Construction Director

Job Summary

We are seeking a Construction Director to lead and oversee all construction activities across the real estate development portfolio. This executive role ensures projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest quality and regulatory standards. The Construction Director manages on-site construction teams, including Resident and Project Engineers. Position is a combination between office and site located but expected to be present in sites regularly.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement the company's construction strategy aligned with overall development objectives.
• Provide strategic input during project planning, feasibility, and design phases.
• Act as a key advisor to the Chief Development Officer on all construction-related matters.
• Oversee the construction lifecycle of all active projects, ensuring delivery in accordance with approved schedules, budgets, and specifications.
• Lead construction planning, procurement strategies, and contractor selection processes.
• Approve construction programs, methods, and resource allocations.
• Lead and mentor a team of resident engineers, project engineers, site managers, and support staff.
• Set performance benchmarks and monitor team performance across projects.
• Foster a collaborative, high-performance culture within the construction division.
• Enforce strict adherence to quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC) procedures.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and environmental (HSE) standards across all sites.
• Liaise with regulatory bodies and ensure all project-related permits and approvals are secured.
• Work closely with the Commercial team to manage project budgets and control costs.
• Review and approve major claims, variations, and contractor payments.
• Participate in high-level contract negotiations and dispute resolution when needed.
• Serve as the primary construction liaison for internal and external stakeholders, including consultants, contractors, and government agencies.
• Prepare regular reporting reports to CDO and executive team on project progress, risks, and KPIs.
  
  
  

Required Qualifications & Skills

• Bachelors degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, or a related field; Masters degree is a plus.
• Minimum 15 years of experience in the construction industry, with at least 5 years in a leadership/director role within property development.
• Proven track record in delivering complex high-rise residential, commercial, or mixed-use developments in the UAE or GCC.
• Strong knowledge of UAE construction laws, authority approvals, and FIDIC-based contract administration.
• Proficiency in project management tools (Primavera P6, MS Project) and construction reporting systems.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and negotiation skills.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple large-scale projects simultaneously with a strategic mindset and attention to detail.
• Membership with the Society of Engineers UAE, CIOB, or equivalent professional body.
• Familiarity with sustainability and ESG requirements in construction is a plus.
• Fluency in English is required; Arabic is an advantage.
• Experience in Reem Island, Maryah Island, Masdar and Al Raha a plus