Deputy Director Programmes, Kuwait

NATS; Kuwait City; On-site; KWD 75,000 - 115,000; Full time

Job summary

NATS seeks a Deputy Director - Programmes to lead multi-disciplinary transformation initiatives, establish a PMO, and ensure delivery on time, within scope and budget. You will manage budgets, risk, and stakeholder engagement while guiding senior leadership on strategic priorities.

You will influence cross-functional teams across technical and business streams, foster continuous improvement, and ensure alignment with organizational goals in a fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

• Proven delivery of large-scale technical and business transformation programs.
• 10+ years in project management with multi-disciplinary projects.
• Middle East delivery experience preferred.
• Strong leadership and strategic thinking.

Responsibilities

• Oversee delivery of technical and business transformation activities.
• Lead cross-functional teams; align initiatives with goals.
• Establish PMO, processes, systems and governance.
• Manage budgets, timelines and resources.
• Monitor risks; implement mitigation plans.
• Engage stakeholders with clear reporting and updates.
• Define goals, priorities and success metrics with leadership.
• Drive continuous process improvements and compliance.

Skills

PMO leadership

Transformation delivery

Cross-functional leadership

Stakeholder management

Budget management

Change management

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in a related field

Tools

Project management tools

MS Project/Primavera

Job description

This role is accountable for overseeing the delivery of technical and business transformation activities, playing a pivotal role in ensuring the successful execution of strategic initiatives. Leading cross-functional teams, managing complex projects, and aligning programme objectives with organizational goals, the Deputy Director - Programmes is responsible for ensuring that all projects are completed on time, within scope, and on budget.

Key Accountabilities

• Establishment of a new Project Management Office (PMO), with accountability for implementing all associated processes, systems and tools.
• Lead the planning, execution, and delivery of technical and business transformation programmes, ensuring alignment with strategic objectives.
• Oversee the development and implementation of project plans, including timelines, milestones, and resource allocation.
• Manage cross-functional teams, providing direction, support, and coaching to ensure high performance and successful project outcomes.
• Monitor programme progress and performance, identifying risks and implementing mitigation strategies to address potential issues.
• Ensure effective communication and stakeholder engagement throughout the project lifecycle, including regular status updates and reporting.
• Collaborate with senior leadership to define programme goals, priorities, and success metrics, ensuring alignment with organizational strategy.
• Optimize processes and methodologies to improve efficiency, quality, and delivery of transformation initiatives.
• Manage programme budgets, ensuring financial accountability and adherence to approved funding.
• Foster a culture of innovation and continuous improvement, encouraging teams to identify and implement best practices.
• Ensure compliance with relevant regulations, standards, and organizational policies throughout the programme's execution.
• Evaluate the impact of transformation activities, providing insights and recommendations for future initiatives.

Qualifications, Skills and Personal Attributes

• Proven experience in leading and delivering large-scale technical and business transformation programs.
• Minimum of 10 years' experience in project management, with a strong track record of managing complex, multi-disciplinary projects.
• Middle East delivery experience (preferable).
• Proficient in project management tools and software.
• Strong understanding of change management principles and methodologies.
• Knowledge of industry standards and best practices in program and project management.
• Exceptional leadership skills with the ability to inspire and motivate cross-functional teams.
• Strong strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities.
• Excellent stakeholder management skills, with the ability to communicate effectively at all levels of the organization.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Results-oriented with a strong focus on delivering high-quality outcomes.
• Adaptable and resilient, with the ability to thrive in a fast-paced and dynamic environment.
• High level of integrity and professionalism.
• Strong cultural awareness and sensitivity, particularly in the context of the Middle East.