Director of Infrastructure Operations

KBR; Dubai; Hybrid; AED 440,000 - 588,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading infrastructure company is seeking a Director of Infrastructure Operations to oversee PMO and PMC projects across the Middle East. This role demands a minimum of 15 years in infrastructure project delivery with strong leadership skills, particularly within the UAE and KSA. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in managing large-scale programs and the ability to develop client relationships. Competitive salary and travel included.

Qualifications

• Minimum 15 years of experience in infrastructure project delivery.
• At least 5 years in a senior leadership role.
• Proven track record managing PMO/PMC infrastructure programs.

Responsibilities

• Oversee delivery and governance of PMO/PMC infrastructure projects.
• Identify and pursue new business opportunities.
• Build relationships with key government and private sector clients.

Skills

Strategic Thinking

Leadership

Client Relationship Management

Risk Management

New Business Development

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related field

Master's degree preferred

Tools

PMP certification

RICS certification

Job description

Title: Director of Infrastructure Operations

Job Title: Director of Infrastructure

Location: UAE / KSA (with travel as required)

Reports To: Director of Projects - International

Business Unit: Integrated Solutions International

Job Type: Full-Time, Permanent

Position Summary:

KBR is seeking a dynamic and strategic Director of Infrastructure to lead and grow our portfolio of infrastructure projects across the Middle East. With a primary focus on Program Management Office (PMO) and Project Management Consultancy (PMC) in the UAE and Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). This role will be pivotal in driving operational excellence, ensuring governance, and expanding our market presence. Experience in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region is a plus, reflecting our broader strategic ambitions.

Key Responsibilities:

• Portfolio Leadership: Oversee the successful delivery and governance of a diverse portfolio of PMO/PMC infrastructure projects; accountable for results to the relevant regional operations director.
• Strategic Growth: Work with KBR's business development team to identify and pursue new business opportunities, partnerships, and strategic alliances to expand KBR's infrastructure footprint in the Middle East and potentially APAC.
• Client Engagement: Build and maintain strong relationships with key government and private sector clients, ensuring alignment with their strategic infrastructure goals.
• Operational Excellence: Implement best-in-class project controls, risk management, and quality assurance frameworks across all programs.
• Team Leadership: Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing team of project directors, managers, and technical experts.
• OneKBR Solutions: Develop relationships across the wider KBR to support pursuit and securing broader work scopes leveraging multiple KBR business units.
• Regional Insight: Provide thought leadership on infrastructure trends, regulatory environments, and market dynamics in the Middle East and APAC.
• Compliance & Governance: Ensure all projects comply with local laws, KBR policies, and international standards.

Qualifications & Experience:

Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Construction Management, or related field (Master's preferred).

Minimum 15 years of experience in infrastructure project delivery, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role.

Proven track record managing large-scale PMO/PMC infrastructure programs in the Middle East, preferably in KSA and/or UAE.

Familiarity with APAC infrastructure markets is advantageous.

Strong commercial acumen and experience with contract negotiation and stakeholder management.

PMP, RICS, or equivalent professional certification is desirable.

Key Competencies:

• Strategic Thinking & Vision
• Leadership & Team Development
• Client Relationship Management
• Risk & Financial Management
• Cross-Cultural Communication
• New Business Development & Market Expansion