Description

The Associate Director – Cost Management (Pre‑Contract) role is part of the Buildings & Places & Infrastructure team, providing comprehensive cost management services across the project lifecycle, with emphasis on pre‑contract phases.

The position involves leading business performance for a market sector, developing business plans, driving growth through client acquisition and expansion, and acting as a trusted advisor to clients.

Key responsibilities include overseeing proposal preparation, leading bids, ensuring contractual compliance, managing project delivery, financial performance, cash collection, and presenting benchmark data to clients.

Leadership duties encompass directing project teams, managing resources, mentoring staff, networking, and enhancing professional profile through sector engagement.

• Lead annual business performance of a market sector and develop aligned business plans.
• Identify and secure new clients while expanding services with existing clients to build a sustainable pipeline.
• Act as trusted advisor and strategic partner in client engagements across the end market.
• Oversee proposal preparation and lead bids for new opportunities.
• Secure client approval for scope changes, ensuring contractual compliance.
• Accountable for delivering complex projects throughout the full lifecycle, meeting quality, schedule, and budget targets.
• Serve as Workbench Project Director on at least one active project, managing services via Workbench and related systems.
• Ensure deliverables comply with internal Project Delivery Standards and quality assurance requirements.
• Actively manage financial performance of the portfolio and implement corrective actions as needed.
• Ensure timely cash collection for the market sector and associated projects.
• Interpret and present benchmark data to clients to support informed decision‑making.
• Provide leadership and direction to project teams, fostering an engaged, high‑performing workforce.
• Manage resources across the sector or large‑scale projects, optimizing allocation within budget constraints.
• Mentor, coach, and conduct performance management to develop talent.
• Represent AECOM in internal and external networking activities and sector forums.
• Enhance professional profile through publications, speaking engagements, and thought‑leadership activities.
• Present project deliverables and strategic insights to clients with clarity and confidence.

Requirements

The role requires at least 12 years of post‑undergraduate experience, a BSc in Quantity Surveying or Engineering, MRICS accreditation, strong pre‑contract cost management expertise, familiarity with FIDIC contracts, and a proven track record in the UAE.

• Significant experience and strong track record in Cost Management/Quantity Surveying, preferably within the UAE.
• Extensive pre‑contract cost management experience.
• Proven ability to manage cost/commercial aspects in integrated, multi‑organisation collaborative teams.
• Skilled at identifying and influencing key client stakeholders to grow workload and portfolio.
• Good working knowledge of FIDIC contracts.
• Minimum 12 years of post‑undergraduate experience.
• Bachelor of Science in Quantity Surveying and/or Engineering (or equivalent) from an accredited university.
• MRICS accreditation.

Benefits

AECOM offers comprehensive benefits, flexible work options, development programs, and a collaborative workplace that supports employee growth, inclusion, and a sense of community.

• Comprehensive benefits including health, dental, vision, life and disability insurance, paid time off, flexible work options, retirement savings plan, employee stock purchase plan, and wellness resources.

Training + Development

Interview process

Visa Sponsorship

Security clearance