Project Director - Construction

Big Fish Recruitment; Dubai; On-site; AED 300,000 - 400,000; Full time

Job summary

A reputable contracting division in Dubai is seeking a Senior Project Director to lead the execution of large-scale building and infrastructure projects. The ideal candidate will have over 15 years of experience in construction, particularly with tier-one contractors in the UAE or GCC. Key responsibilities include developing budgets, managing cross-functional teams, and ensuring project compliance. This is a critical leadership position requiring exceptional negotiation and stakeholder management skills.

Qualifications

• 15-20 years of construction experience, including 10 years in a senior role.
• Experience with top-tier main contractors in high-rise or mixed-use developments.
• Knowledge of UAE or GCC construction regulations and methodologies.

Responsibilities

• Oversee project execution from pre-construction to handover.
• Develop project strategies and budgets with stakeholders.
• Ensure compliance with standards and manage relationships.

Skills

Leadership

Stakeholder management

Contract management

Strategic thinking

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Civil Engineering

Master’s Degree (preferred)

Job description

The Role

A leading contracting division of a reputable real estate development group in Dubai is seeking a Project Director to oversee the full life cycle of large-scale building and infrastructure projects. This leadership role requires a highly experienced construction professional with a proven track record of delivering high-value developments with tier-one main contractors in the GCC or internationally. The successful candidate will be responsible for ensuring projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest standards of safety, quality, and client satisfaction. This is a critical hire, and the process will move swiftly for the right candidate.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the overall execution of multiple construction projects from pre-construction through to handover.
• Develop project strategies, budgets, resource plans, and timelines in collaboration with internal and external stakeholders.
• Ensure compliance with contractual obligations, regulatory standards, and internal governance.
• Direct and coordinate cross-functional teams including construction, engineering, planning, procurement, and safety.
• Manage relationships with clients, consultants, subcontractors, and authorities to ensure smooth project delivery.
• Implement project control systems and reporting frameworks to track progress, cost, risks, and change management.
• Conduct regular site inspections and progress reviews to ensure quality, safety, and productivity standards are maintained.
• Provide executive reporting to senior leadership on project milestones, issues, and KPIs.
• Mentor and lead project managers and site teams to drive high-performance delivery culture.

Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, or related field (Master’s Degree is a plus).
• 15-20 years of construction experience, with at least 10 years in a senior leadership role.
• Strong background working with top-tier main contractor firms on high-rise buildings, commercial, or mixed-use developments.
• Proven experience managing large-scale projects in the UAE or GCC region.
• Deep knowledge of local regulations, permitting processes, construction methodologies, and supply chain logistics.
• Exceptional leadership, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment with aggressive delivery schedules.

Key Competencies

• Strategic Thinking & Decision Making
• Leadership & Team Management
• Financial Acumen & Budget Control
• Contract & Claims Management
• Quality, Health, Safety & Environmental (QHSE) Compliance
• Results-Oriented & Client-Focused

About the company

Service Our aim is to provide our clients and candidates with a consistent, quality service that goes beyond the norm, giving them peace of mind and complete trust in our ability to meet their needs. Knowledge Big Fish consultants specialise in their fields and have extensive experience in the region and beyond. We take pride in our knowledge and network and believe that our relationships are built on trust and integrity and are made for the long term. Care At Big Fish, as well as caring for the people we work with, we also care about the world and environment we live in, that's why Big Fish support initiatives that promote human welfare, environmental protection and sustainability.