Project Director (Railway)

**Company Description** **Work with Us. Change the World.** At AECOM, we're delivering a better world. Whether improving your commute, keeping the lights on, providing access to clean water, or transforming skylines, our work helps people and communities thrive. We are the world's trusted infrastructure consulting firm, partnering with clients to solve the world’s most complex challenges and build legacies for future generations. There has never been a better time to be at AECOM. With accelerating infrastructure investment worldwide, our services are in great demand. We invite you to bring your bold ideas and big dreams and become part of a global team of over 50,000 planners, designers, engineers, scientists, digital innovators, program and construction managers and other professionals delivering projects that create a positive and tangible impact around the world. We're one global team driven by our common purpose to deliver a better world. Join us. **Job Description** We are seeking an experienced and visionary Project Director to lead a Rail project iin Dubai, United Arab Emirates. This is a strategic leadership position responsible for overseeing all aspects of a large-scale, complex infrastructure project from conception through completion. The successful candidate will demonstrate exceptional project management expertise, decisive leadership, and the ability to navigate multifaceted stakeholder environments while maintaining rigorous quality and safety standards. * Direct and oversee all phases of the project, including planning, design, construction, and commissioning, ensuring alignment with organizational objectives and timelines * Develop and manage comprehensive project budgets, financial forecasts, and cost control measures to ensure fiscal responsibility and value optimization * Establish and maintain strategic relationships with government agencies, regulatory bodies, contractors, and key stakeholders to facilitate project approvals and smooth execution * Lead, mentor, and manage a diverse project team, including engineers, planners, and administrative staff, fostering a culture of accountability and excellence * Identify, assess, and mitigate project risks through proactive analysis and implementation of contingency strategies * Monitor project progress against established schedules and key performance indicators, implementing corrective actions as needed * Ensure compliance with all applicable UAE regulations, safety standards, and environmental requirements throughout project execution * Prepare and present detailed project reports, status updates, and recommendations to senior leadership and board members * Manage contract negotiations, procurement processes, and vendor relationships to optimize project delivery and resource allocation * Champion innovation and best practices in project delivery methodologies and infrastructure development **Qualifications** * Minimum 20 years of progressive experience in large-scale infrastructure or transportation project management * Proven track record leading high-speed rail, rail transit, or comparable complex transportation projects * Tunneling experience is a necessity * Advanced expertise in project management methodologies (PMI, PRINCE2, or equivalent) * Strong financial acumen with demonstrated experience managing multi-million dollar budgets and cost control * Excellent stakeholder management and government relations experience * Proficiency in project management software and tools (Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, or similar platforms) * Demonstrated leadership capability with experience managing cross-functional teams of 50+ personnel * Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with attention to detail and organizational excellence * Experience with contract negotiation and procurement in infrastructure projects * Knowledge of UAE regulatory framework and experience working on Middle East projects (preferred) * Exceptional communication and presentation skills in English * Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, dynamic environment while managing competing priorities **Additional Information** *At AECOM, we are committed to maintaining a secure and trustworthy recruitment process and take any fraudulent hiring activity seriously.* ***To support this commitment, all newly hired employees are required to attend an in-person Day 1 onboarding at an AECOM office location as a condition of employment.*** **About AECOM** AECOM is proud to offer comprehensive benefits to meet the diverse needs of our employees. Depending on your employment status, AECOM benefits may include medical, dental, vision, life, AD&D, disability benefits, paid time off, leaves of absences, voluntary benefits, perks, flexible work options, well-being resources, employee assistance program, business travel insurance, service recognition awards, retirement savings plan, and employee stock purchase plan. AECOM is the global infrastructure leader,