Deputy Project Director

Taj Dhabi; Riyadh; On-site; SAR 300,000 - 400,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading construction firm in Saudi Arabia is looking for a Deputy Project Director to assist in overseeing large-scale construction projects. This role demands exceptional leadership and technical skills along with at least 15 years of experience in the construction industry. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in project management and a thorough understanding of local regulations. Excellent communication and negotiation skills are essential for stakeholder management. This position offers the opportunity to make a significant impact in the construction landscape of Saudi Arabia.

Qualifications

• Minimum 15 years in the construction industry.
• At least 5 years in senior project management roles.
• Experience with mega or giga projects in Saudi Arabia or the GCC.

Responsibilities

• Support the Project Director in leading project teams.
• Manage project budgets and financial reporting.
• Ensure compliance with local regulations and safety standards.

Skills

Leadership

Project Management

Stakeholder Management

Communication

Problem-Solving

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering

Master’s degree preferred

Tools

PMP certification

FIDIC contract knowledge

Job description

Job Purpose

The Deputy Project Director will assist the Project Director in managing and delivering large-scale construction projects in Saudi Arabia, ensuring timely completion, adherence to quality standards, compliance with local regulations, and alignment with the company’s strategic objectives. The role requires leadership, technical expertise, stakeholder management, and strong organizational skills to oversee all phases of project execution.

Key Responsibilities

• Project Leadership & Execution
  • Support the Project Director in leading multi-disciplinary project teams to deliver complex construction projects.
  • Oversee project planning, scheduling, budgeting, and resource allocation to ensure successful project delivery.
  • Monitor construction progress, resolve technical issues, and ensure compliance with contractual and regulatory requirements.
  • Implement project management best practices, policies, and procedures aligned with Saudi building codes and international standards.
• Financial & Contract Management
  • Assist in managing project budgets, cost controls, and financial reporting.
  • Review and approve variations, claims, and change orders.
  • Support contract negotiations with contractors, consultants, and vendors.
• Stakeholder Management
  • Act as a key liaison between the Project Director, senior management, government authorities, consultants, and contractors.
  • Ensure clear communication and alignment among stakeholders on project objectives, risks, and progress.
  • Represent the project in client and regulatory meetings when required.
• Risk & Compliance
  • Identify and mitigate project risks proactively.
  • Ensure compliance with Saudi labor laws, health and safety regulations, and environmental standards.
  • Enforce safety and quality assurance programs across the project.
• Team Development
  • Mentor, guide, and support project managers, engineers, and staff.
  • Promote a culture of teamwork, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• Skills
  • Qualifications & Requirements
  • Education: Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, Architecture, or related field (Master’s degree preferred).
  • Experience: Minimum 15 years in the construction industry, with at least 5 years in senior project management roles handling mega or giga projects in Saudi Arabia or the GCC.
  • Technical Skills
  • Strong knowledge of project management methodologies (PMP, PMI, or equivalent certification preferred).
  • Familiarity with Saudi Building Codes, local authority regulations, and Vision 2030-related projects.
  • Expertise in FIDIC contracts, cost management, and claims handling.
  • Soft Skills
  • Excellent leadership, communication, and negotiation skills.
  • Strong problem-solving and decision-making capabilities.
  • Ability to manage multicultural teams and stakeholders.
  • Languages: Fluent in English (Arabic proficiency preferred).
• Key Competencies
  • Strategic planning and execution
  • Budget and cost control
  • Contract and claims management
  • Stakeholder and government relations
  • Leadership and team management
  • Risk assessment and mitigation
  • Quality, safety, and compliance oversight