Linum Consult’s client is an engineering and contracting firm who are seeking a highly experienced Arabic-speaking Executive Director/General Manager to establish, grow, and lead their business in Abu Dhabi. This is a senior leadership role suited for a dynamic professional with proven expertise in setting up and managing large-scale construction businesses in the UAE.
RESPONSIBILITIES
As the Executive Director/General Manager, you will be responsible for establishing, growing, and leading the company’s operations in Abu Dhabi. You will play a pivotal role in driving strategic direction, operational excellence, and sustainable business development.
- Defining and executing the company’s market-entry and growth strategy in Abu Dhabi
- Developing and delivering annual business plans, budgets, and KPIs
- Identifying and securing new business opportunities, partnerships, and markets
- Representing the company with clients, investors, and government authorities at the highest level
- Leading the execution of all projects to ensure delivery on time, within budget, and at the highest standards of quality
- Approving project plans, schedules, and allocation of resources
- Ensuring strict compliance with contractual obligations, regulations, and safety standards
- Resolving complex operational, engineering, and execution challenges
- Overseeing P&L, cash flow, and the overall financial health of the business
- Approving major bids, tenders, and contracts
- Monitoring the profitability and driving cost efficiency across all projects
- Managing high-level disputes, claims, and arbitration when necessary
- Leading, mentoring, and inspiring senior management teams across departments
- Overseeing recruitment and workforce development to build a strong local presence
- Fostering a high-performance culture driven by accountability, safety, and excellence
- Establishing and enforcing robust risk management frameworks
- Ensuring full compliance with HSE standards, ISO certifications, and local regulations
- Championing continuous improvement, quality assurance, and operational excellence
PROFILE
- Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, Architecture, or a related field
- Master’s degree in Business Administration and/or Project Management is an advantage
- Professional certifications (PMP, RICS, Chartered Engineer, Lean Construction) are a plus
- 10–20 years of experience in the construction/contracting sector, including at least 5–7 years in a senior management role
- Strong understanding of construction laws, regulations, building codes, safety standards, and contractual frameworks (FIDIC, EPC, turnkey, etc.)
- Proven experience in building and developing a business for an engineering/contracting firm in Abu Dhabi
- Must be fluent in English and Arabic
- Strong leadership and people management capabilities
- Expertise in budgeting, financial planning, and cost control
- Advanced contract negotiation and risk management skills
- Strategic mindset with business development and market-entry acumen
- Excellent stakeholder communication (clients, consultants, subcontractors, and authorities)
- Proficiency in ERP systems and project management tools (Primavera P6, MS Project)
APPLICATION PROCESS
If you meet the above requirements and are ready to lead the establishment and growth of a new business in Abu Dhabi, please apply with your CV to middle.east@linumconsult.com