Let’s find your next opportunity
AI Assistant: {{ chat.assistant.message }}
Suggested roles matches
Sort By
{{ job.job_posting_title
}}
{{ job.job_posting_title }}
{{ job.is_cms_job ? (job.cities.split(';').length > 1 ? 'Various locations' : job.location_mappings[0]) : (job.location_mappings.length > 1 ? 'Various locations' : job.location_mappings[0]) }}
We are sorry there are no jobs that match your exact criteria. Try a new search term, or use the filters to continue browsing for available opportunities.
Suggested roles matches
{{ job.title }}
{{ job.title }}
{{ [job.cities[0], job.regions[0], job.countries[0]].join(', ') }}
Various locations
We are sorry there are no jobs that match your exact criteria. Try a new search term, or use the filters to continue browsing for available opportunities.
Let’s find your next opportunity
{{ job.job_posting_title
}}
{{ job.job_posting_title }}
{{ job.is_cms_job ? (job.cities.split(';').length > 1 ? 'Various locations' : job.location_mappings[0]) : (job.location_mappings.length > 1 ? 'Various locations' : job.location_mappings[0]) }}
Navigating the complex world of project management in Saudi Arabia requires a blend of strategic insight, cultural understanding, and a commitment to nurturing local talent. With the ambitious Vision 2030 driving change and innovation across the Kingdom, organizations like AtkinsRéalis are at the forefront of leading successful projects while empowering local professionals. This article explores the critical role of local talent development in Saudi Arabian projects, drawing insights from leaders like Kamran Raza, a Project Director at AtkinsRéalis.
A journey of leadership and growth
Kamran Raza's career spans over 22 years, with extensive experience across the United Kingdom, and the Middle East, including Oman, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia. Joining AtkinsRéalis in January 2020, Kamran has been instrumental in project management and consultancy (EPMO, PMO, PMC) areas, ensuring client success through strategic leadership. His role as Project Director at AtkinsRéalis in Saudi Arabia involves leading delivery teams on key accounts such as the Diriyah Gate Development Authority (DGDA) and the Royal Commission of AlUla (RCU).
Driving team success with strategic initiatives
In the dynamic landscape of Saudi Arabian projects, Kamran Raza has implemented strategies that emphasize service delivery, collaboration, and integrity. These initiatives include:
Service delivery with core values: Aligning delivery teams with the core values of AtkinsRéalis to ensure consistent quality and client satisfaction.
Breaking down silos: Encouraging collaboration and knowledge sharing among team members to foster innovative solutions and effective outcomes.
Integrity and trust: Building a culture of integrity where team members deliver on their promises, creating trust with clients and stakeholders.
Fostering a diverse environment: Promoting diversity within teams to enhance creativity and build a familial culture.
Fostering collaboration for collective success
At AtkinsRéalis, collaboration is key to driving success in Saudi Arabian projects. Leveraging the strengths of a global community of professionals, Kamran Raza emphasizes the importance of knowledge sharing and teamwork. By aligning team members with Vision 2030, projects align with the Kingdom's long-term goals, ensuring collective success.
Aligning with Vision 2030
Vision 2030 is a driving force behind numerous initiatives in Saudi Arabia. Kamran Raza's approach involves understanding client vision and objectives, particularly focusing on developing Saudi talent and creating future leaders. By fostering communication and collaboration, project teams align their efforts with the overarching goals of Vision 2030.
Initiatives for Saudi talent development
Kamran Raza's focus on local talent development is evident through various initiatives supporting Saudi nationals' career advancement. These initiatives include:
Internal development opportunities: Providing internal Saudi staff with opportunities based on experience and qualifications, identifying gaps and offering training or mentorship where needed.
External recruitment drives: Partnering with talent acquisition teams to recruit Saudi nationals based on expertise and potential.
Graduate training programs: Launching graduate training programs under the EPMO team, offering real-world experience and career development paths. The first batch of graduates completed the program in 2023, with subsequent batches increasing in size and success.
Career development plans: Crafting career development plans focusing on technical, management, and soft skills to support long-term growth.
