Project Director – Higher Education Campus Launch

About the role

Kaplan is seeking an experienced Project Director to lead the establishment and launch of a new UK university campus in Dubai. This senior position will drive the end‑to‑end delivery of the institution, shaping its academic, operational and regulatory foundations.

Key responsibilities

• Define the project scope, structure and timeline for the campus launch.
• Coordinate senior leaders, international partners and government stakeholders.
• Navigate local licensing, regulatory and approval processes.
• Oversee infrastructure development, contractor management and operational set‑up.
• Ensure alignment with UK higher‑education standards and transnational education requirements.

Required profile

• Minimum 8 years of programme/project management experience, preferably in education, institutional set‑up or complex multi‑stakeholder environments.
• At least 4–6 years leading large‑scale initiatives within Dubai/UAE.
• Experience with UK higher‑education institutions or transnational education.
• Bachelor’s degree or higher; PMP or equivalent certification is desirable.
• Arabic language skills are an advantage.

Required skills

What we offer

• 2‑year fixed‑term contract with hybrid working arrangement.
• Competitive salary of 400,000‑500,000 AED inclusive of accommodation and transport.
• Unique opportunity to build a new higher‑education institution from the ground up.