Construction Director - Rail

Construction Director – High-Speed Rail (Civils & Track)Abu Dhabi, UAEThe OpportunityAn exciting opportunity to lead construction delivery of a multi-billion-dollar civils and trackwork package on one of the region’s most ambitious infrastructure programmes – the high-speed rail link connecting Abu Dhabi and Dubai.Acting on behalf of a leading Joint Venture partner, this role sits at the forefront of site delivery, with responsibility for coordinating complex, multi-disciplinary construction across civil works, track systems, depots and critical interfaces.Role OverviewThe Construction Director will lead the construction delivery of a major civils and trackwork package, ensuring safe, on-time, high-quality and commercially successful execution across multiple work fronts within a highly complex, multi-stakeholder environment.You will take overall responsibility for site construction execution, coordinating construction teams, subcontractors, engineering, planning, commercial and HSE functions, while interfacing closely with the client, consortium partners, consultants and authorities to maintain control of delivery performance.Key ResponsibilitiesLead construction delivery of a multi-billion-dollar civils and trackwork package across the high-speed rail corridor, managing multiple concurrent work frontsProvide construction leadership from mobilisation and enabling works through main works, testing, commissioning and handoverDirect and coordinate multi-disciplinary construction scope, including:Civil infrastructure (earthworks, structures, viaducts)Track systems and alignmentDepot and interface coordinationDrive construction programme, productivity, sequencing, logistics, resources, cost, risk and performance managementWork closely with the commercial team to maintain robust contract and change control, including:Contract administrationClaims and change managementRisk mitigation strategiesAct as the senior construction interface with the client, JV partners, consultants, subcontractors and authoritiesEnsure effective integration across JV partners, subcontractors, engineering teams and the wider supply chainBuild and lead a high-performing construction organisation, including Construction Managers and discipline leads, embedding strong delivery culture, productivity and accountabilityDrive construction methodology, sequencing, temporary works, site logistics and resource planning to maximise productivity and minimise interface riskMaintain close oversight of subcontractor performance, construction progress, quality, testing, punch-list close-out and readiness for handoverCoordinate closely with engineering and design teams to resolve technical issues, constructability constraints and site interfaces in a timely mannerEnsure all site works comply with local regulatory, HSE, quality and environmental requirements, driving a strong safety culture across the projectCandidate ProfileBSc in Civil/Mechanical Engineering or similar discipline Minimum 18-20 years’ experience in large-scale infrastructure construction and deliveryMinimum 10 years in rail projectsProven track record as Construction Director, Senior Construction Manager or equivalent on major rail/infrastructure programmesStrong hands-on construction experience managing complex, multi-disciplinary rail scopes, ideally including civils, track, structures, depots and systems interfacesDemonstrated success operating within Joint Ventures / international consortiumsDeep understanding of Middle East project environments, ideally UAE/GCCStrong understanding of programme, commercial and contractual controls, including change, claims, risk and subcontractor managementProven ability to lead large site teams and subcontractors while maintaining close control of programme, productivity, quality and HSE performancePMP or equivalent certification advantageousExceptional construction leadership, communication, coordination and problem-solving skillsWhy This RoleLandmark infrastructure programme of global significanceSenior construction leadership with significant client and JV exposureOpportunity to lead construction delivery on a next-generation high-speed rail networkLong-term, high-impact construction leadership role within a complex international JV environment