Associate Director - Cost Estimating and Management (Aviation)

Overview

We are looking for an Associate Director specializing in Cost & Commercial aspects within the Aviation sector. This key leadership role involves supplying expert cost advice and advisory services to airport clients, focusing on directing and managing cost and commercial strategies for large-scale aviation programs and capital investments primarily in the Middle East.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead strategic cost and commercial advisory initiatives for aviation clients across the Middle East region at both program and strategic levels.
• Formulate and execute regional aviation cost and commercial policies aligned with worldwide industry best practices.
• Serve as a trusted consultant to senior airport authorities, government agencies, and private investors.
• Oversee creation of capital expenditure plans, advanced cost modeling, and investment strategy development for complex aviation infrastructure projects.
• Manage commercial frameworks including procurement strategies, contract structures for major programs.
• Mentor and lead a team of cost and commercial experts ensuring high-quality output and professional growth.
• Develop and maintain a comprehensive aviation cost benchmark database to support strategic advisory services.
• Drive business growth through client relationship management, new business development, and key account oversight within the aviation domain.
• Lead the formulation of strategic bids, proposals, and commercial offers for significant aviation tenders.
• Collaborate across multidisciplinary teams to deliver integrated, high-impact solutions for large projects.
• Ensure governance, risk mitigation, and financial control across project engagements.

Candidate Profile

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Quantity Surveying, or a related discipline.
• At least 18 years of experience including significant involvement in aviation sector cost and commercial roles.
• A minimum of 5 years in senior leadership or managerial positions.
• Demonstrated success leading large-scale aviation infrastructure and capital program projects.
• Comprehensive knowledge of aviation assets such as terminals, airside, and landside developments.
• Expertise in procurement and commercial models like EPC, Design & Build, PPP, etc.
• Proficient with cost management software (e.g., Primavera, CostX, SAP, or comparable tools).
• Advanced skills in Excel and data analysis for financial evaluation.
• Outstanding communication, leadership, and stakeholder relationship capabilities.
• Strong analytical acumen along with commercial and strategic decision-making skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Professional certifications such as MRICS, FRICS, PMP, or CCP are advantageous.
• Experience working with major international airport operators or aviation authorities.
• Knowledge of regulatory standards from ICAO, FAA, or EASA.
• Experience in international environments, especially within the Middle East, is highly valued.

Benefits

• Tax-exempt salary framework.
• Life and medical insurance coverage.
• Entitlement to a paid annual leave allowance.
• Participation in a company gratuity scheme.
• Discretionary bonus program.
• Annual airfare allowance.
• Transportation and housing allowances provided.
• Access to a comprehensive Employee Wellbeing Program offering 24/7 support for finance, legal, health, fitness, nutrition, and family-related matters.

About AtkinsRéalis

AtkinsRéalis is a premier global engineering and nuclear services organization dedicated to connecting people, data, and technology to revolutionize infrastructure and energy systems. Our international team of consultants, designers, engineers, and project managers collaborate to engineer impactful solutions shaping a sustainable future for the planet and its communities.