Operations Director / Deputy Programme Director

Robert Bird Group; Riyadh; On-site; SAR 374,000 - 563,000; Full time

Job summary

A global consultancy firm is seeking an experienced Operations Director/Deputy Programme Director to lead the operational and financial execution of large-scale aviation programs. The ideal candidate will have over 15 years of experience in highly regulated industries, such as aviation or aerospace. This role involves P&L ownership, financial governance, and management of program operations and controls. Strong leadership and experience in complex project environments are essential for success in this role.

Qualifications

• 15+ years of experience in aviation, aerospace, or regulated industry.
• Extensive experience in program operations and large-scale project execution.
• Proven track record in financial management for major programs.

Responsibilities

• Lead end-to-end delivery of major aviation programs.
• Establish and manage program commercial management systems.
• Oversee project financial governance and cost control.

Skills

Program operations management

Commercial management

Financial governance

P&L ownership

Cost control

Risk management

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Business, Finance, or related field

Master’s degree (preferred)

PMP, PgMP, MBA, or equivalent certifications

Job description

About SJ

Surbana Jurong Group is a diverse collective of problem solvers for the built environment, continually reimagining ways to create a smart and sustainable future.

Our technical experts deliver sustainable solutions that cover the entire project life cycle from planning and design, through to delivery and management, as well as a full suite of multidisciplinary consultancy services across a diverse range of sectors including transportation, water, aviation, healthcare, hospitality and renewables.

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced Operations Director/Deputy Programme Director to support and drive the operational, financial, and commercial execution of large-scale programs. This senior role partners closely with the Program Director and executive stakeholders to ensure robust program controls, financial governance, and operational excellence across complex, multi-year initiatives.

This position is ideal for a leader with deep expertise in program operations, commercial management, and P&L ownership within highly regulated environments.

Key Responsibilities

• Act as Deputy to the Programme Director, supporting end-to-end delivery of major aviation programs
• Lead program operations and controls, including planning, scheduling, performance tracking, and governance
• Establish and manage program commercial management systems for large and complex projects
• Own P&L performance, ensuring effective cost control, margin management, and financial accountability
• Lead project budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting, ensuring accuracy and transparency
• Implement and maintain strong financial governance, cost control, and change management processes
• Oversee project resourcing strategies, including workforce planning and utilization
• Identify operational and financial risks and lead mitigation and recovery actions
• Ensure compliance with internal policies, contractual obligations, and aviation regulatory requirements

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Business, Finance, or a related field (Master’s preferred)
• Relevant program, project, or financial management certifications (PMP, PgMP, MBA, or equivalent) desirable
• 15+ years of experience in aviation, aerospace, or a similarly complex, regulated industry
• Extensive experience in program operations, program controls, and large-scale project execution
• Proven track record establishing and managing commercial and financial management systems for major programs
• Strong P&L ownership, with demonstrated success in cost control, forecasting, and margin delivery
• Advanced expertise in project budgeting, financial reporting, and governance
• High level of commercial acumen, including contract interpretation and financial risk management
• Experience working alongside senior program leadership and executive stakeholders
• Ability to operate effectively in complex, matrixed, and global environments

Why Join Us?

At Surbana Jurong, we bring together talent, teamwork, innovation, and a dynamic workplace to solve complex challenges creatively and collaboratively. Be part of a global multidisciplinary consultancy where your ideas and expertise are valued and rewarded.

All recruitment activities must go through our recruitment function. At this time, this role does not require agency support.

Please do not forward résumés directly to SJ Group employees or managers. We do not accept unsolicited résumés and are not responsible for any fees associated with them.

Only successful candidates will be contacted.

At Surbana Jurong, we put talent, hard work, teamwork and a fun workplace together to approach problems and solve them creatively and collaboratively. Join us in making a positive impact on the world!