Associate Director - Commercial

At AECOM, we're delivering a better world. Whether improving your commute, keeping the lights on, providing access to clean water, or transforming skylines, our work helps people and communities thrive. We are the world's trusted infrastructure consulting firm, partnering with clients to solve the world’s most complex challenges and build legacies for future generations.

There has never been a better time to be at AECOM. With accelerating infrastructure investment worldwide, our services are in great demand. We invite you to bring your bold ideas and big dreams and become part of a global team of over 50,000 planners, designers, engineers, scientists, digital innovators, program and construction managers and other professionals delivering projects that create a positive and tangible impact around the world.

We're one global team driven by our common purpose to deliver a better world. Join us.

We are seeking an experienced and visionary Associate Director of Commercial for our High Speed Rail project in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. In this pivotal role, you will drive commercial strategy, oversee project execution, and lead a dynamic team to deliver exceptional results. You will be instrumental in managing the commercial aspects of this transformative infrastructure initiative while ensuring alignment with organizational goals and client expectations. This position offers the opportunity to make a significant impact on a world-class transportation project while advancing your career in a collaborative and innovative environment.

Develop and execute comprehensive commercial strategies that optimize revenue, manage costs, and drive profitability across all project phases

Provide strategic guidance and mentorship to team members within established organizational policies, fostering a culture of excellence and continuous improvement

Establish and implement commercial procedures and protocols that enhance operational efficiency and support organizational objectives

Analyze complex commercial data and market trends to inform decision-making and identify opportunities for business growth and optimization

Manage contract negotiations, vendor relationships, and supplier agreements to ensure favorable terms and sustained value delivery

Oversee project administration throughout the construction cycle, including technical coordination, financial management, and client satisfaction initiatives

Direct the planning, design, and construction management activities, ensuring seamless coordination and execution of all project phases

Manage construction engineering functions to guarantee strict adherence to engineering specifications, plans, and regulatory requirements

Maintain accountability for budget management, financial forecasting, and cost control measures to ensure project profitability

Collaborate as an integral member of the site construction team, working in alignment with project execution plans and organizational procedures

Identify and mitigate commercial and operational risks while maintaining transparency with stakeholders

Ensure compliance with UAE regulations, industry standards, and project-specific requirements

Foster collaborative relationships with internal teams, clients, and external partners to achieve shared objectives

Monitor key performance indicators and project metrics to drive continuous improvement and strategic decision-making

**Required Skills and Experience:**

Minimum 15+ years of progressive experience in commercial management, project management, or construction engineering within infrastructure or transportation sectors

Proven expertise in commercial strategy development and business development

Strong financial acumen with demonstrated experience managing budgets and P&L responsibilities

Advanced project management skills with experience overseeing large-scale, complex projects from conception through completion

Excellent contract negotiation and commercial agreement management capabilities

Demonstrated leadership experience managing and mentoring cross-functional teams

Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to evaluate diverse factors and market trends

Proficiency in stakeholder management and client relationship development

Knowledge of construction engineering principles, specifications, and industry best practices

Experience with risk management and regulatory compliance in infrastructure projects

Exceptional organizational and time management skills

Strong written and verbal communication abilities in English

**Preferred Skills and Experience:**

Experience with high-speed rail, rail infrastructure, or similar transportation projects

Familiarity with UAE regulatory environment and local business practices

Project management certification (PMP, PRINCE2, or equivalent)

Experience with construction management software and project management tools

Background in vendor and supplier management

Knowledge of sustainable and innovative construction methodologies

**Education and Certifications:**

Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Business Administration, Project Management, or related field

Professional certifications in project management or commercial management are advantageous

**Domain Expertise:**

Deep understanding of high-speed rail project requirements, technical specifications, and operational considerations

Knowledge of infrastructure development, construction cycles, and engineering standards

Familiarity with commercial frameworks specific to large-scale transportation projects

At AECOM, we are committed to maintaining a secure and trustworthy recruitment process and take any fraudulent hiring activity seriously. To support this commitment, all newly hired employees are required to attend an in-person Day 1 onboarding at an AECOM office location as a condition of employment.

AECOM is proud to offer comprehensive benefits to meet the diverse needs of our employees. Depending on your employment status, AECOM benefits may include medical, dental, vision, life, AD&D, disability benefits, paid time off, leaves of absences, voluntary benefits, perks, flexible work options, well-being resources, employee assistance program, business travel insurance, service recognition awards, retirement savings plan, and employee stock purchase plan.

AECOM is the global infrastructure leader, committed to delivering a better world. As a trusted professional services firm powered by deep technical abilities, we solve our clients’ complex challenges in water, environment, energy, transportation and buildings. Our teams partner with public- and private-sector clients to create innovative, sustainable and resilient solutions throughout the project lifecycle – from advisory, planning, design and engineering to program and construction management. AECOM is a Fortune 500 firm that had revenue of $16.1 billion in fiscal year 2025. Learn more at aecom.com.

You will be part of a global team that champions your growth and career ambitions. Work on groundbreaking projects - both in your local community and on a global scale - that are transforming our industry and shaping the future. With cutting-edge technology and a network of experts, you’ll have the resources to make a real impact. Our award-winning training and development programs are designed to expand your technical expertise and leadership skills, helping you build the career you’ve always envisioned. Here, you’ll find a welcoming workplace built on respect, collaboration and community - where you have the freedom to grow in a world of opportunity.

As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we believe in your potential and are here to help you achieve it. All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.