Director - Master Planning

Company Description

Work with Us. Change the World.

At AECOM, we're delivering a better world. Whether improving your commute, keeping the lights on, providing access to clean water, or transforming skylines, our work helps people and communities thrive. We are the world's trusted infrastructure consulting firm, partnering with clients to solve the world’s most complex challenges and build legacies for future generations.

There has never been a better time to be at AECOM. With accelerating infrastructure investment worldwide, our services are in great demand. We invite you to bring your bold ideas and big dreams and become part of a global team of over 50,000 planners, designers, engineers, scientists, digital innovators, program and construction managers and other professionals delivering projects that create a positive and tangible impact around the world.

We're one global team driven by our common purpose to deliver a better world. Join us.

Job Description

We are seeking an experienced and visionary Director of Master Planning to lead our strategic planning initiatives in Makkah, Saudi Arabia. In this pivotal leadership role, you will be responsible for developing, implementing, and overseeing comprehensive master plans that shape the future growth and development of our organization. The ideal candidate will demonstrate exceptional strategic thinking, decisive leadership, and a commitment to excellence in long-term planning and organizational vision.

• Develop and execute transformational master plans that align with organizational objectives and regional development goals, driving sustainable competitive advantage
• Lead and mentor cross-functional teams while coordinating with internal departments and external stakeholders to ensure successful plan implementation and organizational alignment
• Conduct advanced market analysis, demographic forecasting, and scenario planning to inform strategic planning decisions and anticipate future organizational requirements
• Oversee the complete planning lifecycle from strategic conception through execution, ensuring adherence to timelines, quality standards, and organizational excellence
• Monitor, evaluate, and optimize the progress of master plan initiatives, implementing strategic adjustments to achieve desired outcomes and maximize organizational impact
• Ensure all master planning activities comply with local regulations, zoning laws, and Saudi Arabia's development standards while advocating for organizational interests
• Present strategic recommendations and master plan proposals to senior leadership and key stakeholders, influencing executive decision-making and securing organizational buy-in
• Direct planning budgets and strategically allocate resources across multiple planning projects to optimize organizational investment and return on planning initiatives
• Build, develop, and mentor a high-performing planning team, fostering a culture of innovation, continuous improvement, and strategic excellence
• Collaborate with government agencies, municipal authorities, and community representatives at the executive level to facilitate plan approval, implementation, and long-term stakeholder partnerships

Qualifications

• Minimum 20 years of professional experience in master planning, strategic planning, or urban development, with significant progression into senior leadership roles
• Extensive leadership experience managing large planning teams and directing transformational, large-scale planning initiatives with proven organizational impact
• Demonstrated expertise in developing and executing comprehensive master plans for complex, multi-faceted projects or large organizations
• Advanced analytical and strategic problem-solving skills with exceptional ability to synthesize complex data, market intelligence, and organizational requirements into actionable strategies
• Expert-level proficiency in planning software and tools (GIS, CAD, BIM, and advanced planning applications)
• Exceptional stakeholder management and executive communication skills, with proven ability to influence senior leadership and diverse stakeholder groups
• Comprehensive knowledge of Saudi Arabia's regulatory framework, building codes, development standards, and government approval processes
• Advanced project management expertise with demonstrated success managing multiple large-scale initiatives simultaneously while maintaining quality and budget adherence
• Visionary strategic thinking with a track record of developing and implementing long-term organizational strategies that drive sustainable growth
• Exceptional organizational acumen with meticulous attention to detail and a commitment to operational excellence
• Extensive experience in budget management, financial planning, and resource allocation across complex planning portfolios
• Preferred: 15+ years of experience in urban development or real estate planning in the Middle East region with established relationships and market expertise
• Preferred: Proven experience leading public-private partnerships, community engagement initiatives, and government collaboration programs
• Preferred: Executive coaching or mentorship experience in developing high-performing planning and strategy teams

Additional Information

About AECOM

AECOM is proud to offer comprehensive benefits to meet the diverse needs of our employees. Depending on your employment status, AECOM benefits may include medical, dental, vision, life, AD&D, disability benefits, paid time off, leaves of absences, voluntary benefits, perks, flexible work options, well-being resources, employee assistance program, business travel insurance, service recognition awards, retirement savings plan, and employee stock purchase plan.

AECOM is the global infrastructure leader, committed to delivering a better world. As a trusted professional services firm powered by deep technical abilities, we solve our clients’ complex challenges in water, environment, energy, transportation and buildings. Our teams partner with public- and private-sector clients to create innovative, sustainable and resilient solutions throughout the project lifecycle – from advisory, planning, design and engineering to program and construction management. AECOM is a Fortune 500 firm that had revenue of $16.1 billion in fiscal year 2025. Learn more at aecom.com.

What makes AECOM a great place to work

You will be part of a global team that champions your growth and career ambitions. Work on groundbreaking projects - both in your local community and on a global scale - that are transforming our industry and shaping the future. With cutting-edge technology and a network of experts, you’ll have the resources to make a real impact. Our award-winning training and development programs are designed to expand your technical expertise and leadership skills, helping you build the career you’ve always envisioned. Here, you’ll find a welcoming workplace built on respect, collaboration and community - where you have the freedom to grow in a world of opportunity.

As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we believe in your potential and are here to help you achieve it. All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.