Programme Director

Robert Bird Group; Abu Dhabi; On-site; AED 200,000 - 300,000; Full time

Job summary

An international consultancy firm is seeking an experienced Programme Director to lead a High-Speed Rail Programme in the United Arab Emirates. This role entails leading a multidisciplinary team and ensuring effective programme governance and stakeholder engagement. Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s in Engineering and over 20 years of experience in large-scale rail programmes, with at least 5 years in the UAE. Join us to shape the future of sustainable mobility in the region.

Qualifications

• 20+ years of experience in large-scale Rail / Metro / HSR programmes.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in the UAE or Middle East.
• Proven leadership in programme governance.

Responsibilities

• Lead the multidisciplinary programme team across all technical and delivery disciplines.
• Serve as the primary Authorized Representative to the client.
• Ensure programme governance, integration, and risk management.

Skills

Leadership in client-facing delivery

Stakeholder management skills

Governance in programme management

Health and safety advocacy

Sustainability implementation

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or related discipline

Master’s degree (preferred)

Job description

• Our member companies, including SMEC, Robert Bird Group, and Atelier Ten, deliver multidisciplinary excellence across infrastructure, transport, water, and energy sectors.
• We shape cities and communities through intelligent design and sustainable engineering that enhance the quality of life.
• Our work is guided by the principles of ESG, digital delivery, and resilience, ensuring future‑ready infrastructure solutions.

About SJ

Surbana Jurong Group is a diverse collective of problem solvers for the built environment,continually reimagining ways to create a smart and sustainable future.

Headquartered in Singapore, the group has a global talent pool of 16,000 in Surbana Jurong andits member companies AETOS, Atelier Ten, B+H, CHIL, KTP, Prostruct, Robert Bird Group, SAA, and SMEC, based in more than 120 offices in over 40 countries. They include architects,designers, planners, engineers, facilities managers, and other specialists driven by progressive

thinking and creative ideas to shape a better future.

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced Programme Director to lead a major upcoming High‑Speed Rail (HSR) Programme Management & Engineering Consultancy (PMEC) assignment in the United Arab Emirates.

This confidential joint venture will deliver one of the most transformative infrastructure programmes in the region, shaping the future of sustainable mobility and intercity connectivity.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the multidisciplinary programme team across all technical and delivery disciplines.
• Serve as the primary Authorized Representative to the client, driving performance and compliance.
• Ensure programme governance, integration, and risk management at all stages.
• Oversee resource planning, scheduling, cost control, and stakeholder engagement.
• Champion health, safety, sustainability, and innovation excellence.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or related discipline (Master’s preferred).
• 20+ years of experience in large‑scale Rail / Metro / HSR programmes.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in the UAE or Middle East.
• Proven leadership in client‑facing delivery and programme governance.
• Strong interpersonal and stakeholder management skills.

How to Apply

Please submit your application through our official careers portal. Click on the “Apply Now” button below and follow the instructions.

Note: Recruitment for this role is being managed internally. Unsolicited CVs from agencies will not be considered.

At Surbana Jurong, we put talent, hard work, teamwork and a fun workplace together to approach problems and solve them creatively and collaboratively. Join us in making a positive impact on the world!