Leadership role in success
Leadership is crucial in driving Saudization and localization efforts within project frameworks. The support of leadership at AtkinsRéalis ensures talented Saudi nationals join prestigious accounts, training and developing their skills while contributing to project success.
The impact of team growth on AlUla projects is significant, with high-quality outcomes fostering client trust and strengthening relationships. The success of the EPMO commission is a testament to the dedication and performance of teams at AtkinsRéalis, contributing to the larger business footprint.
The success of Saudization and localization efforts is exemplified by numerous success stories within the AlUla EPMO program. Graduates have benefited from exchange programs, cultural exchanges, and secured careers within the business. We currently have around 15 graduates based in AlUla.
Overcoming challenges with training programs
Preparing training courses and materials to support Saudi graduates is a challenge that has been successfully addressed. The EPMO team's efforts in designing development programs have been instrumental, with support from mentors and leaders within the organization. This alignment with Vision 2030 is a source of pride and a testament to the collective efforts of all involved.
Driving success in Saudi Arabian projects requires a strategic focus on local talent development. Leaders like Kamran Raza at AtkinsRéalis exemplify the impact of these efforts, fostering a culture of growth, innovation, and inclusivity. By investing in the development of Saudi nationals and supporting their career advancement, organizations can ensure long-term success and contribute to the Kingdom's ambitious goals.
For more information about career opportunities and initiatives at AtkinsRéalis, explore opportunities here to become part of this exciting journey.
Related blogs
This International Women’s Day, we asked our people to share their stories...
From bold pivots to global impact, these stories redefine what’s possible. Read how women at AtkinsRéalis are shaping the future with purpose.
How Somali built a 20 Year engineering career and advocates for everyday equality
Meet Somali, a trailblazer in instrumentation and automation, and read how she shaped a thriving career across continents.
“I don’t wait for opportunities, I prepare for them and create them”: Building a career Jessica designed herself
From diving deep into data to diving into the ocean, Jessica thrives on challenge and growth. Read how she turned curiosity and initiative into a purpose‑driven career.
“Step into the discomfort of being seen”: Mamta on saying yes, earning two charterships in a year, and why visibility isn’t self-promotion
From Mumbai to projects across five countries, read how Mamta built a career powered by collaboration and courage.
From a LinkedIn message to leading talent strategy across regions: Meet Doaa
Discover Doaa’s journey from design to strategic talent leadership. Read how she fast tracked her growth and built strong hiring practices across regions.
From hiring strategies to nursery rhymes in minutes. Meet Sameera
From career leadership to motherhood’s lessons, meet Sameera and read how her story celebrates strength, growth, and belonging.
Step out of your comfort zone and build relationships: Jo looks back at twenty-five years with AtkinsRéalis and what has shaped her career
Discover Jo’s journey from volunteer work in Soweto to leading major UK planning projects. Read how courage and collaboration defined her path.
“Clarity isn’t arrogance”: Katiana on leading through complexity, treatment, and the woodland where she breathes properly again
From complex programmes to personal resilience, Katiana leads with empathy and strength. Read how her journey reshapes what strength looks like in the workplace.
17 years, one pencil, and a career she has never left: Clare on flood risk, Brownies, and being yourself
From “real life geography” to global adventures, read how Clare’s passion, people first leadership, and purpose continue to drive her forward.
“Visibility changes perception”: Milena on leadership, confidence, and her journey from London to Dubai
Discover Milena’s path to becoming one of CIBSE’s youngest Fellows, read how visibility and representation shaped her leadership philosophy.
A British champion, a regional director working part-time, and a strong believer in beautiful deviations. Meet Tracey.
From driving bold career moves to embracing fearless new beginnings, Tracey’s journey is anything but ordinary. Discover how she balances part‑time work with purpose, resilience, and growth.
“Your career growth is only limited by the ambition you harbour”: Piriya on 14 years, three countries, and the manager who changed everything
From Bengaluru to Ireland and back, read how Piriya built a global engineering career grounded in resilience and ambition.
Related jobs
We are sorry there are no jobs that match your exact criteria. Try a new search term, or use the filters to continue browsing for available opportunities.
Everyone belongs
We empower each individual to shine and contribute to our collective impact. We believe in the power of unique perspectives. It’s how we’re engineering a better future every single day.