Associate Director - Urban Advisory (Infrastructure + Masterplanning)

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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're looking for an experienced Associate Director, to join our Urban Advisory team in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. In this strategic role, you will drive the development and delivery of high-impact Infrastructure projects while building and mentoring a talented team. You will work closely with clients, stakeholders, and internal leadership to shape the future of urban developments across the region.

Responsibilities:

• Lead the conception, development, and execution of urban advisory projects, ensuring alignment with client objectives and organizational standards
• Conduct comprehensive market analysis, feasibility studies, and strategic assessments to inform urban development recommendations
• Develop and present strategic recommendations to senior leadership, clients, and key stakeholders, translating complex data into actionable insights
• Manage client relationships throughout the project lifecycle, ensuring satisfaction, clear communication, and successful project outcomes
• Oversee project teams, providing direction, mentorship, and performance feedback to ensure delivery excellence and professional development
• Analyze urban trends, regulatory frameworks, and market dynamics to identify opportunities and risks within the built environment sector
• Contribute to business development initiatives, including proposal development, pitch preparation, and new market opportunities
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate sustainability, innovation, and best practices into advisory solutions
• Monitor project budgets, timelines, and resource allocation to ensure efficient delivery and profitability
• Stay current with industry developments, emerging technologies, and evolving best practices in urban planning and advisory

Qualifications

• Degree in economics, urban planning, public policy, or a related field.
• 14+ years in urban advisory, economic development, and infrastructure
• Proven track record directing complex, multi‑stakeholder advisory projects from inception to delivery.
• Advanced competency in economic appraisal, feasibility, and financial modeling for urban and infrastructure projects.
• Experience with major transport and mobility programs, infrastructure corridors, urban regeneration programs and economic and industrial cities.
• Strong commercial acumen: scope definition, budgeting and risk management.

Additional Information

At AECOM, we are committed to maintaining a secure and trustworthy recruitment process and take any fraudulent hiring activity seriously. To support this commitment, all newly hired employees are required to attend an in-person Day 1 onboarding at an AECOM office location as a condition of employment.

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.