Project Director – Transport Planning

DescriptionZutari: Co-creating an engineered impact.Zutari is a well-established, management-owned engineering firm with over 90 years of experience. As human-centred engineering consultants and advisors, we are trusted by our clients, business partners, communities and other stakeholders across Africa and the Middle East.We co-create engineering solutions that have a positive impact and improve people’s lives. Zutari values inclusion and recognises the importance of a diverse, talented workforce, believing that people need other people to succeed.What kind of talent do we pursue?We employ people with the right attitude and a positive mindset, who are motivated by doing the right thing, getting things done and sharing a sense of urgency. People who have an impact on our teams and the broader community. People who think differently and connect with those around them to co-create new opportunities and leave a meaningful legacyAbout the role:We are seeking an experienced and visionary Project Director – Transport Planning (UAE based) to lead the development of strategic transport masterplans that shape the future of mobility in cities and regions. This role requires deep expertise in long-term transport planning, policy formulation, and integration of future mobility solutions to support sustainable urban growth. The candidate will be responsible for guiding clients through complex planning challenges and delivering transformative, high-impact strategies.Key Responsibilities:Strategic LeadershipLead the development of national, regional, and city-level Transport Masterplans, aligned with long-term urban growth, sustainability, and economic development goalsDevelop integrated multi-modal mobility strategies that support accessibility, livability, and carbon reductionShape policy frameworks and high-level mobility strategies that enable innovation, efficiency, and inclusivity in transport systemsClient & Stakeholder EngagementAct as a trusted advisor to government agencies, urban developers, and infrastructure clientsLead high-level consultations and workshops with public and private stakeholders to build consensus around transport visions and investment prioritiesTranslate complex urban mobility needs into clear, actionable strategiesFuture Mobility & InnovationGuide the integration of emerging mobility trends (e.g., shared mobility, electric vehicles, Mobility-as-a-Service, autonomous transport) into planning frameworksAdvise on smart mobility policies, governance structures, and funding mechanisms to support modern urban transport ecosystemsProject & Team ManagementOversee a portfolio of large-scale, multidisciplinary projects, ensuring high-quality delivery on time and within budgetLead and mentor teams of planners, urban designers, policy analysts, and engineersCoordinate with technical and digital teams to integrate spatial analysis, GIS, and data-driven planning tools into the strategic planning processBusiness DevelopmentIdentify and pursue new project opportunities in strategic transport planning across public and private sectorsPrepare high-quality technical proposals and contribute to market positioning efforts in the regionSupport the company’s growth by expanding its reputation in strategic mobility planning and future transport systemsQualifications & Experience:Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Transport Planning, Urban Planning, or related discipline15+ years of progressive experience in transport strategy and policy, with a strong portfolio of leading complex masterplanning projectsProven experience delivering transport plans at city, regional, or national levelsIn-depth understanding of mobility trends, land use integration, sustainability principles, and transport governanceKey Competencies:Visionary leadership and strategic thinkingExcellent stakeholder and client managementExpertise in sustainable and future-focused transport planningStrong communication, facilitation, and presentation skillsTeam leadership and collaboration in multidisciplinary environmentsWe believe that a diverse workforce is key to our business success. We seek the best people for our jobs based on their skills, qualifications and experience. We embrace the principle of equal opportunity in employment and work towards eliminating all forms of unlawful discrimination in our employment practices.