Operations Director - High Speed Rail Projects (Middle East based)

Regional Operations Director – Rail Projects

Position is Based in the Middle East

About the Company:

Our client ranks among the world's top global contractors and undertakes large industrial, infrastructure and select commercial projects for public and private customers principally in Europe, the Middle East and North Africa. The company has revenues more than $5.1bn per annum and employs close to 55,000 staff. With a legacy of excellence and a commitment to quality, innovation, and sustainability, on rail projects, including high-speed rail systems, metro networks, and large-scale transportation infrastructure; our client is looking for an experienced Operations Director to lead and oversee all aspects of their rail projects.

Position Overview:

The Operations Director will be responsible for the strategic and operational leadership of all rail-related projects, including high-speed rail and metro systems. This is a key senior leadership role, driving the successful delivery of multiple high-value rail projects. The ideal candidate will possess over 20 years of experience in civil engineering with a focus on rail infrastructure, and will have a proven track record of delivering complex projects within scope, budget, and schedule.

As the Operations Director, you will work closely with senior management, project teams, clients, and stakeholders to ensure the highest standards of project execution, quality, safety, and operational efficiency.

Key Responsibilities:

• Strategic Leadership: Lead the strategic direction for the rail division, ensuring alignment with company objectives and business growth.
• Project Delivery: Oversee the planning, execution, and delivery of multiple high-value rail projects, including high-speed rail and metro systems, ensuring on-time, on-budget, and quality performance.
• Team Management: Lead and mentor a team of project managers, engineers, and operational staff. Foster a culture of collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement across the rail operations division.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, subcontractors, regulatory bodies, and other key stakeholders to ensure project success and satisfaction.
• Financial Oversight: Manage project budgets, cost controls, and financial performance to ensure profitability and value for the business.
• Risk Management: Proactively identify and manage risks related to project execution, including safety, schedule delays, cost overruns, and regulatory compliance.
• Compliance & Quality Control: Ensure that all projects comply with relevant regulations, industry standards, and safety protocols. Oversee quality assurance processes to maintain world-class standards of delivery.
• Continuous Improvement: Identify opportunities for operational efficiencies, process improvements, and the adoption of innovative technologies to enhance project delivery and operational performance.
• Reporting & Performance Monitoring: Provide regular reports to senior leadership on project performance, milestones, risks, and opportunities. Track and report key performance indicators (KPIs) for the division.

Qualifications and Experience:

• Experience: Minimum of 20 years of experience in civil engineering, with at least 10 years in senior operational roles, preferably in rail infrastructure and transportation projects. Experience in delivering high-speed rail, metro systems, and large-scale rail infrastructure is essential.
• Education: Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering or a related discipline. A Master’s degree or professional qualifications (e.g., Chartered Engineer status) would be an advantage.
• Leadership Skills: Strong leadership and team management capabilities, with a proven track record of leading multi-disciplinary teams on complex projects.
• Project Management Expertise: Extensive experience in delivering large, multi-phase infrastructure projects, including risk management, budget control, and client relations.
• Technical Proficiency: Deep understanding of civil engineering principles, rail construction, and systems integration. Knowledge of modern rail technologies and methodologies is essential.
• Commercial Acumen: Ability to manage project budgets, financial forecasting, and contractual negotiations. Experience with large-scale tendering processes and procurement is an asset.
• Regulatory Knowledge: Familiarity with international standards, regulations, and best practices in rail infrastructure and construction, including health, safety, and environmental regulations.
• Communication Skills: Exceptional communication skills, both verbal and written, with the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels of the organization and with external partners.
• Global Perspective: Experience working on international projects and managing cross-cultural teams is a plus.
• Personal Attributes: Strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities. Ability to thrive in a fast-paced and dynamic environment. Excellent organizational and time-management skills. Commitment to safety, quality, and continuous improvement.

What We Offer:

• Competitive tax free salary circa US$15-18k per month
• Full expatriate benefits package including housing, car, flights.
• Opportunity to work with a leading global civil engineering contractor.
• Exposure to cutting-edge, high-profile rail projects.
• A dynamic and collaborative work environment.
• Professional development opportunities.