Managing Director – Engineering & Construction

Job Overview

We are seeking an accomplished Managing Director to provide strategic leadership and overall direction to the organization, driving long-term profitability, sustainable growth, operational excellence, and shareholder value.

The Managing Director will lead the development and execution of the Company’s strategic objectives, oversee financial and operational performance, strengthen relationships with key clients and government entities, and provide leadership to the senior management team.

The ideal candidate will be a senior engineering or construction professional with a proven track record of leading complex projects, managing organizational performance, developing business strategies, and building strong relationships with clients, government authorities, consultants, and other key stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide strategic direction and leadership to achieve the Company’s short, medium, and long-term objectives.
• Develop and oversee the implementation of the Company’s overall strategic plan in alignment with its mission, vision, and growth objectives.
• Lead the business with a focus on profitability, sustainable growth, operational efficiency, and return on invested capital.
• Establish strategic and operational priorities and ensure their effective and timely implementation across the organization.
• Review and evaluate business strategy and planning processes and provide direction to functional and departmental heads.
• Establish organizational performance targets in coordination with the Group Managing Director and ensure alignment with strategic and operational objectives.
• Monitor business performance against approved targets and initiate corrective actions where required.
• Serve as the Company’s senior spokesperson and represent the organization professionally with internal and external stakeholders.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with key clients, consultants, project management companies, government entities, authorities, subcontractors, and strategic partners.
• Represent the Company at senior levels with UAE Government entities and other key bodies to develop and strengthen strategic business relationships and alliances.
• Provide strategic leadership for corporate communications and public relations activities.
• Ensure stakeholder concerns and requirements are addressed through appropriate communication channels.
• Oversee the Company’s financial management activities, including budgeting, financial performance, management reporting, and long-term profitability.
• Review financial and operational performance reports and ensure appropriate actions are taken to achieve business objectives.
• Review the delegation of authority framework in consultation with the Group Managing Director and ensure clear accountability across key management positions and operational functions.
• Ensure Company policies, procedures, and internal controls are effectively implemented across the organization.
• Monitor compliance with applicable laws, regulations, company policies, and governance requirements.
• Work with the internal audit function to promote transparency, accountability, and compliance across the organization.
• Review and approve recommendations relating to Company policies and procedures in consultation with the Group Managing Director.
• Foster a fair, inclusive, and performance-oriented work environment that supports employee development and career growth.
• Lead, manage, and evaluate the performance of direct reports and provide appropriate guidance and support.
• Coach and develop senior management teams to strengthen leadership capabilities and organizational performance.
• Oversee major business initiatives, complex projects, process improvement programs, and organizational transformation.
• Ensure projects and strategic initiatives are delivered effectively, within approved budgets, timelines, and quality requirements.
• Maintain strong oversight of project management, business planning, budget control, performance management, and operational processes.
• Sign and authorize official correspondence and documents within the approved authority matrix.
• Ensure compliance with Company HSE and quality requirements and all applicable legislation.
• Perform other responsibilities as assigned in accordance with the Company’s approved authority schedule.

Key Accountabilities

• Strategic Planning & Execution
• Business Growth & Profitability
• Organizational Leadership
• Financial Management
• Corporate Governance
• Business Development
• Government & Stakeholder Relations
• Client Relationship Management
• Project & Operational Oversight
• Performance Management
• Risk Management
• Policy & Process Development
• Organizational Development
• Senior Management Leadership

Authority

The Managing Director will have authority, in accordance with the Company’s approved delegation of authority matrix, to:

• Sign official correspondence addressed to clients, consultants, project management companies, subcontractors, government authorities, and other relevant stakeholders.
• Approve business and operational decisions within delegated authority.
• Review and approve policies, procedures, budgets, and strategic recommendations as authorized.
• Exercise other authorities assigned under the Company’s approved authority schedule.

Internal & External Communication

Internal:

• Board / Group Management
• General Management
• All Departments
• Functional and Department Heads
• Senior Management

External:

• Client Representatives
• Consultants
• Project Management Companies
• Government Entities
• Subcontractors
• Regulatory Authorities
• Third Parties
• Strategic Business Partners

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Architectural Engineering, or a related engineering discipline.
• Master’s degree is preferred, particularly an MBA or equivalent business qualification.
• 15+ years of professional experience, with substantial experience in senior leadership positions within engineering, construction, contracting, or related industries.
• Proven track record in leading and managing complex construction or engineering projects and business operations.
• Strong experience in strategic planning, business management, organizational development, and performance management.
• Demonstrated ability to drive revenue growth, profitability, operational efficiency, and sustainable business development.
• Strong understanding of project management, project controls, budgeting, and financial performance management.
• Proven ability to manage senior leadership teams and provide strategic direction across multiple functions.
• Strong experience in client relationship management and stakeholder engagement.
• Experience dealing with UAE government entities, authorities, major clients, consultants, and contractors is highly preferred.
• PMP certification is an advantage.
• Exceptional negotiation, analytical, decision-making, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong communication, facilitation, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Excellent organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deliver strategic initiatives on time and within budget.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and make sound decisions in complex business situations.
• Strong coaching, mentoring, and leadership capabilities.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English.
• Arabic language proficiency is an advantage.
• Must be professional, presentable, and capable of representing the Company at senior executive and external stakeholder level.

Preferred Candidate Profile

The ideal candidate will be a senior executive with an engineering/construction background and a strong combination of strategic, commercial, operational, and leadership experience.

Candidates who have previously held positions such as Managing Director, Executive Director, General Manager, CEO, or senior business leader within a construction or engineering organization will be preferred.

Experience with full business oversight, profitability, strategic planning, government relations, major client management, senior leadership, and complex project delivery will be highly valued.