Project management and urban development are becoming increasingly interdependent as global urbanization accelerates. These disciplines are central to creating sustainable, efficient, and inclusive cities that meet the needs of growing populations while addressing environmental and infrastructural challenges. Effective project management ensures the seamless execution of urban development projects, enabling the integration of advanced technologies, streamlined operations, and resource optimization. Urban development requires a multidisciplinary approach that aligns economic, social, and environmental goals, making project management indispensable in achieving balanced progress and cultivating innovation in urban planning and infrastructure development.

Dr. Waleed A. Sultan, the General Supervisor of Classification Development at the Ministry of Municipalities and Housing in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, is a leader renowned for his visionary thinking and innovative strategies. His leadership approach blends academic rigor with practical implementation, ensuring his teams consistently deliver results aligned with organizational objectives and national goals. With a strong focus on adaptability and empowerment, Dr. Waleed inspires collaboration and innovation across diverse teams, cultivating an environment of excellence reflective of his forward-looking mindset and strategic acumen.

The Ministry of Municipalities and Housing is committed to elevating national urban and infrastructure development standards. It strategically advances Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 by implementing forward-focused policies, driving digital transformation, and cultivating public-private partnerships. With its focus on innovation and sustainable growth, the Ministry is shaping the future of urban planning, ensuring progress that aligns with national and global development objectives. Through its initiatives, the organization continues to enhance the quality of life and contribute significantly to the nation’s socioeconomic advancement.

Let’s explore Dr. Waleed’s visionary leadership for urban innovation:  

Expertise in developing and implementing strategies

Dr. Waleed’s academic background provides a solid framework for addressing intricate organizational challenges and crafting innovative solutions. This foundation is built upon:

•          Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Management/Business
•          Doctorate in Business Administration (DBA)
•          Executive Master of Business Administration (EMBA)
•          Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering Sciences
•          Diploma in Financial Management Sciences

He has developed a unique interdisciplinary perspective by integrating engineering principles with business sciences and financial management. This academic base has been further enriched with globally recognized certifications in portfolio management, program and project management, risk management, organizational transformation, privatization, public-private partnerships (PPPs), and strategic planning.

Dr. Waleed has successfully directed large-scale initiatives that deliver measurable strategic value across public, semi-governmental, and private sectors. These initiatives underscore his capability to align organizational objectives with actionable plans and achieve impactful outcomes through meticulous execution.

His experience encompasses developing long-term and short-term strategies to enhance operational efficiency, drive growth, and ensure sustainability. Dr. Waleed has consistently demonstrated adaptability in crafting strategies that thrive in business environments.

His professional expertise is supported by a broad range of certifications in portfolio management, program and project management, risk management, business analysis, agile methodologies, public-private partnerships (PPPs), and strategic innovation. These certifications from prestigious universities and institutes worldwide equip him with internationally recognized frameworks and methods to deliver excellence, precision, and efficiency.

Dr. Waleed’s leadership style has been honed through extensive experience in multicultural and cross-sectoral environments. This exposure has enabled him to effectively manage cultural differences, nurture cohesive teams, and drive change management initiatives.

The cumulative expertise he has gained over two decades includes work in the government sector with the Ministry of Water and Electricity and the Ministry of Municipalities and Housing; the semi-governmental industry with the National Water Company and Saudi National Institute of Health; the private sector with EY, Parsons, and SBG Holding Company; and as a volunteer leader in multiple charitable organizations in the nonprofit sector.

This diverse background has equipped Dr. Waleed with multifaceted experiences and enabled him to excel in his professional, academic, and familial roles, enhancing the quality of decisions, the effectiveness of outcomes, and the distinction of performance.

As a thought leader, Dr. Waleed actively contributes to industry forums, conferences, and publications, sharing insights and pioneering best practices. For instance, he authored a study titled “An Integrated Study on the Relationship between Benefits Realization Management (BRM) and the National Transformation Program (NTP) in the Light of Saudi Arabia Vision 2030, Global Advanced Research Journal of Management and Business Studies, Nigeria, 2023.” This study underscores his ability to bridge theoretical frameworks with practical applications, strengthening his role as a visionary in aligning strategic initiatives with national development goals.

