Associate Director - Roads & Highways

Job DescriptionWe are seeking a highly experienced Associate Director to join our Roads & Highways in Abu Dhabi. This is a senior technical and leadership role responsible for overseeing the delivery of complex roads and highways design packages for large-scale infrastructure and land development projects across the Emirate.The successful candidate will bring extensive Abu Dhabi project experience, strong multidisciplinary coordination capability, and the ability to lead high‑performing technical teams while maintaining close engagement with clients and authorities.ResponsibilitiesTechnical Leadership & Design OversightProvide technical leadership and oversight for the planning and detailed design of roads and highways infrastructure, including arterials, highways, interchanges, junctions, and access roads.Ensure design solutions comply with Abu Dhabi authority standards, manuals, and guidelines, as well as international best practice.Lead design development across all project stages, ensuring fully coordinated, buildable, and technically robust outcomes.Project Delivery & Multidisciplinary CoordinationManage and coordinate multi-disciplinary design teams including utilities, drainage, structures, traffic, landscaping, and public realm disciplines.Oversee interface management between internal teams, external consultants, and contractors.Review and approve technical deliverables to ensure quality, consistency, and compliance with project requirements.Client & Authority EngagementAct as a key point of contact with Clients, government authorities, and key stakeholders throughout the project lifecycle.Lead technical discussions, design reviews, and approvals with relevant Abu Dhabi authorities.Provide strategic advice to Clients on design approaches, phasing, constructability, and risk management.Commercial & Operational ManagementSupport project planning, resourcing, programme management, and budget control in coordination with project managers and directors.Contribute to proposal preparation, bids, and business development activities related to roads and highways projects.Assist in identifying opportunities for repeat business and long‑term client relationships.Leadership & Team DevelopmentLead, mentor, and develop senior and junior engineers within the Roads & Highways team.Promote a culture of technical excellence,, and continuous improvement.Support talent development, succession planning, and performance management within the discipline.QualificationsBachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering (Master’s degree preferred).20+ years of professional experience in roads and highways design and delivery.Extensive experience delivering Abu Dhabi-based infrastructure and land development projects.Strong knowledge of local authority standards, approval processes, and regulatory requirements in Abu Dhabi.Proven ability to lead and coordinate large, multi‑disciplinary design teams.Demonstrated experience in senior technical leadership roles (Associate Director, Technical Director, or equivalent).Excellent communication, stakeholder management, and leadership skills.BenefitsWSP recognizes that work is only one part of our lives and making time for other things is important – be that families, friends or ourselves. Flexible working arrangements such as working from home, part‑time or flexible hours are encouraged during the application process.Competitive pay, first class medical cover, generous days annual leave, and paid professional subscriptions.Join our close‑knit community of talented individuals who share your passion for making a positive impact. With more than 69,000 employees worldwide, we make a difference in communities both close to home and around the world.Apply today.#J-18808-Ljbffr