Project Director

SYSTRA is one of the world's leading engineering and consultancy groups specialising in public transport and sustainable mobility. With over 10,300 employees, SYSTRA's mission is to design safe and sustainable transport solutions to bring people together, develop social inclusion and facilitate access to employment, education and leisure throughout the world.

For 65 years, the Group has been working alongside cities and regions to contribute to their development by creating, improving and modernising their infrastructure and transport systems, throughout the life cycle of their projects. SYSTRA is involved from the earliest stages of design through to the testing, deployment and maintenance phases. The company provides all its services in over 80 countries worldwide and generates 74% of its turnover internationally. With its new services, SYSTRA supports its clients and partners in their digital, ecological and energy transition, in order to invent the mobility of tomorrow.

We are looking for an experienced Project Director to support the Client in overseeing the creation and delivery of large-scale transport strategies, master plans, and regulatory frameworks, as well as managing public-private sector engagement. The Project Director will ensure effective coordination across all projects and partners to achieve reliable, high-capacity transport solutions within the region.

Transport Strategy & Master Planning

• Lead the formulation and implementation of comprehensive transport strategies, master plans, studies, executive programs, and initiatives central to the Client's mandate.
• Review and evaluate strategies and plans submitted by ministries and government bodies to ensure consistency with national priorities, providing expert assessment of potential sector impacts within the Employer's remit.

Public-Private Sector Partnership Development:

• Define innovative business models and build strategic partnerships with private and non-profit sectors to expand and enhance transport services.
• Develop programs and incentive mechanisms to encourage and supervise private sector participation, subject to Authority approval.

Network Planning & Facilities Location:

• Oversee the establishment of internal public transport network routes, lines, and the location of transport facilities in close coordination with the Public Transport Authority and other relevant entities.
• Identify and secure assets and land required for transport infrastructure, following the Client's procedures for allocation.

Technical Standards & Regulatory Compliance:

• Develop and implement technical specifications, safety standards, and operational requirements for all transport modes and routes, ensuring regulatory compliance and securing relevant authority approvals.
• Prepare and review activity requirements and operational procedures jointly with competent authorities.

Fare, Fee & Revenue Management:

• Set and coordinate the determination of public transport fares, licensing and service fees, and collection mechanisms with appropriate authorities, ensuring transparency and accountability in all financial processes.

Stakeholder Coordination & Oversight:

• Define roles and responsibilities, and coordinate efforts of all entities active in the transport sector, overseeing the implementation of ongoing and new programs/projects.
• Align and collaborate with external transport authorities on strategies and plans that extend beyond the Center's geographical scope.

Asset & Service Regulation:

• Oversee and regulate licensed companies and individuals delivering transport services, ensuring adherence to quality and safety standards.
• Supervise the construction and maintenance of future transport routes within the jurisdiction, collaborating with responsible partners.

Sector Performance & Problem Solving:

• Analyze and address challenges impacting transport services, developing data-driven solutions and advising competent authorities accordingly.
• Establish monitoring systems and performance indicators to ensure sector integration, enhanced capacity, and service excellence.

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Transport Planning, Civil Engineering, Urban Planning, Transport Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum 20 years of progressive experience in transport planning/ Transport Policy Advisory with at least 10 years in senior project leadership roles involving multi-modal, multi-stakeholder initiatives.
• Extensive experience in developing and implementing urban/regional transport strategies and master plans in the GCC/ Middle East.
• Proven ability to manage public-private partnerships and navigate complex regulatory environments.
• Strong stakeholder engagement, negotiation, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to deliver C-Level/ Board Presentations
• Proficient in English; knowledge of Arabic is an advantage.

Key Competencies:

• Strategic Transport Vision & Leadership
• Master Planning & Project Integration
• Stakeholder & Partnership Management
• Regulatory Compliance & Governance
• Technical & Safety Standards Development
• Financial & Fare Structuring
• Analytical Decision-Making
• Quality & Performance Management
• Strong team player
• Transparency

Systra is an equal opportunities company; this position is open to all applicants.