Head of Fire & Life Safety

WSP USA; Dubai; On-site; AED 400,000 - 600,000; Full time

Job summary

An international engineering firm is seeking a Head of Fire & Life Safety based in the UAE. This leadership role includes overseeing P&L management, driving strategic growth, and developing innovative service offerings in Fire & Life Safety. Ideal candidates have 15+ years of relevant experience, a degree in Fire Protection Engineering or similar, and deep knowledge of UAE regulations and fire codes. Join to lead a high-performing team and shape the future of Fire & Life Safety across the GCC.

Qualifications

• Minimum 15 years of experience in Fire & Life Safety engineering.
• Strong regional experience in the UAE and KSA.
• Demonstrated ability to engage effectively with clients and authorities.

Responsibilities

• Lead and grow the Fire & Life Safety team across the GCC.
• Oversee P&L management including budgeting and financial performance.
• Develop a boutique, innovation-driven service offering.

Skills

Leadership

Fire Protection Engineering

Stakeholder Management

Communication

Project Management

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Fire Protection Engineering or Mechanical Engineering

Tools

Fire Code

NFPA Codes

IBC

IFC

Saudi Building Code

Job description

What if you could shape a career as unique as you?

At WSP, you can always find opportunities to grow and do what matters to you. Please make the most of our global reach to discover new challenges and chances to work with diverse, talented individuals who will help you expand your horizons.

WSP is looking for a Head of Fire & Life Safety, based in the UAE, to lead and grow our Fire & Life Safety team across the GCC region. This strategic leadership role will drive the service line’s technical excellence, business performance, and regional growth. The successful candidate will oversee the full P&L management of the service line, including forecasting, budgeting, and financial performance, while ensuring the highest standards of quality and technical delivery.

This role will also focus on developing a boutique, innovation-driven service offering — enhancing expertise, digitisation, and expanding into new industries beyond our core multidisciplinary design projects.

• Drive the overall strategic growth and vision of the Fire & Life Safety service line across the GCC region, positioning WSP as a market leader in technical excellence and innovation.
• Develop and execute a comprehensive business plan and strategy, expanding the service offering into new industries and external markets beyond core multidisciplinary design projects.
• Oversee full P&L management, including forecasting, budgeting, financial performance tracking, and resource optimisation to ensure sustainable profitability and growth.
• Champion technical excellence and quality assurance, ensuring all deliverables meet WSP’s global standards and industry best practices.
• Lead, inspire, and develop a high-performing team of Fire & Life Safety professionals, fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, and continuous learning.
• Develop a boutique, high-value service offering, integrating innovation, digital tools, and emerging technologies to enhance client experience and project outcomes.
• Collaborate with regional and global leadership to align Fire & Life Safety initiatives with broader WSP business objectives and market strategies.
• Strengthen client and stakeholder relationships, ensuring service excellence, repeat business, and a reputation for delivering complex projects to the highest standards.
• Identify and pursue new business opportunities, partnerships, and growth areas across the GCC to expand WSP’s market presence.
• Ensure compliance with all regulatory, safety, and quality standards across projects and geographies.
• Minimum 15 years of experience in Fire & Life Safety engineering, covering both design consultancy and construction supervision/commissioning, with proven leadership in a similar organisation.
• Bachelor’s degree in Fire Protection Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related discipline from an accredited institution.
• Strong regional experience in the UAE and KSA, with in-depth knowledge of authority approval processes and regulatory frameworks.
• Expert knowledge and practical application of UAE Fire Code, NFPA Codes, IBC, IFC, and the Saudi Building Code.
• Proven track record in large-scale, mixed-use, master planning, and infrastructure projects, including high-rise and super high-rise developments.
• Thorough understanding of on-site fire system installation, commissioning, and compliance with international and local standards.
• Demonstrated ability to lead multidisciplinary teams, manage complex projects, and engage effectively with clients, authorities, and internal stakeholders.
• Excellent communication, leadership, and stakeholder management skills with the ability to influence at senior levels.

Imagine a better future for you and a better future for us all.

Work on landmark projects around the world and embrace opportunities to make an even bigger impact in the communities you care about. What if you could do the best work of your life and create a legacy for yourself?

With us, you can. Apply today.