Programme Director (Rail & Infrastructure)

Job description / Role

Our Global Project Management Consultancy client has a new requirement for a well experienced Programme Director to join their team in Abu Dhabi leading the delivery of major transportation infrastructure programmes across the Middle East. Successful candidates will have a proven background as a senior leader with deep expertise in Rail, Transport Systems, or Airport Infrastructure, and a proven track record of managing complex, multibillion programmes in dynamic, high-profile environments. The incumbent will be responsible for driving delivery excellence, managing strategic client relationships, and ensuring programmes are delivered on time, on budget, and in alignment with national infrastructure goals and client expectations. A strong commitment to HSQE and the wellbeing of staff is essential, ensuring safe, sustainable, and inclusive programme environments

This role is available for immediate joining and is a direct hire, permanent opportunity, employed by our client.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership across the full programme lifecycle — from concept development and mobilisation through to delivery, commissioning, and benefits realization.
• Own and manage programme-level P&L, ensuring financial performance, cost control, and commercial success.
• Act as the senior interface with clients, sitting on client boards and steering committees to ensure alignment, confidence, and strategic partnership.
• Lead large, multidisciplinary teams across engineering, commercial, planning, and delivery functions, fostering a high-performance culture.
• Drive delivery excellence, ensuring programmes meet all technical, contractual, and operational requirements.
• Ensure robust governance, risk management, and change control processes are in place and adhered to.
• Champion innovation, digital transformation, and modern delivery methodologies to drive efficiency and enhance outcomes.
• Ensure programmes are delivered on time, on budget, and in line with agreed benefits, KPIs, and client expectations.
• Promote a culture of safety, sustainability, and inclusive leadership across all programme environments, with a strong emphasis on HSQE compliance and continuous improvement.
• Support the wellbeing, engagement, and development of staff, ensuring a positive and resilient working environment.
• Represent the organisation in strategic forums, bid interviews, and industry engagements, contributing to thought leadership and market positioning.

Programme Director (Rail & Infrastructure) Experience:

• Degree-qualified in Engineering or Construction, from a recognized institution (preferably a Master’s Degree or have Chartered Engineer Status); professional membership (e.g., FICE, MICE, FAPM, MAPM) preferred.
• 20+ years of experience in delivering major infrastructure programmes, with deep expertise in one or more of the following:
• Rail Systems: including signalling, rolling stock, and systems integration.
• Transport Technologies: including ITS, smart mobility, and digital platforms.
• Airport Infrastructure: including terminal development, airside systems, and aviation operations.
• Proven ability to lead mega programmes with full accountability for delivery, commercial performance, and client satisfaction.
• Strong commercial acumen, with experience in contract negotiation, dispute resolution, and financial oversight.
• Demonstrated success in client engagement, stakeholder management, and securing repeat and new business.
• Experience working in the Middle East or other high-growth, fast-paced markets is highly desirable.
• Exceptional communication, leadership, and strategic thinking skills.
• Demonstrated leadership in HSQE, with a track record of embedding safety, quality, and environmental responsibility into programme culture.
• Commitment to staff wellbeing, inclusive leadership, and team development.

Salary:
AED 100,000 to 120,000 per month inclusive of fixed allowances.

About the Company

J10 Consulting are Construction Recruitment experts in the Middle East.

We help businesses and careers grow by delivering Temporary Contract & Permanent Contingency hiring solutions within Construction & Engineering in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman, Bahrain & Kuwait

J10 Consulting provide collaborative engagement and a deep understanding of both client and candidate requirements to cover temporary and permanent requirements across a number of vertical markets within Construction & Engineering.