Aviation Associate Director

Job Description

WSP in the Middle East are seeking an experienced Associate Director – Aviation to be based in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The role supports the Aviation Director in leading the sector’s strategic growth, operational excellence, and project delivery across the Kingdom.

The Associate Director will play a key role in business development, key client relationships, sector capability building, and oversight of major aviation projects, while ensuring quality, compliance, and alignment with WSP’s strategic objectives. The role also contributes to innovation, best practices, and continuous improvement across aviation programmes.

Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership & Sector Support

• Support the Aviation Director in driving the strategic growth and positioning of the aviation sector in KSA.
• Contribute to sector planning, market analysis, and identification of new aviation opportunities.
• Assist in shaping sector strategy in line with regional priorities, client needs, and WSP objectives.
  
  
  

Business Development & Client Engagement

• Support and contribute to business development activities, including pursuits, bids, and client presentations.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with key aviation clients, authorities, and stakeholders.
• Provide senior input into proposals, fee strategies, and technical positioning.
  
  
  

Project Oversight & Delivery Excellence

• Provide oversight and strategic input on select major aviation projects, ensuring delivery excellence.
• Ensure projects meet quality, safety, compliance, and contractual requirements.
• Support project teams in managing risks, resolving issues, and achieving programme objectives.
  
  
  

Technical Excellence & Capability Development

• Promote best practices, innovation, and continuous improvement across aviation programmes.
• Support development of sector capability, including mentoring of senior staff and talent development.
• Contribute to knowledge sharing, lessons learned, and technical leadership within the aviation community.
  
  
  

Governance & Quality Assurance

• Ensure alignment with internal governance, operational procedures, and client expectations.
• Support assurance reviews, independent checks, and senior-level decision making where required.
  
  
  

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Architecture, Aviation, or a related discipline.
• Master’s degree or professional chartership is desirable.
• 15+ years’ experience in the aviation or infrastructure sector, with significant exposure to large-scale aviation programmes.
• Proven experience supporting or operating at senior leadership level (Associate Director / Director / Senior Manager).
• Strong Middle East experience, preferably Saudi Arabia (KSA).
• Skills & Competencies
• Strong understanding of aviation sector clients, delivery models, and regulatory environments.
• Proven ability to manage senior stakeholders and client relationships.
• Commercial awareness with experience supporting bids, negotiations, and strategic pursuits.
• Strong leadership, communication, and decision-making skills.