Aligning goals with Saudi Arabia Vision 2030

In his current role, he undertakes a multifaceted set of responsibilities that blend strategic vision, operational excellence, and innovative thinking. Aligned with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030, Dr. Waleed focuses on designing and implementing strategic frameworks for classification policies. He develops systems, regulations, and procedures for the classification process; conducts periodic market research and analysis to refine strategies; and leads the digital transformation of the classification product to improve efficiency and accessibility.

Additionally, he manages stakeholder relationships to ensure alignment with national goals and collaborative partnerships, oversees classification operations, and continuously monitors performance metrics. Dr. Waleed aligns classification objectives with ministry targets and the overarching goals of Vision 2030.

He crafts and monitors long- and short-term strategies to drive organizational success and sustainability. Dr. Waleed spearheads digital transformation initiatives that enhance operational processes and optimize resource allocation. He designs and implements comprehensive portfolio, program, and project frameworks while ensuring alignment with strategic objectives. He leads PPP initiatives and develops privatization strategies that unlock value and cultivate public-private collaboration. He manages risk assessment frameworks and contributes to high-level strategic decision-making.

Dr. Waleed drives initiatives to modernize and streamline processes across various sectors. He promotes a culture of innovation and excellence within teams and organizational structures. He leverages data analytics to enhance decision-making and improve service delivery. This role allows him to integrate strategic thinking with practical implementation, contributing directly to national development goals while maintaining a forward-looking vision for sustainable growth and transformation.

Data-Driven Decision-Making

Dr. Waleed’s leadership philosophy revolves around empowerment, innovation, and result-oriented strategies. He ensures that team efforts are seamlessly synchronized with organizational and national objectives, particularly those tied to Saudi Vision 2030. He leverages advanced analytics and evidence-based approaches to guide strategic choices and optimize outcomes. Dr. Waleed invests in the growth of team members to cultivate high-performing, resilient, and sustainable teams capable of addressing growing challenges.

Over two decades of diverse experience spanning government, semi-government, private, and nonprofit sectors, Dr. Waleed has transitioned from a directive leadership style to a participative and collaborative approach. This evolution reflects his belief in shared ownership of success and the value of inclusive decision-making. By creating a culture of trust, innovation, and accountability, he has been able to drive transformative change, enhance organizational performance, and inspire teams to achieve exceptional results.

Proactive Planning for Work-Life Balance

He balances his demanding professional role and personal commitments through effective time management and prioritization. He focuses on proactive planning by allocating dedicated time for work and individual activities to ensure a well-rounded balance, emphasizing preparation and organization. Dr. Waleed empowers his team by effectively delegating responsibilities, cultivating accountability, and ensuring smooth operations without micromanagement.

He maximizes productivity during working hours by maintaining focus and efficiency, which helps prevent work from encroaching on personal time. He adapts to changing circumstances while maintaining precise work and personal life boundaries, ensuring a sustainable balance. This approach guarantees professional productivity and personal stability, enabling him to thrive in both areas.

Engaging in Professional Development and Networking

Dr. Waleed adopts a proactive and multifaceted approach that highlights continuous learning to stay informed and seamlessly integrate cutting-edge scientific and professional methodologies into his work. He actively pursues the latest research, training programs, and resources related to strategic practices to stay ahead of industry trends.

He uses tools like VRIO to assess organizational resources, ensuring competitiveness, sustainability, and strategic alignment. Dr. Waleed participates in conferences, industry forums, and networking events to exchange insights and adopt best practices from thought leaders. He invests in upskilling teams by training them on emerging methodologies and cultivating a culture of innovation and strategic adaptability.

