Overhaul Project Manager F/M

Overhaul Project Manager F/M 

Engineering 

Keolis, a global leader in shared mobility, makes life easier for millions of passengers. We offer safe, efficient and sustainable public transport solutions that enhance the appeal of local communities.

In 2024, the Group achieved a revenue of 7.7 billion euros. Present in 13 countries, we believe that our 70,000 employees are the key to our success.

As part of an on-going tender for the operations, maintenance, and overhaul of a medium-sized rail transport system in the United Arab Emirates, we are seeking to identify and engage exceptional talent. The appointment of this role will be subject to the successful award of the contract. The position offers a unique opportunity to play a pivotal role in planning, leading and delivering safe, efficient and cost controlled multiple system overhaul ranging from rolling stock, signaling, track switches to power distribution system.

Key responsabilities

Strategic

1. Develop and manage detailed project plans for system overhauls, including scheduling, budgeting, resource allocation, and risk management
2. Engage closely with Client to develop and maintain strong relationship, ensure contractual compliance and address issues.
3. Provide leadership, planning, and managing the development and implementation of policies, procedures and work instructions for achieving overhaul targets ensuring on time, quality and safe delivery.
4. Engage closely Overhaul supply chain stakeholders (Original Equipment Manufacturers - OEMs) to maintain strong relationship, ensuring delivery in line with performance targets and maximising financial opportunities.
5. Ensure all overhaul activities comply with industry standards, regulatory requirements, and manufacturer specifications
6. Lead and drive engineering and risk-based review of the Overhaul scope for each system and proactively propose Value Engineering initiatives
7. Implement and manager a robust reporting, risk assessment, performance and compliance monitoring system in relations to Overhaul activities and ensure efficient communication with relevant stakeholder (Management, Client, Safety Regulator…)

Operational

1. Oversee and lead Overhaul program – for the critical systems of train, signalling, track switches and power - to ensure high service quality and reliability, delivering continuous improvement throughout the contract
2. Promote a culture of safety, reliability, and customer satisfaction
3. Implement safety and quality standards to ensure passenger and employee safety
4. Enforce strict adherence to safety protocols, conduct risk assessments, and ensure compliance with local, national, and international regulations (e.g., OHSAS, ISO standards)
5. Support General Manager and QHSE Lead to engage closely with the Safety Regulator, providing regular updates on mitigation measures and progress of Overhaul plan – developing a trustful and transparent relationship
6. Lead and manage the Overhaul teams ensuring Overhaul delivery in line with plan, procedures and performance objectives, meeting the technical and financial targets.
7. Drive identification and risk assessment of efficiency and Value Engineering initiatives within the Overhaul programme (optimisation in timeline, scope and supply chain) to deliver benefits for the Operator and/or Client
8. Work closely with contractors, suppliers and service providers to ensure clear expectations, performance standards, and alignment with Overhaul objectives.
9. Work closely with procurement team, suppliers, contractors and other stakeholders to procure parts, manage contracts, and ensure timely delivery of materials and services
10. Work closely with Operations and Maintenance team to align the Overhaul programme with operational constraints
11. Conduct periodic meetings with stakeholders to ensure alignment on Overhaul and maintenance strategies and address concerns.
12. Maintain accurate records of Overhaul activities, prepare progress reports, and provide recommendations for system improvements
13. Implement feedback systems to address stakeholder concerns promptly and enhance overhaul delivery.
14. Carry out 24-hour on-call responsibility for incidents and emergency within its section

Financial

1. Monitor project expenditures, optimize resource use, and report on financial performance to senior management
2. Oversee, manage, and control budgets, forecasts, and financial targets for the overhaul program
3. Monitor financial performance and implement cost control measures to ensure profitability and sustainability
4. Manage risks and develop mitigation strategies to address potential challenges
5. Drive financial performance and optimisation, in close relationship with Keolis Platform – especially to maximise the benefits of Shared Services

People

1. Lead, motivate and develop a high-performing team and foster a collaborative work environment.
2. Act as a technical expert to provide suggestions and guidance to the Overhauls team and the wider business to improve the existing procedures and work instructions, system modifications, new works planning and implementation.
3. Ensure robust competence management and training processes are in place to deliver safe and efficient overhaul services in line with applicable regulatory requirements
4. Ensure robust succession planning, talent development, and workforce engagement initiatives.
5. Champion diversity, equity, and inclusion across the workforce.
6. Lead by example in promoting integrity, professionalism, and organizational values.

Key competencies 

• In-depth understanding of metropolitan rail or transit system maintenance, including complex repairs, overhauling and design concept. Technical capability to lead engineering review and Value Engineering
• Familiarity with managing/leading major maintenance projects, repairs or overhauls of railway systems (mainline, metro, tram etc) including performance monitoring and compliance.
• Knowledge of relevant transportation regulations, safety standards, and industry best practices
• Project management skills, including planning, reporting, budgeting, forecasting in a infrastructure/transportation setting.
• Experience working with government agencies and regulatory bodies
• Proficiency in identifying and mitigating safety, performance and financial risks.
• Knowledge of HR best practices, including leadership development and organizational culture.

Behavioural Competencies

• Possess good communication skills and the ability to manage multiple tasks efficiently and work productively in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.
• Strong organizational skills, detail oriented, and the ability to handle multiple priorities.
• Highly motivated and flexibility to work in a time-sensitive environment to respond quickly and effectively to unanticipated high workloads, events and emergencies.
• Ability to think laterally and analysis and assess a range of information.
• Ability to multi-task and analysis situations promptly and without bias to determine the proper course of action or alternatives without jeopardizing human safety, quality and the committed performance targets.
• Thorough understanding of all aspects of safety issues related to railway operations.
• Adaptability to rapidly changing operational needs and stakeholder expectations.
• Effective negotiation skills to manage contracts, suppliers, partnerships, and stakeholder agreements.
• Strong analytical skills to identify problems, evaluate solutions, and implement effective strategies.
• Ability to build and maintain positive relationships with various stakeholders, addressing their concerns and aligning their interests with the project's goals.

Qualifications