WSP is seeking an experienced Operational Readiness Manager to join a major Roads & Highways Construction Supervision project in Riyadh.
The successful candidate will be responsible for ensuring the project is fully prepared for operational handover, overseeing all testing & commissioning, handover processes, and documentation readiness. This role requires strong coordination with contractors, stakeholders, and multidisciplinary teams to ensure a seamless transition from construction into operations.
Responsibilities:
Operational Readiness & Handover
- Lead the development and implementation of the Operational Readiness strategy and plan for the project
- Manage the full handover lifecycle, ensuring assets are transferred in line with client and regulatory requirements
- Ensure all systems, assets, and infrastructure are fully tested, commissioned, and operationally ready prior to handover
- Oversee preparation and validation of handover documentation, including as-built documentation, O&M manuals, asset registers, and warranties
- Coordinate with client teams to ensure alignment with operational requirements and readiness criteria
Testing & Commissioning
- Oversee end-to-end Testing & Commissioning (T&C) activities across all project elements (civil, utilities, ITS, etc.)
- Review and approve Contractor documentation including commissioning plans, procedures, and reports submitted by contractors
- Ensure all tests are conducted in accordance with project specifications, international standards, and authority requirements
- Monitor progress of T&C activities and ensure timely closure of defects, snags, and outstanding works
Contractor & Stakeholder Management
- Manage contractors and subcontractors to ensure readiness deliverables are met on time and to a high standard
- Coordinate closely with supervision teams, design teams, and client representatives
- Lead commissioning and handover meetings, ensuring clear communication and issue resolution and prepare minutes as required
- Interface with relevant authorities and stakeholders to ensure approvals and compliance requirements are achieved
Documentation & Compliance
- Establish and manage a structured system for document control and handover submissions
- Ensure completeness, accuracy, and quality of all handover packages and submissions
- Track and manage non-compliances, snags, and documentation gaps, ensuring timely resolution
- Ensure adherence to local authority regulations and client-specific requirements in Saudi Arabia
Reporting & Governance
- Prepare regular reports on operational readiness status, risks, and key milestones
- Identify risks to successful handover and implement mitigation strategies
- Support senior leadership and client in decision-making related to readiness and project close-out
Qualifications:
- Minimum 15 years’ experience in infrastructure projects, with a strong focus on roads & highways
- Proven experience in operational readiness, testing & commissioning, and handover management on large-scale infrastructure projects
- Strong experience working within the Middle East, preferably in Saudi Arabia or GCC environments
- Solid understanding of construction supervision, asset handover processes, and project close-out requirements
- Experience managing contractors and coordinating multidisciplinary teams
- Familiarity with international standards and local authority requirements related to T&C and handover
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