Dr. Waleed conducts rigorous research and publishes in high-impact, peer-reviewed journals, contributing to the global body of knowledge on advanced strategic methodologies. For instance, he accomplished a qualitative study of Portfolio Managers’ Awareness of Big Data Analytics (BDA) Role in Achieving Portfolio Management (PFM) Success in the European Journal of Business and Management, United Kingdom 2022. He closely monitors international developments and advancements in strategic methodologies, ensuring practices remain globally competitive and forward-looking.

This approach secures a sustainable competitive advantage and positions the organization at the forefront of strategic excellence. Additionally, Dr. Waleed has published over twenty research papers and articles in high-impact international journals in various fields, including management, engineering, technology, big data and artificial intelligence.

Empowering Local Markets and Contractors

Through his current role, Dr. Waleed makes a direct and meaningful contribution to achieving the objectives of Vision 2030 by empowering the local market. He equips contractors and engineering firms with tiered technical and financial capabilities to effectively meet diverse project demands. He ensures competitive performance, cost efficiency, and market resilience through strategic alignment and optimization. Dr. Waleed performs regular assessments to refine evaluation criteria, respond to economic shifts, and maintain relevance in the market environment.

Looking ahead, he aspires to enhance organizational efficiency and impact further through innovative strategies and high-impact project management practices. His focus areas include driving digital transformation using cutting-edge technologies to streamline processes, boost productivity, and enhance service quality. He also uses artificial intelligence techniques and big data analysis to support decision-making and business operations. To support long-term sustainability, he aligns organizational operations with environmental, social, and governance (ESG) standards. Dr. Waleed builds capacity, enhances skills, and nurtures a culture of innovation to drive continuous growth and adaptability.

These strategic pillars align closely with Vision 2030’s overarching goals. By leading initiatives that develop economic diversification, improve quality of life, and elevate Saudi Arabia’s global competitiveness, Dr. Waleed aims to empower the organizations he serves to contribute to this agenda. His commitment is to create a thriving ecosystem that not only meets current demands but also paves the way for sustainable growth and prosperity in the years to come.

Building Resilient Systems

Dr. Waleed advises aspiring leaders to embrace adaptability, pursue continuous learning, and lead purposefully. He believes success is about achieving goals, inspiring others, building resilient systems, and positively impacting industries and communities.

Writing as a Creative and Professional Pursuit

He takes great pride in his work as an author, as writing has always been a passion and an outlet for expressing insights and ideas that resonate deeply with leadership, strategy, personal growth and inspiring others. Dr. Waleed’s published works reflect his professional expertise and commitment to inspiring transformation. He has already authored two books as follows:

“Strategic Alignment in Portfolio, Program, and Project Management (3P’s): An Organizational Framework Aligned with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030” (2023).” This book provides a comprehensive framework for aligning organizational strategies with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, offering practical methodologies for enhancing performance and achieving long-term goals. It serves as a guide for leaders and professionals striving to build sustainable and competitive organizations.

“Leadership Styles of Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman: A New Leadership Model – S.A.U.D.I A.R.A.B.I.A (100 Lessons Learned)- 2023.” Focused on modern leadership practices, this book explores the leadership approach of Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman, extracting 100 valuable lessons that inspire innovation, adaptability, and transformation. It highlights the strategic foresight and visionary leadership that have driven Saudi Arabia’s progress, growth and prosperity.

Beyond these publications, Dr. Waleed is currently authoring a profoundly personal novel dedicated to his late mother, whom he lost last year. Scheduled for release in the second quarter of 2025, this novel blends emotion, storytelling, and reflection, showcasing his ability to connect with readers personally and emotionally.

Writing is a professional endeavor for Dr. Waleed and a creative pursuit that allows him to inspire, educate, and provoke thought. It demonstrates his versatility as a leader who values technical precision and emotional depth, making his contributions impactful professionally and personally.

