Contracts Manager

Arabian Construction Co.; Abu Dhabi; On-site; AED 250,000 - 350,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading construction firm in the UAE is seeking an experienced Contract Manager to administer the Prime Contract with ADNOC and manage commercial issues. The ideal candidate should have over 15 years of experience in contract management, especially within EPC projects, and strong expertise in FIDIC contracts. Responsibilities include claims management, subcontractor performance monitoring, and leading negotiations. This position offers competitive compensation and the opportunity to work in a dynamic team environment.

Qualifications

• Minimum 15+ years of progressive experience in Contract and Commercial Management within EPC projects.
• Proven track record in managing ADNOC projects or similar large-scale contracts.
• Strong expertise in FIDIC-based contracts and claims preparation.

Responsibilities

• Administer the Prime Contract with ADNOC and ensure compliance.
• Prepare, evaluate, and defend contractual claims.
• Draft, review, and finalize subcontract agreements.

Skills

Communications Skills

Analytical Skills

Leadership Skills

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering, Quantity Surveying, or Law

Master’s Degree or Diploma in Contracts Management

Certification in FIDIC Contract Administration

Job description

Key Responsibilities

Contract Administration & Compliance

• Administer the Prime Contract with ADNOC, ensuring compliance with contract conditions, ADNOC guidelines, and EPC project execution strategy.
• Review, analyze, and interpret contract clauses, terms, obligations, and liabilities for risk assessment.
• Ensure implementation of ADNOC Codes of Practice (COPs), General Design Guidelines (GDLs), and Specifications within the contractual framework.
• Maintain accurate and updated records of all contractual correspondence, variations, claims, and disputes.

Claims & Variations Management

• Prepare, evaluate, and defend contractual claims, variations, change orders, and extensions of time (EOT) in line with FIDIC and ADNOC procedures.
• Identify potential contractual risks early and provide mitigation strategies.
• Lead negotiations with Client (ADNOC/PMC), subcontractors, and suppliers for settlement of claims and commercial issues.

Subcontract & Procurement Management

• Draft, review, and finalize subcontract agreements in line with ADNOC and FIDIC requirements.
• Monitor subcontractor performance, ensuring compliance with scope, schedule, and cost.
• Evaluate and certify subcontractor interim and final payment applications.
• Support procurement team in reviewing vendor terms & conditions, ensuring alignment with main contract obligations.

Cost & Commercial Management

• Support project controls in preparing cash flow forecasts, cost reports, and budget control in line with EPC execution plan.
• Identify potential cost overruns and contractual risks impacting project profitability.
• Ensure all commercial deliverables (invoices, payment certificates, insurances, guarantees, bonds) comply with ADNOC requirements.

Dispute Resolution & Risk Management

• Provide expert advice on contractual disputes, arbitration, and adjudication matters.
• Maintain a proactive risk register in collaboration with project controls and legal teams.
• Represent the company in dispute boards, ADNOC commercial review committees, and arbitration hearings, if required.

Project Coordination & Client Interface

• Act as the focal point for all contractual communications with Client (ADNOC), PMC, and subcontractors.
• Participate in progress review meetings, cost control reviews, and commercial negotiations.
• Ensure seamless coordination with engineering, procurement, construction, HSE, and QA/QC teams for contract-related issues.

Key Deliverables

• Contract Review Reports (Prime & Subcontract)
• Claims & Variation Submissions (Change Orders, EOT, Disruption Claims)
• Risk Register & Commercial Reports
• Subcontract Agreements & Evaluations
• Payment Certificates & Cost Control Reports
• Dispute & Settlement Documentation

Qualification

• Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering, Quantity Surveying, Construction Management, or Law from a recognized university.
• Master’s Degree or Diploma in Contracts Management / Commercial Management preferred.
• Certification in FIDIC Contract Administration or RICS/CIArb membership will be an added advantage.

Experience

• Minimum 15+ years of progressive experience in Contract and Commercial Management within EPC projects (Oil & Gas, Infrastructure, or Industrial Plants).
• Proven track record in managing ADNOC projects or similar large-scale Middle East EPC contracts.
• Strong expertise in FIDIC-based contracts, claims preparation, dispute resolution, and subcontract management.
• Demonstrated experience in client negotiations, commercial risk assessment, and project cost control.
• Excellent communication, analytical, and leadership skills.