Project Director

Job Description
Atkins

Réalis is looking for a Project Director , in Abu Dhabi & Dubai, UAE .
About Atkins

Réalis
Created by the integration of long-standing organizations dating back to 1911, Atkins

Réalis is a world-class engineering services and nuclear company dedicated to engineering a better future for our planet and its people. We create sustainable solutions that connect people, data and technology to transform the world's infrastructure and energy systems. We deploy global capabilities locally to our clients and deliver unique end-to-end services across the whole life cycle of an asset including consulting, advisory & environmental services, intelligent networks & cybersecurity, design & engineering, procurement, project & construction management, operations & maintenance, decommissioning and capital.

The breadth and depth of our capabilities are delivered to clients in strategic sectors such as Engineering Services, Nuclear and Capital. News and information are available at or follow us on Linked In .
Learn more about our rail presence in the Middle East
Atkins

Réalis is seeking a Project Director to lead the consultant-side delivery of the UAE High-Speed Rail (HSR) Intercity Project - Phase 1, connecting Abu Dhabi to Dubai. This role will oversee design reviews, programme and project management, and site supervision across a complex, multi-package infrastructure programme involving underground, at-grade, and tunnel works, four major stations, two maintenance depots, and full railway systems integration including rolling stock.
You will act as the single point of contact between internal and external delivery teams, ensuring strategic alignment, stakeholder coordination, and successful delivery of project objectives. The successful candidate will bring proven high-speed rail experience to the programme, contributing deep technical and delivery expertise to one of the region's most ambitious transport initiatives.
Requirements :
Sector Experience :

• Proven track record in delivering large-scale rail infrastructure projects, including high-speed rail (HSR) above 250 km/h.
• Experience in multidisciplinary design review, programme management, and site supervision.
• Demonstrated leadership in complex, multi-stakeholder infrastructure environments.

Strategic Leadership & Programme Oversight :

• Provide strategic leadership across the full programme lifecycle-from concept development and mobilisation through to delivery, commissioning, and benefits realization.
• Align project delivery with client goals, regulatory frameworks, and UAE development strategies.
• Lead multidisciplinary teams across design, engineering, construction, and stakeholder engagement.
• Represent Atkins
  
  Réalis on client boards and steering committees to ensure strategic alignment and confidence in programme delivery.

Planning & Scheduling :

• Implement a robust project management framework and execution strategy.
• Oversee the development and maintenance of the master programme and WBS.
• Lead delay mitigation strategies and ensure alignment with critical path milestones.
• Monitor contract programmes and ensure stakeholder approvals are timely and compliant.

Financial & Commercial Management :

• Own and manage programme-level P&L, ensuring financial performance, cost control, and commercial success.
• Review and report project budgets, recommend options for potential changes.
• Oversee contract administration, change control, and claims resolution.
• Coordinate with commercial teams to ensure transparency and governance throughout the project.

Risk Management & Governance :

• Chair risk meetings and lead the development of mitigation strategies.
• Ensure robust governance, risk management, and change control processes are in place and adhered to.
• Collaborate with commercial teams to manage disputes and claims proactively.

Construction Phase Management :

• Oversee site supervision, contractor coordination, and interface management across:
• Civil Works - Abu Dhabi and Dubai.
• Systems, Power, Depots, Rolling Stock, and Track.
• Ensure timely delivery of stakeholder decisions and facilitate collaborative problem-solving.
• Monitor contractor compliance with HSE, quality, and programme…