Program Director — Construction

The Program Director (Construction) will provide strategic leadership and oversight for a portfolio of large-scale construction projects, ensuring alignment with organizational objectives. This role involves coordinating multiple projects to deliver results on time, within budget, and to the required quality and compliance standards. The position demands a programmatic approach to planning, stakeholder engagement, and cross-functional collaboration to drive successful project outcomes.

Key Responsibilities

Program Strategy & Governance: Develop and lead the overall construction program strategy aligned with the organization’s vision and business goals. Establish governance frameworks, project controls, and reporting mechanisms. Oversee the creation and approval of project charters, timelines, and deliverables.

Program Planning & Execution: Manage the execution of multiple construction projects across various locations. Ensure integration of project plans, resource allocation, budgeting, and risk management across the program. Provide guidance to project managers throughout project initiation, execution, and closure, ensuring compliance with best practices and standards.

Stakeholder Engagement: Serve as the primary liaison for internal and external stakeholders, including clients, regulatory bodies, consultants, and contractors. Handle escalations and critical issues promptly, facilitating timely decision-making. Present program updates, performance metrics, and risk assessments to executive leadership and the board.

Performance Monitoring & Reporting: Track project progress using key performance indicators to ensure adherence to scope, quality, cost, and schedule. Develop consolidated dashboards and reports for executive review, identifying performance gaps and recommending corrective measures. Conduct regular audits and evaluations to enhance program efficiency.

Quality Assurance & Compliance: Enforce compliance with design standards, quality benchmarks, safety protocols, and legal regulations. Oversee the implementation of health, safety, and environmental (HSE) policies across all sites. Ensure all permits, licenses, and documentation are current and properly maintained.

Team Leadership & Development: Lead and mentor a multidisciplinary team including technical staff, program managers, engineers, and support personnel. Cultivate a high-performance culture focused on problem-solving and innovation. Identify talent needs, recommend staffing strategies, and support professional development initiatives.

Required Qualifications

A Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering or Construction Management (BSc/BE) is essential. Candidates must have over 25 years of experience managing large-scale construction projects, with a minimum of 15 years in program or portfolio management leadership roles.

Preferred Qualifications and Benefits

A Master’s degree such as an MBA or MSc in Construction or Project Management is highly desirable, enhancing strategic and managerial capabilities. The role offers the opportunity to lead complex, high-impact construction programs within a dynamic organizational environment, fostering professional growth and leadership development.

Technical Skills

In-depth knowledge of commercial and infrastructure construction practices is required, along with familiarity with regulatory and compliance frameworks relevant to the construction industry.

Soft Skills

Exceptional leadership, organizational, and planning skills are critical. The candidate must demonstrate strong communication abilities and expertise in stakeholder management. The role requires adaptability, effective conflict resolution, and the capacity to manage complex, multifaceted projects successfully.