Executive Director jobs in United Arab Emirates

Linum Consult’s client is an engineering and contracting firm who are seeking a highly experienced Arabic-speaking Executive Director/General Manager to establish, grow, and lead their business in Abu Dhabi. This is a senior leadership role suited for a dynamic professional with proven expertise in setting up and managing large-scale construction businesses in the UAE.

As the Executive Director/General Manager, you will be responsible for establishing, growing, and leading the company’s operations in Abu Dhabi. You will play a pivotal role in driving strategic direction, operational excellence, and sustainable business development.

• Defining and executing the company’s market-entry and growth strategy in Abu Dhabi
• Developing and delivering annual business plans, budgets, and KPIs
• Identifying and securing new business opportunities, partnerships, and markets
• Representing the company with clients, investors, and government authorities at the highest level
• Leading the execution of all projects to ensure delivery on time, within budget, and at the highest standards of quality
• Approving project plans, schedules, and allocation of resources
• Ensuring strict compliance with contractual obligations, regulations, and safety standards
• Resolving complex operational, engineering, and execution challenges
• Overseeing P&L, cash flow, and the overall financial health of the business
• Approving major bids, tenders, and contracts
• Monitoring the profitability and driving cost efficiency across all projects
• Managing high-level disputes, claims, and arbitration when necessary
• Leading, mentoring, and inspiring senior management teams across departments
• Overseeing recruitment and workforce development to build a strong local presence
• Fostering a high-performance culture driven by accountability, safety, and excellence
• Establishing and enforcing robust risk management frameworks
• Ensuring full compliance with HSE standards, ISO certifications, and local regulations
• Championing continuous improvement, quality assurance, and operational excellence

• Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, Architecture, or a related field
• Master’s degree in Business Administration and/or Project Management is an advantage
• Professional certifications (PMP, RICS, Chartered Engineer, Lean Construction) are a plus
• 10–20 years of experience in the construction/contracting sector, including at least 5–7 years in a senior management role
• Strong understanding of construction laws, regulations, building codes, safety standards, and contractual frameworks (FIDIC, EPC, turnkey, etc.)
• Proven experience in building and developing a business for an engineering/contracting firm in Abu Dhabi
• Must be fluent in English and Arabic
• Strong leadership and people management capabilities
• Expertise in budgeting, financial planning, and cost control
• Advanced contract negotiation and risk management skills
• Strategic mindset with business development and market-entry acumen
• Excellent stakeholder communication (clients, consultants, subcontractors, and authorities)
• Proficiency in ERP systems and project management tools (Primavera P6, MS Project)