Project Director – Master Planning & Design Management

About the role

Parsons is seeking an experienced Project Director to lead large‑scale master planning, roads and infrastructure projects in Abu Dhabi. You will provide strategic leadership across the full project lifecycle, ensuring delivery that meets client objectives, contractual requirements and the highest quality standards.

Key responsibilities

• Lead end‑to‑end delivery of major infrastructure programmes, overseeing planning, design, construction and close‑out.
• Serve as the primary contact for clients, government authorities, stakeholders, consultants and contractors.
• Establish project governance, delivery strategies, execution plans and reporting frameworks.
• Manage commercial performance, budgets, forecasts, change orders, claims and overall financial outcomes.
• Identify, assess and mitigate project risks, issues and opportunities.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, environmental, quality and regulatory requirements.
• Oversee procurement, contractor performance and consultant coordination.
• Negotiate scope changes, commercial matters and variations with clients and partners.
• Mentor and develop project managers and teams, supporting talent development and succession planning.

Required profile

• Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Design and Project Management or a related technical discipline.
• Minimum 20 years of progressive experience delivering major infrastructure, transportation or civil engineering projects.
• Significant experience in a Project Director or senior leadership role managing large, multidisciplinary teams.
• Strong commercial acumen with proven experience in financial performance, contracts, claims and risk management.
• Professional registration (PE, CEng, PMP or equivalent) preferred.

Required skills

• Civil Engineering
• Project Management
• PMP certification
• Professional Engineer (PE) or Chartered Engineer (CEng) registration