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Executive Director – Engineering and Infrastructure (Water Treatment)

Job Description

Roles & Responsibilities

The Executive Director – Engineering and Infrastructure (Water Treatment) provides strategic leadership and oversight for the planning, design, construction, and operation of water treatment infrastructure. The role is responsible for ensuring sustainable, resilient, and technologically advanced water treatment systems to meet current and future demand. The position involves managing multidisciplinary engineering teams, ensuring regulatory compliance, and overseeing capital infrastructure projects that support reliable water supply and quality.


Key Responsibilities:

1. Strategic Infrastructure Development:

  • Lead the planning and execution of large-scale water treatment and distribution infrastructure projects.

  • Develop long-term infrastructure strategies aligned with population growth, water demand, and climate resilience.

  • Oversee the preparation of master plans, feasibility studies, and investment programs.

2. Engineering Design Leadership:

  • Supervise detailed engineering design and review of mechanical, civil, and electrical systems in water treatment facilities.

  • Approve technical standards, specifications, and ensure adherence to national and international codes (e.g., AWWA, BIS, WHO guidelines).

  • Champion innovation in treatment technologies, automation, and energy-efficient systems.

3. Capital Project Management:

  • Direct the full lifecycle of capital projects – from conceptualization to commissioning.

  • Manage budgets, procurement, scheduling, and stakeholder coordination to ensure timely and cost-effective project delivery.

  • Oversee contractor and consultant performance, ensuring quality control and contract compliance.

4. Operations Integration & Optimization:

  • Ensure seamless integration of new infrastructure into existing operations.

  • Guide process optimization efforts to enhance water quality, reduce treatment costs, and improve operational efficiency.

  • Leverage data analytics and digital tools (e.g., SCADA, GIS, IoT) for real-time performance monitoring.

5. Regulatory Compliance & Risk Management:

  • Ensure full compliance with environmental, health, and safety regulations.

  • Lead audits, risk assessments, and emergency preparedness initiatives.

  • Serve as a point of contact for regulatory agencies and external stakeholders.

6. Sustainability & Resource Efficiency:

  • Promote circular water economy principles including sludge reuse, energy recovery, and water reuse initiatives.

  • Implement green infrastructure, renewable energy, and climate-adaptive designs.

  • Champion ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) principles in project planning and execution.

7. Leadership & Stakeholder Engagement:

  • Lead cross-functional teams of engineers, planners, and technical experts.

  • Engage with government bodies, funding agencies, and community stakeholders.

  • Drive a culture of technical excellence, innovation, and continuous improvement.


Key Focus Areas:

  1. Water Treatment Plant Design, Construction & Upgrades

  2. Integrated Infrastructure Planning & Capital Project Delivery

  3. Water Quality, Safety Standards, and Regulatory Compliance

  4. Adoption of Smart Water Technologies (SCADA, Automation, AI/IoT)

  5. Sustainability and Climate-Resilient Infrastructure Development

  6. Cross-functional Leadership and Team Capacity Building

  7. Stakeholder Engagement, Policy Advocacy & Governance Support


Qualifications & Experience:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Civil, Mechanical, Environmental, or Chemical Engineering (Master’s or PhD preferred).

  • 20+ years of experience in water infrastructure and utility engineering, with at least 8–10 years in executive or leadership roles.

  • Proven track record in managing large water treatment projects and infrastructure programs.

  • Strong familiarity with regulatory frameworks (local, national, international) and water utility operations.


Skills & Competencies:

  • Strategic Planning & Infrastructure Development

  • Multidisciplinary Engineering & Design Oversight

  • Capital Project Management & Budget Control

  • Knowledge of Water Treatment Technologies & Standards

  • Regulatory Compliance & Risk Governance

  • Sustainability, Energy, and Resource Optimization

  • Executive Leadership & Public Sector Engagement

  • Strong Communication, Negotiation, and Policy Alignment Skills

Job Detail
  • Work Type: Full Time
  • Languages to be known : English
  • Country: United Arab Emirates
  • City: Dubai
  • Job Category : Water Treatment