Programme Director – Transportation Infrastructure

Snc-Lavalin; Abu Dhabi; On-site; AED 200,000 - 300,000; Full time

Job summary

A global engineering consultancy is seeking a Programme Director to lead major transportation infrastructure projects in Abu Dhabi. The ideal candidate will have over 20 years of experience in leading complex infrastructural programmes and a strong background in Rail Systems, Transport Technologies, or Airport Infrastructure. Key responsibilities include ensuring project success and promoting safe and sustainable practices.

Benefits

Tax-free salary

Comprehensive medical insurance

Paid annual leave

Relocation assistance

Discretionary bonus program

Qualifications

• 20+ years of experience delivering major infrastructure programmes.
• Proven ability to lead mega programmes with accountability for delivery.
• Experience in contract negotiation and financial oversight.

Responsibilities

• Lead the delivery of major transportation infrastructure programmes.
• Manage strategic client relationships and ensure programme success.
• Promote safety, sustainability, and inclusive leadership.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic Thinking

Client Engagement

Commercial Acumen

Communication

Education

Degree in Engineering or Construction

Professional membership (FICE, MICE, etc.)

Job description

Overview

Programme Director – Transportation Infrastructure. Location: Abu Dhabi, AE – Trade Centre Building. Time type: Full time. Posted: Yesterday. End date to apply: September 30, 2025. Job requisition ID: R-138324.

Job Description

AtkinsRéalis seeks a highly accomplished Programme Director to lead the delivery of major transportation infrastructure programmes across the Middle East. This role is suited to a senior leader with deep expertise in Rail, Transport Systems, or Airport Infrastructure, and a proven track record of managing complex, multibillion programmes in dynamic, high-profile environments. You will drive delivery excellence, manage strategic client relationships, and ensure programmes are delivered on time, on budget, and in alignment with national infrastructure goals and client expectations. A strong commitment to HSQE and staff wellbeing is essential, ensuring safe, sustainable, and inclusive programme environments.

About AtkinsRéalis

Created by the integration of long-standing organisations dating back to 1911, AtkinsRéalis is a world-class engineering services and nuclear company dedicated to engineering a better future for our planet and its people. We deliver end-to-end services across the whole life cycle of an asset, including consulting, advisory, environmental services, intelligent networks & cybersecurity, design & engineering, procurement, project & construction management, operations & maintenance, decommissioning and capital. We serve strategic sectors such as Engineering Services, Nuclear and Capital, with capabilities deployed locally to clients.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership across the full programme lifecycle — from concept development and mobilisation through to delivery, commissioning, and benefits realization.
• Own and manage programme-level P&L, ensuring financial performance, cost control, and commercial success.
• Act as the senior interface with clients, sitting on client boards and steering committees to ensure alignment, confidence, and strategic partnership.
• Lead large, multidisciplinary teams across engineering, commercial, planning, and delivery functions, fostering a high-performance culture.
• Drive delivery excellence, ensuring programmes meet all technical, contractual, and operational requirements.
• Ensure robust governance, risk management, and change control processes are in place and adhered to.
• Champion innovation, digital transformation, and modern delivery methodologies to drive efficiency and outcomes.
• Ensure programmes are delivered on time, on budget, and in line with agreed benefits, KPIs, and client expectations.
• Promote a culture of safety, sustainability, and inclusive leadership across all programme environments, with emphasis on HSQE compliance and continuous improvement.
• Support staff wellbeing, engagement, and development, ensuring a positive and resilient working environment.
• Represent the organisation in strategic forums, bid interviews, and industry engagements, contributing to thought leadership and market positioning.

Experience & Qualifications

• Degree-qualified in Engineering or Construction (Master’s degree preferred) with professional membership (e.g., FICE, MICE, FAPM, MAPM) preferred.
• 20+ years of experience delivering major infrastructure programmes with deep expertise in one or more areas: Rail Systems (signalling, rolling stock, systems integration), Transport Technologies (ITS, smart mobility, digital platforms), and Airport Infrastructure (terminal development, airside systems, aviation operations).
• Proven ability to lead mega programmes with full accountability for delivery, commercial performance, and client satisfaction.
• Strong commercial acumen, with experience in contract negotiation, dispute resolution, and financial oversight.
• Demonstrated success in client engagement, stakeholder management, and securing repeat and new business.
• Experience in the Middle East or other high-growth, fast-paced markets is highly desirable.
• Exceptional communication, leadership, and strategic thinking skills.
• Demonstrated leadership in HSQE, with a track record of embedding safety, quality, and environmental responsibility into programme culture.
• Commitment to staff wellbeing, inclusive leadership, and team development.

Benefits & Terms

• Tax-free salary.
• Life insurance coverage.
• Comprehensive medical insurance coverage.
• Paid annual leave.
• Company gratuity scheme.
• Discretionary bonus program.
• Annual flight contribution.
• Relocation assistance.
• Transportation & housing allowances.
• Employee Wellbeing Program: 24/7 access to specialists in finance, legal matters, family care, health, fitness, and nutrition.

EEO & Inclusion

AtkinsRéalis is committed to eliminating discrimination and encouraging diversity amongst our workforce. We aim to provide quality and fairness for all job applicants and employees and not to discriminate on grounds of gender, marital status, age, race, ethnic origin, religious conviction, or disablement. We oppose all forms of unlawful treatment and discrimination. We are committed to a policy of treating all employees and job applications equally.