Associate Director, Aviation Cost & Commercial Strategy

slihrms; Abu Dhabi; On-site; AED 500,000 - 800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Tax-free salary

Life insurance

Medical insurance

Annual leave balance

Company gratuity scheme

Discretionary bonus program

Annual flight contribution

Transportation & housing allowances

Employee Wellbeing Program

Job summary

AtkinsRéalis in the UAE seeks an Associate Director - Cost & Commercial (Aviation) to lead cost advisory for major aviation programmes in the Middle East. You will shape regional cost strategy, governance, bids, and client engagements while guiding a high‑calibre team of cost professionals.

The role requires extensive aviation cost/commerce experience, leadership credentials, and familiarity with international airport operators. MRICS/FRICS/PMP preferred.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Quantity Surveying, or a related field.
• 18+ years of experience in aviation cost and commercial roles.
• At least 5 years in senior leadership.
• Experience with major international airport operators or aviation authorities.
• Proficiency with Primavera, CostX, SAP, and advanced Excel.
• Professional certifications (MRICS/FRICS/PMP/CCP) preferred.
• Experience across multiple geographies, Middle East preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead cost and commercial advisory services for Middle East aviation clients.
• Define regional aviation cost and commercial strategy.
• Act as trusted advisor to senior stakeholders.
• Lead capital expenditure plans and investment strategies.
• Oversee procurement strategies and contract frameworks.
• Mentor a team of cost professionals.
• Develop and maintain an aviation cost benchmark database.
• Drive business development and key account management.
• Prepare strategic bids, proposals, and submissions.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams for integrated solutions.
• Ensure governance, risk management, and financial control.

Skills

Aviation cost advisory

Leadership

Stakeholder management

Cost modelling

Strategic cost leadership

Excel

Data analysis

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering or Quantity Surveying or related field

Tools

Primavera

CostX

SAP

Job description

AtkinsRéalis in the UAE seeks an Associate Director - Cost & Commercial (Aviation) to lead cost advisory for major aviation programmes in the Middle East. You will shape regional cost strategy, governance, bids, and client engagements while guiding a high‑calibre team of cost professionals.

The role requires extensive aviation cost/commerce experience, leadership credentials, and familiarity with international airport operators. MRICS/FRICS/PMP preferred.