Associate Director - Commercial

AECOM; Abu Dhabi; On-site; AED 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Job summary

AECOM in Abu Dhabi seeks an experienced Associate Director of Commercial for a major rail project. You will shape commercial strategy, oversee execution, and lead a dynamic team to ensure profitability, schedule and client satisfaction.

You will manage contracts, vendor relations and risk, while aligning with regulatory requirements and project goals, delivering value across all phases of design and construction.

Qualifications

• 15+ years in commercial management, PM, or construction engineering in infra/transport.
• Proven experience in commercial strategy development and business development.
• Strong financial acumen with budgets and P&L responsibilities.
• Excellent contract negotiation and leadership of cross-functional teams.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute commercial strategies to optimize revenue and drive profitability.
• Oversee project administration, including financial management and client satisfaction.
• Lead planning, design and construction management activities across all project phases.
• Maintain budget management and cost control to ensure profitability.
• Manage contracts, vendor relationships and supplier agreements.

Skills

Strategic leadership

Budget management

Contract negotiation

Stakeholder management

English proficiency

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering/Business/PM

PM/PRINCE2/PMP certification

Job description

Company Description

Work with Us. Change the World.

At AECOM, we're delivering a better world. Whether improving your commute, keeping the lights on, providing access to clean water, or transforming skylines, our work helps people and communities thrive. We are the world's trusted infrastructure consulting firm, partnering with clients to solve the world’s most complex challenges and build legacies for future generations.

There has never been a better time to be at AECOM. With accelerating infrastructure investment worldwide, our services are in great demand. We invite you to bring your bold ideas and big dreams and become part of a global team of over 50,000 planners, designers, engineers, scientists, digital innovators, program and construction managers and other professionals delivering projects that create a positive and tangible impact around the world. We're one global team driven by our common purpose to deliver a better world. Join us.

Job Description

We are seeking an experienced and visionary Associate Director of Commercial for our Rail project in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. In this pivotal role, you will drive commercial strategy, oversee project execution, and lead a dynamic team to deliver exceptional results. You will be instrumental in managing the commercial aspects of this transformative infrastructure initiative while ensuring alignment with organizational goals and client expectations. This position offers the opportunity to make a significant impact on a world-class transportation project while advancing your career in a collaborative and innovative environment.

• Develop and execute comprehensive commercial strategies that optimize revenue, manage costs, and drive profitability across all project phases
• Provide strategic guidance and mentorship to team members within established organizational policies, fostering a culture of excellence and continuous improvement
• Establish and implement commercial procedures and protocols that enhance operational efficiency and support organizational objectives
• Analyze complex commercial data and market trends to inform decision-making and identify opportunities for business growth and optimization
• Manage contract negotiations, vendor relationships, and supplier agreements to ensure favorable terms and sustained value delivery
• Oversee project administration throughout the construction cycle, including technical coordination, financial management, and client satisfaction initiatives
• Direct the planning, design, and construction management activities, ensuring seamless coordination and execution of all project phases
• Manage construction engineering functions to guarantee strict adherence to engineering specifications, plans, and regulatory requirements
• Maintain accountability for budget management, financial forecasting, and cost control measures to ensure project profitability
• Collaborate as an integral member of the site construction team, working in alignment with project execution plans and organizational procedures
• Identify and mitigate commercial and operational risks while maintaining transparency with stakeholders
• Ensure compliance with UAE regulations, industry standards, and project-specific requirements
• Foster collaborative relationships with internal teams, clients, and external partners to achieve shared objectives
• Monitor key performance indicators and project metrics to drive continuous improvement and strategic decision-making

Qualifications

Required Skills and Experience

• Minimum 15+ years of progressive experience in commercial management, project management, or construction engineering within infrastructure or transportation sectors
• Proven expertise in commercial strategy development and business development
• Strong financial acumen with demonstrated experience managing budgets and P&L responsibilities
• Advanced project management skills with experience overseeing large-scale, complex projects from conception through completion
• Excellent contract negotiation and commercial agreement management capabilities
• Demonstrated leadership experience managing and mentoring cross-functional teams
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to evaluate diverse factors and market trends
• Proficiency in stakeholder management and client relationship development
• Knowledge of construction engineering principles, specifications, and industry best practices
• Experience with risk management and regulatory compliance in infrastructure projects
• Exceptional organizational and time management skills
• Strong written and verbal communication abilities in English

Preferred Skills and Experience

• Experience with high-speed rail, rail infrastructure, or similar transportation projects
• Familiarity with UAE regulatory environment and local business practices
• Project management certification (PMP, PRINCE2, or equivalent)
• Experience with construction management software and project management toolsBackground in vendor and supplier management
• Knowledge of sustainable and innovative construction methodologies

Education and Certifications

• Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Business Administration, Project Management, or related field
• Professional certifications in project management or commercial management are advantageous

Domain Expertise

• Deep understanding of high-speed rail project requirements, technical specifications, and operational considerations
• Knowledge of infrastructure development, construction cycles, and engineering standards
• Familiarity with commercial frameworks specific to large-scale transportation projects

Additional Information

At AECOM, we are committed to maintaining a secure and trustworthy recruitment process and take any fraudulent hiring activity seriously. To support this commitment, all newly hired employees are required to attend an in-person Day 1 onboarding at an AECOM office location as a condition of employment.

About AECOM

AECOM is proud to offer comprehensive benefits to meet the diverse needs of our employees. Depending on your employment status, AECOM benefits may include medical, dental, vision, life, AD&D, disability benefits, paid time off, leaves of absences, voluntary benefits, perks, flexible work options, well-being resources, employee assistance program, business travel insurance, service recognition awards, retirement savings plan, and employee stock purchase plan. AECOM is the global infrastructure leader, committed to delivering a better world. As a trusted professional services firm powered by deep technical abilities, we solve our clients’ complex challenges in water, environment, energy, transportation and buildings. Our teams partner with public- and private-sector clients to create innovative, sustainable and resilient solutions throughout the project lifecycle – from advisory, planning, design and engineering to program and construction management. AECOM is a Fortune 500 firm that had revenue of $16.1 billion in fiscal year 2025. Learn more at aecom.com.

What makes AECOM a great place to work

You will be part of a global team that champions your growth and career ambitions. Work on groundbreaking projects - both in your local community and on a global scale - that are transforming our industry and shaping the future. With cutting-edge technology and a network of experts, you’ll have the resources to make a real impact. Our award-winning training and development programs are designed to expand your technical expertise and leadership skills, helping you build the career you’ve always envisioned. Here, you’ll find a welcoming workplace built on respect, collaboration and community - where you have the freedom to grow in a world of opportunity.

As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we believe in your potential and are here to help you achieve it. All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.