Job Description

The Senior Manager Stakeholder & Permitting leads the Stakeholder & Permitting team, ensuring all permitting processes comply with organizational policies and regulatory requirements. This role provides strategic oversight and enhances permitting operations, playing a pivotal part in the successful execution of capital and construction projects within Abu Dhabi Airports.

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain a permitting tracker to monitor ongoing applications and approvals.
• Ensure timely submission of permits, licenses, and regulatory approvals.
• Troubleshoot operational challenges to minimize delays in projects.
• Standardize and document operational workflows for clarity and consistency.
• Monitor project progress related to permits and approvals, aligning with project schedules.
• Develop and implement initiatives to streamline stakeholder interactions and permitting processes.
• Identify process improvement opportunities and implement best practices.
• Collaborate with internal departments to align permitting strategies with organizational goals.
• Manage stakeholder relations, ensuring compliance with local laws and regulations.
• Build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, including government agencies, utility providers, contractors, and consultants.
• Act as primary liaison for external parties to address concerns and foster collaboration.
• Coordinate with government agencies to ensure timely acquisition of permits for capital projects.
• Maintain comprehensive knowledge of relevant regulations.
• Monitor permitting processes for compliance with standards, procedures, contracts, and regulations.
• Provide leadership and oversight for regulatory submissions and local permitting activities.
• Identify, assess, and mitigate risks related to permitting and stakeholder interactions.
• Provide regular reports to senior management on permitting status, stakeholder issues, and risks.
• Recommend actionable solutions for regulatory or permitting challenges.
• Lead, mentor, and develop the Stakeholder & Permitting team, fostering accountability, excellence, and continuous improvement.
• Set performance objectives, provide feedback, and conduct professional development initiatives.
• Ensure efficient team operations through training and resource provision.
• Conduct performance appraisals and recommend actions in coordination with HR.
• Identify training needs and evaluate training outcomes with HR.
• Work with HR to forecast future manpower requirements.
• Seek professional development opportunities aligned with ADA values.
• Participate in performance appraisals and implement manager feedback.
• Maintain a safe, organized workspace and encourage a safe work environment.
• Report hazards or unsafe conditions.
• Follow safety guidelines and promote compliance among peers.
• Perform any other responsibilities assigned by the Line Manager to meet divisional objectives.

Requirements and Skills

Top Competencies Required:

• Customer focus
• Strong knowledge of Abu Dhabi’s regulatory framework and permitting requirements
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills
• Ability to manage complex stakeholder relationships and deliver under tight deadlines
• Proficiency in project management tools and software
• Strong written and oral communication skills
• High commercial acumen
• Relationship management
• Comfort with analytics and numbers
• Ability to perform under pressure and meet tight deadlines
• Safety and compliance focus
• Digital skills

Education and Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Urban Planning, Business Administration, or related field (Master’s preferred)

Experience:

• Minimum 8 years in stakeholder management and permitting processes, preferably in large-scale infrastructure, construction, or airport projects
• At least 3 years in a leadership/managerial position overseeing teams and strategic operations
• Extensive experience in stakeholder management, permitting, and regulatory compliance in large infrastructure or airport development projects