Strategic Program Director: Global Delivery Lead

AECO; Houston (TX); Hybrid; USD 180,000 - 280,000; Full time

Job summary

AECOM is seeking a Program Director to lead a large, complex program, setting vision, strategy and governance across delivery streams. You will drive innovation and continuous improvement while ensuring safety, quality and alignment with client objectives and organizational priorities.

The role supports succession planning and leadership readiness, with initial location flexibility and a requirement for eventual program-site relocation as projects are identified and awarded.

Qualifications

• 20+ years of experience with leadership on large or complex programs.
• Ability to lead multidisciplinary teams and manage high‑value, multi‑stakeholder environments.
• Professional certification (PgMP, APM‑RPP, CCM or equivalent) preferred but not essential.
• Chartered/licensed professional status may be required depending on region.

Responsibilities

• Provide senior leadership and strategic direction for the program, aligning with client expectations and regulatory requirements.
• Establish and maintain the program governance framework for decision-making and performance oversight.
• Direct senior delivery leaders responsible for technical, commercial, stakeholder, and operational aspects of the program.
• Shape initiation and delivery strategies, mobilization plans, and systems and processes for successful execution.
• Lead engagement with clients, partners, stakeholders, and senior internal leadership.
• Oversee design, delivery and assurance frameworks, ensuring safety, quality and integrity.
• Hold senior accountability for program-wide risk management, safety leadership, and environmental stewardship.
• Provide strategic commercial oversight including contract strategy and governance.
• Champion innovation, digital strategy and continuous improvement to enhance value.
• Develop and empower senior program management talent and succession planning.
• Represent the program and organization in industry forums to strengthen reputation and opportunities.
• Identify and support strategic business development aligned with growth.

Skills

Leadership

Program management

Stakeholder management

Strategic thinking

Education

Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent experience)

Job description

AECOM is seeking a Program Director to lead a large, complex program, setting vision, strategy and governance across delivery streams. You will drive innovation and continuous improvement while ensuring safety, quality and alignment with client objectives and organizational priorities.

The role supports succession planning and leadership readiness, with initial location flexibility and a requirement for eventual program-site relocation as projects are identified and awarded.