Program Director Smart Cities & Urban Development

Description:

A landmark giga-project transforming Saudi Arabia's future urban landscape seeks an exceptional Program Director to lead multi-billion riyal smart city development initiatives. Reporting directly to the Executive Leadership Team and interfacing with the Board of Directors, this role holds end-to-end accountability for integrated programs encompassing transportation networks, renewable energy systems, digital infrastructure, and sustainable communities.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership and executive oversight for smart city programs valued at SAR 50+ billion, ensuring alignment with masterplan vision, sustainability targets, and innovation mandates
• Direct integrated program delivery across architecture, engineering, technology deployment, infrastructure construction, and community activation workstreams
• Lead executive governance forums with government stakeholders, international partners, technology providers, and investment committees to drive strategic decisions
• Establish program management frameworks encompassing scope, schedule, budget, risk, quality, and stakeholder management aligned with global best practices
• Champion innovation and emerging technology adoption including AI, IoT, autonomous systems, and renewable energy integration across urban ecosystem
• Build and mentor high-performing program teams comprising senior project managers, technical specialists, and functional experts while advancing Saudi talent development

Leadership Expectations

• Minimum 20 years of progressive leadership with 12+ years directing large-scale urban development, infrastructure, or smart city programs exceeding USD 10 billion
• Demonstrated experience navigating complex stakeholder environments including government entities, sovereign wealth funds, and multinational consortia in the Middle East
• Exceptional strategic vision with proven track record pioneering innovative delivery models and achieving breakthrough outcomes in transformational programs