PMO Senior Lead, Airport Transformation, Riyadh, KSA (Residential)

About the Programme

Saudi Arabia is embarking on an unparalleled aviation infrastructure initiative, positioning itself at the forefront of global airport development. The Riyadh Aviation Transformation Programme, spearheaded by King Salman International Airport, represents a cornerstone of Vision 2030, transforming a monumental megaproject into a fully operational, state-of-the-art aviation hub. This transformative endeavour encompasses a comprehensive overhaul of technology, operations, and business processes, requiring meticulous planning, robust governance, and seamless execution to deliver a world-class facility.

The Mandate

Reporting directly to the Programme Director, the PMO Senior Lead will be responsible for designing, establishing, and managing the Programme Management Office (PMO) for a multi-billion riyal initiative spanning 49 distinct systems across 18 integration domains. This critical role demands a strategic approach to governance, ensuring alignment with programme objectives while maintaining rigorous oversight of delivery. Key responsibilities include:

• Governance Framework: Develop and embed a robust programme governance structure, including reporting cadence, escalation protocols, and decision-making frameworks tailored to the needs of the consortium and stakeholders.
• PMO Leadership: Lead a high-performing team of project control analysts, financial control analysts, and schedulers, both onshore and offshore, fostering collaboration and driving accountability across all functions.
• Executive Reporting: Own the executive reporting rhythm, ensuring timely and accurate communication to the steering committee, sponsors, and client stakeholders through clear, actionable insights.
• Commercial Governance: Manage commercial oversight, including contract changes, scope variations, and vendor performance, ensuring compliance with contractual obligations and programme objectives.
• Quality & Risk Management: Establish and enforce rigorous quality management, risk management, and compliance frameworks to mitigate potential disruptions and uphold programme integrity.
• Programme Cadence: Drive the programme’s operational rhythm through structured workshops, review boards, stage gates, and milestone reporting, ensuring alignment with strategic milestones and deliverables.

Within the first year, the PMO Senior Lead will be expected to deliver a fully operational PMO with baselined governance frameworks, integrated financial and schedule reporting systems, approved quality and risk management protocols, and unwavering executive confidence in the reporting structure.

The Person

We seek a seasoned PMO leader with a proven track record in managing large-scale, complex programmes, particularly within ICT or infrastructure sectors. The ideal candidate will possess:

• Extensive PMO Experience: A minimum of 10 years leading PMOs on high-value, complex programmes, with a demonstrated ability to deliver tangible results.
• Methodology Expertise: Deep fluency in established project management methodologies such as PMBOK, MSP, PgMP, PRINCE2, or equivalent frameworks, ensuring adherence to best practices.
• Commercial Acumen: Strong commercial awareness, with experience in managing contract changes, scope variations, and vendor performance frameworks to safeguard programme interests.
• Multi-Vendor Leadership: A proven ability to lead and integrate reporting and governance across multiple vendors, fostering collaboration and accountability.
• Executive Presence: Exceptional communication and presentation skills, with the confidence to engage with steering committees and C-level sponsors, delivering clear, concise, and impactful insights.
• Industry Experience: While airport, aviation, or transport mega-programme experience is advantageous, it is not a strict requirement. GCC or KSA experience is considered a plus.

This role is not suited for individuals who merely compile reports. The PMO Senior Lead will play an active role in shaping governance decisions, challenging vendor performance, and providing executives with the critical information needed to drive informed action.

The Opportunity

This is a residential role based in Riyadh, offering a tax-free compensation package commensurate with senior programme leadership standards for a Vision 2030 flagship initiative. The package includes relocation support and full-time permanent employment. Detailed compensation and benefits will be provided to shortlisted candidates.

To apply or refer a qualified candidate, please contact Cliff van Tonder at Fintech HIRE via email at [email protected].