Innovative Approaches in AI and Big Data Analytics

Dr. Waleed is an accomplished executive and transformational leader with over two decades of experience in portfolio, program, project, and risk management. His expertise spans business transformation, governance frameworks, and strategic planning, which align with Vision 2030 initiatives. He is recognized for managing large-scale projects, including the Riyadh Green Project and various public-private partnership initiatives.

He holds advanced degrees, including a Doctorate in Business Administration and an Executive MBA, and has completed certifications from esteemed institutions such as Harvard and PMI. His innovative approach integrates cutting-edge technologies, including artificial intelligence and big data analytics, to drive organizational success. He is also a thought leader, contributing extensively as an author and consultant in his field.

In his current role with the Ministry of Municipalities and Housing in Saudi Arabia, Dr. Waleed oversees contractor classification systems, performance management, and stakeholder engagement. He previously served as Project Director at Parsons Corporation, leading strategic execution and risk management initiatives. His tenure at Ernst & Young also involved advising on data and artificial intelligence programs for smart cities under Saudi Vision 2030, and he has managed several portfolios, programs and projects across various industries.

Dr. Waleed’s career highlights include roles with national and multinational entities, where he developed and implemented strategies to enhance operational efficiencies, managed large portfolios, and provided consultancy on PPP frameworks. His leadership extends to business development, governance, and training initiatives, underpinned by his commitment to organizational growth and value creation.

His educational foundation and diverse professional experience position him as a key advisor and leader in achieving transformational objectives across sectors.

Visionary Leadership and Inspiration

Dr. Waleed highlights that Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman is a visionary leader, not only for him but also for countless talented Saudis inspired by his vision and determination. His leadership reflects bold ambition, strategic foresight, and an unrelenting drive for progress—qualities that have profoundly influenced Dr. Waleed’s professional journey and aspirations.

Under his guidance, Saudi Arabia has transformed, redefining its economic framework and positioning itself as a global leader in innovation, sustainability, and cultural development. His ability to articulate a clear and ambitious roadmap through Vision 2030 has motivated individuals and organizations to think bigger, act bolder, and pursue excellence without limits.

Dr. Waleed draws inspiration from his ability to balance tradition with modernity, ensuring that Saudi Arabia remains rooted in its heritage while embracing advancements. His focus on empowering youth, promoting innovation, and advancing gender equality resonates deeply with Dr. Waleed’s values and professional philosophy.

Moreover, his leadership has instilled in Dr. Waleed a sense of purpose and responsibility to contribute to this journey. Whether through strategic initiatives, groundbreaking projects, or capacity-building programs, Dr. Waleed sees his role as part of a more considerable collective effort to achieve the aspirations of Vision 2030 and leave a legacy of sustainable progress.

Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s vision is a guiding light, reminding everyone that leadership is about inspiring others, creating opportunities, and driving impactful change. He has redefined what is possible, and his example continues to motivate Dr. Waleed and countless others to lead with courage, creativity, and conviction.

Legacy of Operational Excellence and Innovation

With a career defined by strategic leadership, continuous learning, and a commitment to innovation, Dr. Waleed has established a legacy of operational excellence and sustainable impact. His ability to align organizational strategies with long-term visions, empower diverse teams, deliver meaningful results and make radical changes positions him as a leader capable of navigating intricacies and achieving lasting value.

Over the past two decades, Dr. Waleed has focused on building frameworks that drive transformation, enhance competitiveness, and create resilient ecosystems. His published works thought leadership and strategic contributions have supported organizational growth and advanced broader national objectives, particularly those aligned with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030.

Looking ahead, his aspirations are deeply rooted in continuing to shape the future through innovation, digital transformation, and sustainable development. He aims to further strengthen his role as a thought leader by mentoring the next generation of professionals, influencing global practices, and spearheading projects that leave a lasting impact. Additionally, he aspires to expand his research and thought leadership contributions by authoring more works that inspire change and provide actionable insights.

Ultimately, Dr. Waleed’s goal is to create a legacy that transcends achievements and cultivates a culture of progress, resilience, and purpose—empowering organizations and individuals to thrive globally.

