Lead Counsel / Legal Director

The Orchard Place; United Arab Emirates; On-site; AED 80,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is looking for a Lead Counsel/Legal Director to drive strategic legal initiatives within the construction and engineering sectors. This pivotal role requires a commercially astute legal professional with extensive experience in construction law and contract management. You will advise on complex legal matters, lead contract negotiations, and ensure compliance with laws and internal policies. Join a dynamic team where your expertise will shape legal frameworks and support large-scale projects. If you are ready to take your career to the next level in a collaborative environment that values diversity, this opportunity is for you.

Qualifications

• 8-10 years of post-qualification experience in construction law.
• Deep knowledge of FIDIC and EPC contract frameworks.

Responsibilities

• Advise on all legal aspects of construction projects.
• Draft and negotiate construction contracts and procurement documents.
• Lead legal risk analysis and dispute resolution strategies.

Skills

Construction Law

Contract Negotiation

Legal Risk Analysis

Dispute Resolution

FIDIC Contract Frameworks

EPC Contracts

Analytical Skills

Communication Skills

Education

Law Degree (LLB or equivalent)

Job description

We are seeking a Lead Counsel/Legal Director specialising in the construction and engineering sectors. This is a pivotal leadership role for a commercially astute, solution-oriented legal professional who is ready to drive strategic legal initiatives, manage risk, and guide the business through complex contractual landscapes.

Key Responsibilities:

• Advise on all legal aspects of construction projects from planning to execution, including FIDIC-based contracts and EPC frameworks
• Draft, review, and negotiate construction contracts, subcontracts, consultancy agreements, and procurement documents
• Provide day-to-day legal support to project managers, engineers, and procurement teams across multiple active and upcoming projects
• Lead contract administration and contract management, including supervision of procurement processes, managing nomination letters, and ensuring alignment with contractual obligations
• Collaborate closely with the procurement team to facilitate contract negotiations, review bid conditions, and secure the most favourable terms for the business
• Lead legal risk analysis, claims prevention, and dispute resolution strategies
• Monitor compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and internal policies across project activities
• Participate in project governance meetings and proactively flag legal risks to management
• Support management in shaping legal policies and frameworks in the construction division
• Train project teams on contract terms, claim management, and regulatory issues

Requirements:

• Law degree from a recognized university (LLB or equivalent)
• Minimum 8-10 years of post-qualification experience, with a strong focus on construction law and infrastructure projects
• Proven experience supporting large-scale construction and engineering teams, preferably within a developer, contractor, or engineering consultancy
• Deep knowledge of construction contract frameworks (FIDIC, EPC, Design & Build etc)
• Strong negotiation skills, analytical mindset, and hands-on approach to contract management
• Excellent written and verbal communication in English; Arabic language is a plus
• Ability to work independently, prioritize tasks, and interface confidently with technical and commercial teams.

We are an equal-opportunity employer. We value diversity and are committed to fostering an inclusive and welcoming work environment.