Head of MEP - Luxury Hospitality Development, Makkah

About the role

A well-established Saudi real estate developer and main contractor, known for large-scale high-rise, hospitality, mixed-use and commercial developments, is launching a major new project in Makkah and is looking for an experienced, internationally minded Head of MEP. The role leads the complete MEP delivery function, from design review and technical coordination through construction, testing, commissioning and handover, working with project leadership, consultants, contractors, specialist subcontractors and hotel operators.

Key responsibilities

• Provide strategic and technical leadership for all MEP disciplines (HVAC, electrical distribution, fire protection, plumbing, ELV, BMS and commissioning)
• Lead MEP delivery from design review through construction, testing, commissioning and handover
• Manage MEP consultants, contractors, suppliers and specialist subcontractors
• Review and approve shop drawings, material submittals, technical specifications and value-engineering proposals
• Coordinate MEP with architectural and structural disciplines
• Monitor construction progress and resolve technical issues affecting cost, quality or programme
• Ensure compliance with the Saudi Building Code, Civil Defence requirements and international hospitality standards
• Lead testing, commissioning, balancing and performance verification
• Establish and maintain MEP QA/QC procedures
• Monitor budgets, costs, variations and claims, and develop recovery and mitigation strategies
• Mentor the MEP engineering team and prepare executive-level reporting on progress, risks, commissioning and milestones

Required profile

• Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, electrical engineering or a related discipline
• Minimum 7-10 years of professional construction experience in the DACH region, with 15+ years of senior construction experience in Germany, Austria or Switzerland, plus substantial overall MEP experience
• Proven track record on high-rise, five-star hospitality, luxury hotel or major mixed-use projects
• Strong contractor, consultant and subcontractor management experience; experience with complex projects and demanding schedules
• Saudi/GCC project experience highly advantageous; knowledge of the Saudi Building Code and Civil Defence requirements is an advantage
• Perfect command of English is mandatory; Arabic is an advantage
• Willingness to be permanently based on site in Makkah, five days per week

Required skills

• HVAC, electrical distribution, fire protection, plumbing, ELV, BMS and commissioning
• MEP project management
• Leadership, communication, negotiation and stakeholder management

What we offer

• One-year renewable contract with a minimum of 5 years
• Base salary from SAR 960,000 gross, depending on experience and qualifications
• Performance bonus of up to 3 months' salary
• Medical insurance for the holder and family, company car, annual return flights and 30 days paid leave