Commercial Director

JLL; Dubai; On-site; AED 400,000 - 500,000; Full time

Job summary

A premier global real estate firm in Dubai is seeking a Commercial Director to lead commercial activities for prestigious residential developments. The role involves managing project budgets, overseeing contract negotiations, and driving business development. Ideal candidates will have 12+ years in construction, with extensive UAE market knowledge and a strong background in project management for large-scale residential projects. The position offers on-site work in Dubai, providing an opportunity to significantly impact project profitability and client relationships.

Qualifications

• 12+ years of commercial experience in the construction industry.
• 5 years of experience in UAE with knowledge of the local market.
• Experience managing large-scale residential construction projects.

Responsibilities

• Lead all commercial activities for prestigious residential developments.
• Manage project budgets and financial performance.
• Identify and pursue new business opportunities.

Skills

Commercial strategy management

Risk assessment

Financial performance monitoring

Client relationship management

Negotiation skills

Education

BA/BSc in Quantity Surveying or related field

MRICS membership

Relevant commercial/contracts certifications

Job description

Commercial Director

What this job involves:

The Commercial Director will lead all commercial activities for multiple prestigious residential developments at an Executive Cost Management level, ensuring profitable delivery while maintaining client relationships. This senior role combines strategic commercial oversight with operational excellence to maximize project value and organizational profitability.

What your day-to-day will look like:

Commercial Strategy & Management

• Manage project budgets, forecasting and financial performance monitoring
• Lead tender preparation, pricing strategies and bid submissions
• Oversee contract negotiations, risk assessment and commercial terms
• Ensure compliance with contractual obligations and commercial governance

Business Development

• Identify and pursue new business opportunities and market sectors
• Build and maintain relationships with key clients, consultants and stakeholders
• Lead strategic partnerships and joint venture negotiations
• Represent the company at industry events and client presentations
• Drive revenue growth and market share expansion

Team Leadership

• Lead and expand the site commercial team
• Establish commercial processes, procedures and best practices
• Foster a culture of commercial excellence and continuous improvement

Risk & Performance Management

• Identify, assess and mitigate commercial and contractual risks
• Oversee claims management, variations and dispute resolution
• Monitor project margins, cash flow and profitability KPIs
• Implement commercial controls and reporting systems
• Ensure projects are delivered within budget and timeline parameters

Required Skills and Experience

Education & Professional Credentials

• BA/BSc in Quantity Surveying, Construction Management, Engineering or related field
• MRICS membership
• Relevant commercial/contracts certifications

Experience

• 12 years of commercial experience in the construction industry
• 5 years of experience in the UAE with in-depth knowledge of the local construction market
• 8 years of experience working for tier‑1 international Cost Management companies
• Experience managing projects at a programme level for large‑scale masterplans
• Proven track record managing large‑scale residential construction projects (€1Bn)
• Experience across multiple construction sectors (commercial, residential, infrastructure)
• Strong background in contract administration and commercial law

Desired or Preferred Experience and Technical Skills

• Advanced knowledge of construction contracts (JCT, NEC, FIDIC)
• Expert‑level commercial and financial acumen
• Strong negotiation and relationship management skills
• Board‑level presentation experience
• Excellent written, verbal and presentation communication abilities
• Strategic thinking with attention to operational details

Location

On‑site, Dubai, UAE

Required Experience

Director

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