Director of Operations - High-Speed Rail Program

About the role

Parsons is seeking a highly experienced Director of Operations and Maintenance to lead the development and implementation of the O&M strategy for a major High-Speed Rail (HSR) program in the UAE. The role establishes the operational framework, maintenance philosophy, operational readiness program and safety assurance processes needed to support safe, reliable and efficient 320 km/h railway operations.

Key responsibilities

• Lead the development of the Operations and Maintenance philosophy for the safe, reliable and efficient operation of the High-Speed Rail network.
• Define and develop operational and maintenance requirements for the contracted railway operator.
• Oversee the development and approval of the Operations Safety Case and associated operational assurance processes.
• Direct the operational readiness program, including procedures, training programs, emergency preparedness exercises, trial operations, commissioning support and regulatory compliance activities.
• Coordinate with engineering, systems, safety, regulatory and program delivery teams so that operational requirements are integrated throughout the project lifecycle.
• Support the transition from construction and commissioning into revenue service operations.
• Provide strategic leadership on railway operations, maintenance planning, asset management and operational performance objectives.

Required profile

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Railway Operations, Transportation Management or a related discipline.
• Extensive experience in railway operations and maintenance leadership roles.
• Demonstrated experience developing operational concepts, maintenance regimes and readiness programs for large-scale rail infrastructure projects.
• Proven leadership, stakeholder management and team coordination in complex transportation programs.
• Ability to manage operational risks and resolve complex challenges in a high-performance environment.

Required skills

• Strong understanding of rail operations, service planning, asset maintenance strategies and operational safety frameworks.
• Excellent communication and organizational skills.