Project Director - Sports

About This Role

Mace combines construction expertise with consultancy to unlock potential in every person or project and redefine the boundaries of ambition. Our values shape the way we consult and define the people we want to join us on our journey.

The project:

This portfolio comprises projects either directly managed by the client team or delivered by leading third-party developers under the client’s leadership. It includes a diverse range of projects, spanning new construction, master planning schemes, and executive fit-out works.

You'll be responsible for:

• Lead the project from concept design through detailed design, procurement, construction, commissioning, and handover.
• Set clear project strategy, delivery roadmap, and governance arrangements aligned with client priorities and regulatory requirements.
• Provide authoritative leadership to design consultants, contractors, and specialist advisors to ensure coherent and coordinated project development.
• Oversee development of the project’s business case, feasibility assessments, and early‑stage cost, schedule, and risk models.
• Direct the full concept‑to-detailed design process, ensuring design intent reflects client vision, budget constraints, and long‑term operational needs.
• Establish and maintain robust programme controls, commercial strategy, procurement pathways, and risk management frameworks.
• Lead preparation of tender strategies, scope packages, and contractor engagement processes.
• Act as the senior client representative for all matters relating to the project, maintaining strong alignment with executive leadership.
• Manage relationships across government entities, regulators, sports bodies, consultants, contractors, and community stakeholders.
• Provide clear, concise executive reporting, highlighting progress, risks, decisions required, and performance against strategic objectives.
• Provide leadership during construction to ensure safety, quality, and schedule compliance remain at the forefront.
• Build and manage high‑performing teams, ensuring access to specialist expertise when required.
• Foster a collaborative, inclusive culture aligned with Mace values, prioritising safety, integrity, and performance.

You’ll need to have:

• Extensive experience as a Project Director or Senior Project Leader within major capital development programmes.
• Proven track record delivering large‑scale, complex projects from concept stage through to completion.
• Strong background in sports or large public/visitor facilities (stadiums, arenas, training complexes, multi‑sports environments) is highly desirable.
• Experience working in client‑side, PMC, or consultancy roles within the Middle East region preferred.
• Demonstrated capability in design management, construction delivery, procurement strategy, risk, and commercial governance.
• Strong understanding of regional regulatory, compliance, and governance frameworks within Abu Dhabi or the wider UAE.

Our values

Safety first - Going home safe and well: We champion a safe, diverse, and inclusive working environment, understanding the importance of well-being in every team.

Client focus - Deliver on our promise: We own the quality of deliverables and strategic outcomes and build long-term relationships with our clients.

Integrity - Always do the right thing: We influence positive outcomes within our industry while always aligning with our compliance obligations.

Create opportunity - For our people to excel: We champion a continuous improvement culture throughout all activities, inspiring our people and teams to develop.

Mace is an inclusive employer and welcomes interest from a diverse range of candidates. Even if you feel you do not fulfill all the criteria, please apply, as you may still be the best candidate for this role or another role within our organisation.

We are also open to discussing part-time, flexible, and hybrid working options if suitable within the role.

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