Project Director / Associate Director

AECOM; Dubai; On-site; AED 440,000 - 588,000; Full time

Job summary

A global infrastructure leader in Dubai is seeking an Associate Director to oversee significant projects. The role involves managing the project lifecycle, liaising with clients and contractors, and ensuring compliance with quality standards. Candidates should have a Bachelor's degree in a relevant field and extensive experience of 15-20 years, including 8-10 years in the UAE or GCC region.

Benefits

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

Paid time off

Flexible work options

Qualifications

• 15 to 20 years of experience in project management.
• 8 to 10 years of experience in UAE / GCC.
• Strong skills in budgeting, procurement, and compliance.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage full project lifecycle.
• Act as main liaison between clients, consultants, and contractors.
• Ensure compliance with project scope, schedule, budget, and quality standards.

Skills

Project management

Client relations

Strong commercial skills

Contractual skills

Education

Bachelor of Science in Quantity Surveying Law and/or Engineering

MRICS MCIARB or equivalent accreditation

Job description

Job Summary

AECOM is seeking to hire an Associate Director with previous experience as a Project Director leading on a large project including coordination for multi-disciplinary sets of consultants during the Pre Contract period as well as leading the project into the Post Contract period on site. Acting as the key project lead and liaison with the Client. Very strong commercial and contractual skills are a must.

Project Responsibilities

• Lead and manage full project lifecycle: budgeting procurement execution and closeout
• Act as main liaison between AECOM clients consultants and contractors
• Oversee internal teams and coordinate all design/construction management activities
• Serve as FIDIC Engineer / Contract Administrator during post-contract phase
• Ensure compliance with project scope schedule budget and quality standards
• Chair key meetings and develop solutions to project challenges
• Lead onsite construction execution per company procedures
• Maintain strong commercial contractual and client-focused oversight

Core Accountabilities

• Drive performance and growth across assigned market sector
• Lead client engagement and secure new/repeat business
• Manage complex deliverables across multiple projects within budget
• Oversee internal resources and talent development
• Ensure financial targets timely cash collection and QA compliance
• Lead proposals bids and project delivery systems (APIC Workbench)
• Present deliverables and benchmark data to clients

Key Behaviors

Develop & Lead Others

• Inspire and coach teams; promote a respectful inclusive environment
• Communicate clearly and encourage open dialogue
• Champion safety and ethical standards

Grow the Business

• Foster collaboration and innovation
• Build strong client relationships and win new business

Deliver Results

• Set high standards; act decisively with facts
• Lead through change with resilience and accountability

  Qualifications

  Minimum Requirements

  • Bachelor of Science in Quantity Surveying Law and/or Engineering (or similar) from an accredited internationally recognized institution or University.
  • MRICS MCIARB or equivalent accreditation
  • Years of experience: 15 to 20 years
  • Years of UAE / GCC experience: 8 to10 years

  Additional Information

  About AECOM

  AECOM is proud to offer comprehensive benefits to meet the diverse needs of our employees. Depending on your employment status AECOM benefits may include medical dental vision life AD&D disability benefits paid time off leaves of absences voluntary benefits perks flexible work optionswell-being resources employee assistance program business travel insurance service recognition awards retirement savings plan and employee stock purchase plan.

  AECOM is the global infrastructure leader committed to delivering a better world. As a trusted professional services firm powered by deep technical abilities we solve our clients complex challenges in water environment energy transportation and buildings. Our teams partner with public- and private-sector clients to create innovative sustainable and resilient solutions throughout the project lifecycle from advisory planning design and engineering to program and construction management. AECOM is a Fortune 500 firm that had revenue of $16.1 billion in fiscal year 2024. Learn more at .

  What makes AECOM a great place to work

  You will be part of a global team that champions your growth and career ambitions. Work on groundbreaking projects - both in your local community and on a global scale - that are transforming our industry and shaping the future. With cutting-edge technology and a network of experts youll have the resources to make a real impact. Our award-winning training and development programs are designed to expand your technical expertise and leadership skills helping you build the career youve always envisioned. Here youll find a welcoming workplace built on respect collaboration and community - where you have the freedom to grow in a world of opportunity.

  As an Equal Opportunity Employer we believe in your potential and are here to help you achieve it. All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

  Remote Work

  No

  Employment Type

  Contract