Strategy & Transformation Lead - Infrastructure Advisory

Jacobs Engineering Group Inc; United Arab Emirates; On-site; AED 400,000 - 600,000; Full time

Job summary

A global engineering consultancy in the United Arab Emirates is seeking an experienced leader to oversee economic strategies and drive business development within infrastructure and utility sectors. This role requires over 15 years of advisory experience, a strong background in applied economics, and exceptional leadership skills. The successful candidate will manage teams while fostering client relationships and developing transformative strategies that ensure sustainability and effectiveness.

Benefits

Flexible working arrangements

Global giving and volunteering programme

Positive mental health initiatives

Qualifications

• 15+ years of consulting or advisory experience in infrastructure, utilities, or government sectors.
• Strong understanding of applied economics and its application to policy.
• Demonstrated success in large-scale strategy and organisational transformation.

Responsibilities

• Oversee economic strategies and policy appraisals for clients.
• Lead proposal development and client pursuits.
• Mentor teams of economists and consultants.

Skills

Economic model interpretation

Client relationship management

Strategic thinking

Communication skills

Leadership

Education

Degree in Economics or related discipline

Job description

At Jacobs, we're challenging today to reinvent tomorrow by solving the world's most critical problems for thriving cities, resilient environments, mission‑critical outcomes, operational advancement, scientific discovery and cutting‑edge manufacturing, turning abstract ideas into realities that transform the world for good.

Your Impact

At Jacobs, we'll inspire and empower you to deliver your best work so you can evolve, grow and succeed – today and into tomorrow. Working at Jacobs offers an exciting range of opportunities to develop your career within a supportive and diverse team who always strive to do the right thing for our people, clients and communities.

People are Jacobs’ greatest asset, and we offer a competitive package to retain and attract the best talent.

What You’ll Do

Lead Strategy, Economic, and Transformation Engagements

• Oversee the development of economic strategies, investment frameworks, and policy appraisals for infrastructure and utility clients.
• Direct the preparation and peer review of business cases, cost–benefit analyses, and economic impact assessments, ensuring robust, defensible recommendations.
• Translate economic and financial insights into strategic narratives and transformation plans that align with client objectives.
• Design and implement operating models, organisational structures, and capability development programs that enable clients to deliver more efficiently and effectively.
• Advise client executives on the link between economic value, operational performance, and long‑term sustainability.
• Act as a trusted partner, facilitating strategic discussions and supporting implementation of change programs.

Drive Business Development and Market Growth

• Identify and shape opportunities across infrastructure, utilities, and government sectors.
• Lead proposal development, solution design, and client pursuits in partnership with Jacobs’ Advisory and Operations teams.
• Build lasting client relationships that drive repeat engagements and sustainable growth.
• Contribute to Jacobs’ visibility through publications, speaking engagements, and thought leadership on infrastructure economics and transformation.

Lead and Develop People

• Manage and mentor teams of economists, strategists, and consultants, fostering a high‑performing, collaborative culture.
• Provide clear direction, feedback, and professional development pathways for emerging leaders.
• Strengthen internal capability by advancing Jacobs’ methodologies and knowledge base in economics and transformation.

Here’s What You’ll Need

• Degree in Economics or a closely related discipline.
• 15+ years of consulting or advisory experience within infrastructure, utilities, or government sectors.
• Strong understanding of applied economics – able to interpret economic models and guide their application to policy, investment, and transformation decisions.
• Demonstrated success leading large‑scale strategy, operating model, and organisational transformation programmes.
• Proven business development experience – from client relationship management to proposal leadership.
• Exceptional communication and influencing skills, with credibility at executive and ministerial levels.
• Collaborative, pragmatic, and passionate about driving measurable impact through infrastructure transformation.

Benefits and Culture

From our inclusive employee networks to our positive mental health champions – we are committed to driving a culture of caring where you can be you. Joining Jacobs not only connects you locally but globally, and together, our diverse perspectives and unique backgrounds power our collective strength. We collaborate and share, supporting one another to succeed. With safety and flexibility always top of mind, we have gone beyond traditional ways of working so you have the support, means and space to maximise your potential.

You will uncover flexible working arrangements, benefits, and opportunities to do good too – from participating in our global giving and volunteering programme, to exploring new and inventive ways to help our clients make the world a better place.

Application Experience

Your application experience is important to us, and we’re keen to adapt to make every interaction even better. If you require further support or reasonable adjustments with regards to the recruitment process (for example, you require the application form in a different format), please contact the team via Careers Support.

Locations

Bur Dubai, United Arab Emirates