Modern Architectural and Urban Heritage Conservation Unit Head

About the role

The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi is seeking a senior leader to head its Modern Architectural and Urban Heritage Conservation Unit. The role provides strategic, technical and managerial direction for the preservation, restoration and sustainable management of twentieth‑century and contemporary heritage assets across the emirate.

Key responsibilities

• Set strategic priorities, annual plans, budgets and performance targets for the unit in line with departmental objectives.
• Oversee the preparation, review and approval of conservation plans, feasibility studies, heritage impact assessments and restoration project designs.
• Ensure all interventions comply with local legislation, organisational policies and internationally recognised conservation principles.
• Lead multidisciplinary teams of architects, urban planners, engineers and conservation specialists through all project phases.
• Provide technical advice to senior management on modern heritage policy, urban development and adaptive‑reuse initiatives.
• Coordinate consultant appointments, outsourced services and resource allocation to deliver high‑quality outputs on schedule.

Required profile

• Proven experience leading multidisciplinary teams in heritage, architecture or urban planning projects.
• Deep knowledge of modern architectural and urban heritage, including legislation and international conservation standards.
• Ability to develop and implement strategic plans, budgets and performance monitoring frameworks.
• Strong communication skills for advising senior officials and collaborating with external stakeholders.

Required skills