Head of Planning

Role Overview

We are seeking an execution-focused, technically rigorous Head of Planning to lead our 30-person project controls team across the GCC. This is a hands-on, operational leadership role. The ideal candidate comes from a top-tier consultancy or major main contractor and will directly quality-check baseline submissions, audit P6 schedules, and drive schedule performance across major regional developments.

Key Responsibilities

• Hands-on Quality Control: Personally audit and approve all Primavera P6 baseline schedules, resource loading, and critical path analyses before client submission.
• Team Leadership: Manage and direct a team of ~30 planning engineers across multiple regional sites.
• Operational Execution: Focus on daily schedule monitoring, variance mitigation, delay analysis, and resource balancing.
• Workforce Management: Oversee site resource allocation, including complex demobilization strategies upon project completions.
• Client Engagement: Lead high-stakes schedule alignment and baseline review meetings with clients, PMCs, and project stakeholders.

Key Requirements

• Industry Background: Proven track record working within an engineering/PM management consultancy or a reputable main contractor.
• Regional Experience: Strong track record in the UAE/GCC. Exposure to KSA mega-projects (and demobilized workforces) is a major plus.
• Technical Mastery: Deep, hands-on expertise in Primavera P6 and forensic schedule/delay analysis.
• Profile: Strong, authoritative presence with an operational, detail-oriented mindset.