Executive Director - Health, Safety & Wellbeing (Preconstruction)

About This Role

Role Purpose The Executive Director – HSW (Preconstruction) will lead the strategic development and implementation of health, safety, and wellbeing initiatives during the preconstruction phase of the Qiddiya project. This role ensures that all planning, design, procurement, and early works activities are executed in alignment with world-class HSW standards, regulatory compliance, and the project’s vision for a safety-first culture. This role includes the provision of a safety in design support service. The ultimate purpose of the role is to manage risk out of the construction programme by early detection, elimination or reduction.

Key ResponsibilitiesStrategic Leadership:

• Develop and execute the HSW strategy for the preconstruction phase, aligned with Qiddiya’s overall safety vision and ESG goals.
• Provide expert guidance to design consultants, contractors, and internal stakeholders on HSW integration in early project planning.

Risk Management & Compliance:

• Identify and mitigate HSW risks associated with design, logistics, and construction methodologies.
• Ensure compliance with Saudi Arabian regulations, international standards (e.g., ISO 45001), and client-specific requirements.

Stakeholder Engagement:

• Collaborate with project management, engineering, procurement, and legal teams to embed HSW considerations into all preconstruction activities.
• Lead HSW engagement with external stakeholders including contractors, consultants, and government authorities.

Performance Monitoring & Reporting:

• Develop and implement HSW performance metrics and reporting frameworks.
• Provide regular updates to senior leadership on HSW performance, trends, and improvement initiatives.

Culture & Capability Building:

• Champion a proactive safety culture through training, workshops, and leadership engagement.
• Mentor and develop the HSW team, ensuring capability to support the transition from preconstruction to delivery.

Requirements

Qualifications & Experience* Bachelor’s degree in Occupational Health & Safety, Engineering, or related field (Master’s preferred).

• Chartered Membership of IOSH or equivalent professional body.
• Minimum 15 years of HSW experience, with at least 10 years in a senior leadership role on major infrastructure or giga-projects.
• Proven track record in managing HSW during preconstruction and particularly contractor prequalification and safety in design. A knowledge of Modern Methods or Construction (MMC) is an advantage.
• Strong knowledge of international HSW standards and local regulatory frameworks.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills.

Desirable Attributes* Experience working in the Middle East, particularly in Saudi Arabia.

• Familiarity with digital HSW tools and data-driven safety management.
• Ability to influence at all levels and drive cultural transformation.

Benefits

Attractive benefits package