Project Director

Project Director – Industrial, Logistics & Biotech InfrastructureLocation:Riyadh, Saudi ArabiaSalary:Highly Competitive – typicallyUSD 115,795 – USD 217,116 per year(depending on seniority & experience)Languages:Chinese & English (Fluent); Arabic preferredSector:Biotechnology · Industrial Construction · Large‑Scale InfrastructureEmployment Type:Full-time, On-siteEmployer OverviewA major public‑sector organisation within thebiotechnology and advanced research sectoris undergoing a significant global expansion. Headquartered in Asia, the employer is recognised for:World-leading R&D capabilitiesStrategic investment in global biotech and industrial infrastructureLarge‑scale project delivery across international marketsA strong commitment to innovation, sustainability, and technology localisationThe company is rapidly developing its footprint across theMiddle East, with major industrial, logistics, and biotech facilities in Saudi Arabia and the UAE. This expansion requires seasoned leadership capable of driving complex project delivery in fast‑growing, high‑impact environments.This is a rare opportunity for a senior construction professional to shape the regional execution of cutting‑edge biotech and industrial infrastructure projects.Position Overview: Project DirectorTheProject Directorwill serve as the senior‑most leader overseeing project management, construction execution, technology localisation, and multidisciplinary coordination across major Middle East projects. This is a high‑visibility leadership position responsible for the successful delivery of strategic industrial and logistics developments.Key Responsibilities1. Regional Project LeadershipLead all construction and project management activities across Saudi Arabia and the UAE.Represent the client‑side (Party A) in major offshore and local contractor engagements.Oversee project lifecycle management from design through execution and commissioning.2. Contracting Strategy & Multi-Prime ManagementManage complex projects delivered throughmultiple prime contractsorparallel contracting models.Provide senior‑level interface management between contractors, consultants, and internal stakeholders.3. Compliance, Governance & Market AwarenessMaintain expert understanding of regional construction laws, policies, and approval regulations.Ensure compliance across all project phases while proactively identifying and mitigating territory‑specific risks.4. Technical & Design CoordinationInterpret and adapt technical standards such asSaudi Building Code (SBC)and theUAE Fire & Life Safety Code.Lead harmonisation between domestic engineering outputs and local engineering requirements.5. Localisation of Advanced TechnologiesTranslate domestic R&D and technical innovations into feasible Middle East applications.Optimise and localise engineering solutions to ensure cost efficiency, constructability, and regulatory compliance.6. Cross‑Cultural and Multi‑National LeadershipServe as the communication bridge between domestic technical teams and Middle East project teams.Build cohesive relationships across design, supervision, supply chain, and subcontractor networks.7. Procurement & Supply Chain AlignmentConduct local market analysis for materials and equipment.Work with procurement teams to define supply chain strategies, supplier selection, and contract technical terms.8. On‑site Oversight & Technical AssuranceDeliver technical briefings to construction teams and validate site‑level execution.Ensure all work meets quality, safety, budget, and schedule expectations.9. Issue Resolution & Continuous ImprovementIdentify and resolve design, technical, or progress‑related challenges.Collect feedback and data to support ongoing optimisation of processes and technical solutions.Candidate RequirementsEducationBachelors degree inEngineering, Construction Management, Architecture, or related field.Experience8–12+ years of senior project or construction management experience in the Middle East.Proven leadership inindustrial plants, logistics real estate, or infrastructure megaprojects.Client‑side (Party A) experience is highly advantageous.Strong exposure to multi‑prime contracting, parallel contracting, and interface‑heavy environments.Technical ExpertiseStrong understanding of regional regulatory requirements and authority approval pathways.Sound knowledge of construction costs, procurement strategies, and major project challenges.Experience with project management systems such asAconex, Procore, Primavera, BIM.Languages & Cultural FitFluency inChinese & Englishrequired; Arabic proficiency strongly preferred.Ability to manage diverse, multinational teams and operate in a high‑paced environment.Skills & CompetenciesExceptional leadership and stakeholder managementOutstanding communication and coordination skillsStrong commercial awareness and cost management capabilityStrategic problem solver with hands‑on execution abilityHigh adaptability in multicultural and evolving project environ