Head of Planning

KF; Abu Dhabi; On-site; AED 300,000 - 500,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading contracting organization in Abu Dhabi is seeking a Head of Planning to oversee the planning function for large-scale projects. The ideal candidate will have a Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering and at least 20 years of experience in project planning. Proficiency in Primavera P6 and MS Project is essential. Responsibilities include developing project schedules, coordinating with project managers, and ensuring compliance with UAE regulations. This role offers the opportunity to lead a talented planning team and implement advanced planning systems.

Qualifications

• 20 years of experience in project planning including leadership roles.
• Proven track record in managing planning for complex multi-disciplinary projects.
• Expertise in risk analysis, resource leveling, and critical path method (CPM).

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain project schedules using planning software.
• Monitor progress and update schedules regularly.
• Coordinate with project managers and stakeholders.

Skills

Leadership

Analytical skills

Communication

Problem-solving

Education

Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering or related field

Tools

Primavera P6

MS Project

Job description

About the Client

Our client is a leading contracting organization headquartered in Abu Dhabi delivering large-scale civil and infrastructure projects across the UAE. Operating under a global holding structure the company is recognized for its financial discipline transparency and strong project governance.

Role Overview

The Head of Planning will be responsible for leading the planning function to ensure accurate scheduling resource allocation and timely project delivery. This role requires a strategic thinker who can implement advanced planning systems and optimize project timelines.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain project schedules using planning software.
• Monitor progress and update schedules regularly.
• Identify risks and propose mitigation strategies.
• Coordinate with project managers and stakeholders.
• Implement digital planning tools and automation.
• Provide reports and insights to senior management.
• Lead the planning team ensuring accurate resource allocation and workload forecasting.
• Support tendering and bid preparation with time schedules and planning input.
• Ensure compliance with company standards and UAE regulatory requirements.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives in planning and scheduling processes.
• Collaborate with procurement and contract teams to align schedules with material and contractual timelines.

Job Requirements

• Bachelors degree in Civil Engineering or related field.
• 20 years of experience in project planning including leadership roles.
• Proficiency in Primavera P6 and MS Project.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management abilities.
• Proven track record in managing planning for complex multi-disciplinary projects.
• Ability to lead and mentor a team of planners and schedulers.
• Expertise in risk analysis resource leveling and critical path method (CPM).
• Familiarity with digital transformation in planning and reporting tools.

Korn Ferry shall provide equal employment opportunity to all qualified candidates and will refer candidates without regard to race color religion national origin sex age disability veteran status or any other legally protected basis.

Required Experience

Director