Head of Rail / Rail Lead - Middle East

About the role

WSP is seeking an experienced, commercially driven Head of Rail to lead and grow its Rail business across the Middle East. This senior leadership role defines and delivers the regional rail strategy, drives market growth, leads major client relationships and provides executive oversight of rail projects and technical excellence. The role oversees a multidisciplinary team covering track, civil works, stations, systems, signalling, power and operations, and shapes WSP's position in the rail and transit market across the GCC.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and implement the Middle East Rail business strategy and lead growth across the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman, Kuwait and the wider GCC
• Secure new business with public and private sector rail and transit programmes, and represent WSP at industry events and government forums
• Own the financial performance of the Rail business, including the Rail discipline P&L, and lead annual business planning, revenue forecasting and profitability
• Drive work-winning activities, framework appointments and major pursuits, with at least one rail design commission secured within the first 12 months
• Act as executive sponsor and senior relationship manager for key clients, building trusted advisor relationships with authorities, operators and developers
• Provide technical leadership across track, civil works, stations, rail systems, communications, depots and rolling stock, and ensure coordination and interfaces across disciplines
• Lead and develop the regional rail team, mentoring Technical Directors, Project Managers and Discipline Leads, and drive succession planning
• Position WSP as the preferred consultant for rail and transit projects, contributing to thought leadership and building industry partnerships

Required profile

• Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Railway Engineering, Systems Engineering or a related discipline; Master's preferred
• Chartered Engineer status through a recognised professional institution
• Typically 20+ years of rail industry experience
• Proven track record of growing rail businesses, winning major projects and managing strategic client relationships
• Strong network across rail authorities, government agencies, developers and transport organisations

Required skills

• Deep understanding of rail standards, regulations, approval processes and industry best practice
• Commercial acumen in managing business performance, budgets and profitability
• Demonstrated success leading multidisciplinary teams in a consultancy environment
• Clear communication at client and senior stakeholder level