Senior Projects Manager

Cognita isa global leader in independent education. Founded in 2004, we are a growingcommunity of 100+ schools in 16 countries - in Europe, North America, Latin America, Asia and the Middle East - serving more than 85,000 students. Each ofour schools are proudly unique, however our collective purpose is to create anenvironment where everyone can, ‘Thrive in a rapidly evolving world’.At Cognita, we know every student is unique. We nurture their distinctpersonalities and strengths. We support them academically, socially, andemotionally, wherever they are in the world, wherever they’re starting from. Weprotect what’s special about them, while offering them rich knowledge,opportunities, and best practices. And they get to be part of something bigger;ensuring they get an education that’s, quite literally, world class.We areseeking a highly experienced Senior Projects Manager with a strongbackground in delivering K–12 school development and education infrastructureprojects across the Middle East. This role will lead the full projectlifecycle, from strategic planning and design through to construction,handover, and post-occupancy evaluation.The idealcandidate will have deep knowledge of regional standards, curriculum-drivenspace planning, and a proven ability to navigate complex stakeholderenvironments including ministries, consultants, and contractors.Key Responsibilities Project Management & Execution Lead end to end delivery of K–12 education projects across the GCC.Ensure compliance with international curriculum standards (British,IB, American).Obtain approvals from ministries of education and relevantauthorities.Coordinate closely with developers, architects, engineers,consultants, and contractors.Develop project scopes, schedules, budgets, and detailed workplans.Monitor progress using industry standard tools and report to seniorleadership.Manage resources across internal and external teams.Proactively identify risks and implement mitigation strategies.Maintain high quality outcomes aligned with client and regulatoryexpectations.Conduct post project evaluations for continuous improvement.Mentor junior team members and promote knowledge sharing.Budget& Resource Management Oversee budgets ranging from US$20m to US$100m.Track financial performance and resource allocation to ensureefficiency.Adjust plans dynamically to maintain schedule and budget integrity.Required Skills & Experience Bachelor’s degree in Project Management, Engineering, Architecture,or a related field.Master’s degree or PMP certification preferred.Minimum of 10 years’ experience in project management, with atleast 3 years leading education or school infrastructure projects in the Middle East.Proven track record managing large scale capital projects.In depth understanding of GCC regulatory and approval frameworks.Experience with curriculum led design (labs, libraries,multipurpose halls).Proficiency in tools such as MS Project, Primavera P6, Jira, or Aconex.Strong leadership, communication, and stakeholder managementcapabilities.Expertise in budgeting, scheduling, and contract administration.Knowledge of sustainability frameworks (LEED, Estidama, etc.).Excellent negotiation and reporting skills.Culturally adept with the ability to engage diverse teams andstakeholders.Why Join Cognita?At Cognita,we’re not just building schools, we’re shaping futures.As a memberof our team, you will: Lead the design and delivery of innovative, future ready learningenvironments that inspire the next generation.Drive high impact projects that support regional growth and elevateeducational excellence across the Middle East.Collaborate with passionate experts in architecture, education, anddevelopment within a globally respected and values driven education group.Join a purpose led, ambitious, and forward thinking organisationthat values innovation, integrity, and long term impact Pleasenote, this role is office based (Dubai, UAE) with local and regional sitevisits as required.Cognitais committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and youngpeople and expects all staff, volunteers, and other third parties to share thiscommitment. Safer recruitment practices and pre-employment background checkswill be undertaken before any appointment is confirmed. #J-18808-Ljbffr