Executive Director / General Manager – Engineering & Contracting (Abu Dhabi)

Linum Consult’s client, a leading engineering and contracting firm, is seeking a highly experienced Arabic-speaking Executive Director / General Manager to establish, grow, and lead their operations in Abu Dhabi. This senior leadership role is ideal for a dynamic professional with a proven track record in managing large-scale construction businesses in the UAE.

Responsibilities

As Executive Director / General Manager, you will lead all aspects of the company’s operations in Abu Dhabi, driving strategic direction, operational excellence, and sustainable business growth. Key responsibilities include:

• Define and execute the company’s market-entry and growth strategy in Abu Dhabi
• Develop annual business plans, budgets, and KPIs
• Identify and secure new business opportunities, partnerships, and markets
• Represent the company with clients, investors, and government authorities
• Lead project execution to ensure timely delivery, budget compliance, and high-quality standards
• Approve project plans, schedules, and resource allocation
• Ensure compliance with contracts, regulations, and safety standards
• Resolve operational, engineering, and execution challenges
• Oversee P&L, cash flow, and overall financial health
• Approve major bids, tenders, and contracts
• Monitor profitability and drive cost efficiency
• Manage high-level disputes, claims, and arbitration
• Lead, mentor, and inspire senior management teams
• Oversee recruitment and workforce development to build a strong local presence
• Foster a high-performance culture focused on accountability, safety, and excellence
• Implement robust risk management frameworks
• Ensure full compliance with HSE standards, ISO certifications, and local regulations
• Champion continuous improvement, quality assurance, and operational excellence

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, Architecture, or related field
• Master’s degree in Business Administration or Project Management (preferred)
• Professional certifications (PMP, RICS, Chartered Engineer, Lean Construction) are a plus
• 10–20 years in construction/contracting, with 5–7 years in senior management
• Strong knowledge of construction laws, building codes, safety standards, and contractual frameworks (FIDIC, EPC, turnkey)
• Proven experience establishing and growing a construction business in Abu Dhabi
• Fluent in English and Arabic
• Strong leadership and people management skills
• Expertise in budgeting, financial planning, and cost control
• Advanced contract negotiation and risk management skills
• Strategic mindset with business development and market-entry expertise
• Excellent stakeholder communication (clients, consultants, subcontractors, authorities)
• Proficiency in ERP systems and project management tools (Primavera P6, MS Project)

How to Apply

If you meet the above requirements and are ready to lead the establishment and growth of a new business in Abu Dhabi, please send your CV to:

apply@gulfjobhire.com