Authorship & Research Achievement

Dr. Waleed A. Sultan’s achievements in authorship and research are extensive and impactful, contributing significantly to strategic alignment, leadership, big data analytics, and project management, with a strong focus on Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030. Here are the achievements of Dr. Waleed A. Sultan, showcasing his extensive contributions to authorship and research:

• Book Titled: “Strategic Alignment in Portfolio, Program, and Project Management (3P’s): An Organizational Framework Aligned with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030”,2023
• Book Titled: “Leadership Styles of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman: A New Leadership Model – S.A.U.D.I A.R.A.B.I.A (100 Lessons Learned)”, 2023
• Big Data Analytic Capabilities and Performance of Saudi Tourism Firms: Examining the Moderating Role of Business Strategy Alignment, Pakistan Journal of Live and Social Sciences, Malaysia, 2024
• Examining the Influence of Various Big Data Capabilities on Tourism Firms in Saudi Arabia, Big Data Research Journal, USA, 2024
• A Comprehensive Review of the Multifaceted Influence of Big Data Analytics Capability on Organizational Performance, Academy of Entrepreneurship Journal, United Kingdom, 2023
• Designing a Comprehensive Risk Management Framework for International Business Scale up, International Journal of Humanities and Social Science Invention (IJHSSI), India, 2023
• Investigating the Mediating Role of Project Risk Management on the Relationship between Project Complexity and Project Success: An Applied Study on Saudi Construction Companies, International Journal of Business and Management Invention (IJBMI) – India – 2023
• Global Ambitions Unleashed: The Ascending Power of Saudi Arabia’s Projects in the International Marketplace, International Journal of Humanities and Social Science Invention (IJHSSI), India, 2023
• Mastering Project Success: Exploring the 5 Levels of the Capability Maturity Model (CMM) and its Impact on Saudi Arabian Projects – International Journal of Engineering and Science Invention (IJESI), India, 2023
• Optimizing CEO Selection in Saudi Arabia: A Study on Strategies for Identifying and Recruiting Top-Performing Chief Executive Officers (CEO), International Journal of Business and Management Invention (IJBMI), India, 2023
• The Mystery of the Successful of Saudi Arabia Projects through Applying OGSM Framework, New York Science Journal, New York, 2023
• Best Practices for Corporate Governance and Compliance: A new Managerial Approach: 15 Applicable Implementation Secrets, Journal of American Science, New York, 2023
• Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), Key Result Indicators (KRIs) and Objectives and Key Results (OKRs) – A New Key Incorporated Results (KIRs) Approach, Information and Knowledge Management Journal, Nigeria, 2023
• VRIO Analysis Framework in Project Management (PM) Comprehensive Approach, International Journal of Business and Management Invention (IJBMI), India, 2023
• A Framework of Project Management Success in the Entrainment Sector in Saudi Arabia, International Journal of Current Research, India, 2023
• An integrated study on the relationship between Benefits Realization Management (BRM) and the National Transformation Program (NTP) in the light of Saudi Arabia Vision 2030, Global Advanced Research Journal of Management and Business Studies, Nigeria, 2023
• The Relationship between Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Portfolio Management (PFM) Theoretical Study, Merit Research Journal of Business and Management, London, 2023
• An Assessment of Portfolio Managers’ Awareness of Big Data Analytics (BDA) Role in Achieving Portfolio Management (PFM) Success: A Qualitative Study, European Journal of Business and Management, United Kingdom,2022

These achievements highlight Dr. Waleed’s contributions to advancing scientific knowledge, fostering innovation, and supporting national efforts to achieve Saudi Vision 2030, making him one of his field’s leading researchers and writers.”

Apart from his work and development field, and to maintain a balance between public life and work, Dr. Waleed engages in various sports such as tennis and bodybuilding to support overall health, relieve stress and tension, restore energy, and clear the mind for better focus.”