Project Director – Data Center Projects

About the role

James L Williams Middle East is looking for a highly experienced Project Director to lead major data centre projects across the UAE. This senior leadership position oversees the full contractual, commercial and operational delivery, ensuring projects are completed on time, within budget and to the highest quality, health, safety and environmental standards.

Key responsibilities

• Lead the complete project lifecycle in line with contractual obligations.
• Oversee project planning, manpower allocation, procurement and cost control.
• Manage contractual and commercial matters, including FIDIC contracts and claims.
• Ensure timely submission of payment applications and maintain positive cash flow.
• Monitor performance against approved schedules and budgets.
• Coordinate with Project Managers, Construction Managers, QA/QC, HSE and Engineering teams.
• Liaise with clients, consultants, contractors and government authorities.
• Drive risk‑management initiatives, delay notifications and Extension of Time (EOT) claims.
• Oversee project close‑out, defect liability management and final account settlement.

Required profile

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering.
• Minimum 15 years of relevant industry experience.
• Proven leadership delivering data centre projects.
• Strong knowledge of FIDIC contracts and claims management.
• Solid commercial and financial management experience.
• Demonstrated ability to lead multidisciplinary teams.
• Excellent stakeholder and client relationship management skills.

Required skills

• FIDIC contract administration
• Mechanical engineering principles
• Electrical engineering principles
• Project management
• Cost control and budgeting
• Procurement processes