Project Director, PDS Projects

JLL; Dubai; On-site; AED 300,000 - 450,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading global real estate firm is seeking a Project Director for a high-rise tower project in Dubai. The ideal candidate will have over 15 years of project management experience, including a deep knowledge of the UAE construction market. This role involves leading a team, managing client relationships, and ensuring project delivery on time and within budget, adhering to the highest standards of quality and safety.

Qualifications

• 15+ years of progressive project management experience in construction.
• 10+ years of experience in the UAE with knowledge of market and regulations.
• Track record of delivering large-scale high-rise projects in PMC role.

Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor the PMC site-based team.
• Maintain strong client relationships through effective communication.
• Oversee project execution from design to completion.
• Handle project financial performance and contractual matters.
• Drive project schedule and manage risks effectively.
• Liaise with stakeholders for coordinated project flow.
• Ensure compliance with specifications and industry standards.

Skills

Leadership

Commercial acumen

Technical expertise

Client-facing skills

Problem-solving

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related discipline

Master's degree preferred

Job description

JLL empowers you to shape a brighter way.

Our people at JLL and JLL Technologies are shaping the future of real estate for a better world by combining world class services, advisory, and technology for our clients. We are committed to hiring the best, most talented people and empowering them to thrive, grow, and find meaningful careers in a place where they belong. Whether you have deep experience in commercial real estate, skilled trades, or technology, or you’re looking to apply your relevant experience to a new industry, join our team as we help shape a brighter way forward.

What this job involves :

We are currently looking for a Project Director in one of our projects in RAK. The Project Director will serve as the principal leader for the project management consultancy (PMC) team holding ultimate responsibility for the successful delivery of a prestigious high‑rise tower and associate buildings and external works. Based full‑time on the project site you will be the primary point of contact for the client, providing strategic leadership to ensure project objectives are met and driving the project to completion on schedule, within budget and to the highest standards of quality and safety.

What your day‑to‑day will look like :

• Lead the entire PMC site‑based team fostering a culture of collaboration, accountability and excellence. Provide clear direction and mentorship to project managers, engineers and commercial staff.
• Act as the senior representative for the consultancy, building and maintaining a strong, trusted relationship with the developer. Ensure client expectations are managed and met through transparent communication and regular high‑level reporting.
• Oversee the project from final design stages through construction, testing, commissioning and handover. Develop and implement the overall project execution plan ensuring strategic goals are aligned.
• Take full responsibility for the project’s financial performance, including budget control, cash‑flow management and profitability. Oversee all contractual matters, including main contract administration, procurement and claims management.
• Drive the master project schedule, ensuring key milestones are achieved. Proactively identify risks, develop robust mitigation strategies and resolve complex issues before they impact delivery.
• Serve as the key liaison between the client, main contractor, design consultants and relevant government authorities to ensure smooth, coordinated project flow.
• Ensure delivery in strict accordance with contract specifications, design drawings and the highest industry standards for quality. Uphold rigorous health, safety and environmental (HSE) protocols across the site.

Required Skills and Experience :

• Minimum 15 years of progressive experience in project management within the construction industry.
• Minimum 10 years of experience in the UAE, demonstrating a deep understanding of the local market, construction practices and regulatory environment.
• Proven, verifiable track record of delivering large‑scale high‑rise tower projects from start to finish in a Project Management Consultancy (PMC) role.
• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Quantity Surveying, Construction Management, Architecture or a related discipline (Master’s preferred).
• Professional certification such as MCIOB, PMP, MRICS or similar industry accreditation highly desirable.

Desired or preferred experience and technical skills :

• Exceptional leadership – ability to command respect and lead large multidisciplinary teams in a high‑pressure environment.
• Commercial acumen – deep understanding of project financials, contract law and risk management.
• Technical expertise – strong knowledge of high‑rise construction methodologies, systems and materials.
• Client‑facing excellence – outstanding communication, negotiation and presentation skills with ability to influence senior stakeholders.
• Problem‑solving – strategic and decisive thinker who can navigate complex challenges effectively.

Location : On‑site Dubai ARE

If this job description resonates with you, we encourage you to apply even if you don’t meet all of the requirements. We’re interested in getting to know you and what you bring to the table!

Equal Employment Opportunity

Jones Lang LaSalle (JLL) is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities.

For candidates in the United States, please see a full copy of our Equal Employment Opportunity policy here.