Contract Manager

NMDC Infra; Abu Dhabi; On-site; AED 200,000 - 300,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading construction and infrastructure firm in Abu Dhabi is seeking an experienced Contracts Manager to lead the contractual and commercial delivery of prime contracts. The ideal candidate will have 15-20 years of relevant experience, a degree in Engineering, and strong negotiation and risk management skills. This role emphasizes compliance with health & safety standards and maximizing bid profitability.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 15–20 years of relevant experience in tendering, contracts, or commercial management.
• Professional membership in recognized bodies like RICS or CIOB is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead the contractual and commercial delivery of all prime contracts.
• Ensure compliance with health & safety and sustainability standards.
• Develop and manage strategic contracts aligned with client requirements.
• Maximize bid profitability and cash flow.

Skills

Leadership

Commercial acumen

Contract management

Risk management

Negotiation

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering

Legal-related degree

Job description

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the contractual and commercial delivery of all prime contracts and subcontracts throughout the tendering lifecycle
• Ensure adequate commercial resources are allocated to support successful bid preparation and project delivery
• Demonstrate advanced commercial and technical acumen, collaborating closely with the Project Team to align tender strategies with operational goals
• Develop and manage strategic contracts that reflect client requirements, incorporating legal compliance, health & safety standards, fraud prevention, sustainability, and workforce considerations
• Ensure all contractual obligations are met, with a strong emphasis on health & safety and sustainability compliance
• Maintain and oversee risk registers during the tender phase to identify potential risks early and implement mitigation strategies
• Ensure full compliance with D&M’s Commercial Procedures and governance frameworks during bid development and submission
• Maximize bid profitability and cash flow by ensuring timely preparation of valuations, submission of invoices, and prompt payment follow-up
• Foster commercial awareness within tender and project teams, providing leadership, motivation, and guidance by example
• Manage the timely and strategic procurement of subcontractors and suppliers during the tender phase
• Take ownership of departmental objectives set by senior management and contribute to their achievement
• Support the Head of Contracts/Commercial in developing and executing supplier performance and contract management strategies
• Contribute to the preparation and management of the Commercial Department’s budget
• Drive optimal performance across major service contracts within the tender portfolio
• Lead the preparation and negotiation of contract variations, claims, and dispute resolutions
• Provide mentorship and guidance to assigned personnel, encouraging innovation, continuous learning, and cross-functional collaboration
• Offer expert contractual advice to internal departments, ensuring alignment with legislation, budget constraints, professional standards, and D&M’s core values
• Develop and manage strategic contracts in accordance with D&M’s vision, policies, and governance arrangements
• Support business continuity planning by offering expert input on contractual risk and resilience strategies
• Build strong working relationships with D&M’s Legal Services Department to address contractual terms, legislative updates, and legal compliance matters

Qualifications & Experience

• Minimum of 15–20 years of relevant experience in tendering, contracts, or commercial management within similar industries
• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or a related discipline; equivalent qualifications will be considered
• A legal-related degree is highly desirable
• Professional membership in recognized bodies such as RICS, CIOB, ICES, CIArb, or equivalent is preferred