Senior Contracts Manager

Blake Anderson; Dubai; On-site; AED 120,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

A renowned consultancy firm seeks a Senior Contracts Manager for a prestigious 5-star hotel project in Dubai. The role involves overseeing all contractual and commercial activities during the construction phase. Ideal candidates have over 18 years of experience, including significant time in the UAE, and a background in contract management for large-scale projects. This position offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to a landmark development in the hospitality sector.

Qualifications

• 18+ years of experience including at least 8 years in the UAE.
• Proven experience in large-scale construction projects, preferably in hospitality.
• Membership in a professional body such as MRICS preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead all contractual and commercial activities during construction supervision.
• Administer the main construction contract ensuring compliance.
• Review contractor claims and ensure their timely resolution.

Skills

Contract administration

Negotiation skills

Analytical skills

Problem-solving skills

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Quantity Surveying, Construction Management, Engineering, or Law

Tools

FIDIC conditions of contract (Red Book)

Job description

My client an Architectural & Engineering consultancy requires a Senior Contracts Manager who will be responsible for overseeing all contractual and commercial aspects during the construction supervision phase of a landmark 5-star hotel project in Dubai. Working closely with the Project Director and multidisciplinary site teams, the role will ensure robust contract administration, claims management, and cost control to safeguard the client's and consultancy's interests throughout project delivery.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage all contractual, commercial, and procurement activities during the construction supervision phase.
• Administer the main construction contract (FIDIC or similar), ensuring strict compliance with contractual terms and project objectives.
• Provide contractual advice to the Project Director and senior management on claims, variations, and contractual correspondence.
• Review and assess contractor claims, change orders, and payment applications, ensuring fair and timely resolution.
• Prepare and maintain comprehensive records, reports, and contractual documentation.
• Lead negotiations on claims, variations, and commercial disputes with contractors and subcontractors.
• Manage risk assessment and mitigation strategies, ensuring all potential contractual exposures are identified early.
• Support in preparing monthly progress and financial reports, including cost forecasting and cash flow projections.
• Liaise with the client's commercial and legal teams, ensuring transparency and alignment on all commercial matters.
• Mentor and guide junior contracts staff, ensuring compliance with company standards and best practices.

Application: This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced Senior Contracts Manager to join a leading consultancy on one of Dubai's most prestigious luxury hotel projects. If you have a solid background in contract management and a passion for delivering excellence, we invite you to apply.

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Quantity Surveying, Construction Management, Engineering, or Law.
• Minimum 18+ years of experience, including at least 8 years in the UAE within major hospitality or mixed-use developments.
• Proven experience in contract administration and commercial management for large-scale construction supervision projects, preferably 5-star hotels or high-end developments.
• Strong working knowledge of FIDIC conditions of contract (especially Red Book).
• Experience within reputable international consultancies or project management firms.
• Excellent negotiation, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Membership in a professional body such as MRICS or equivalent preferred.
• Strong command of English with exceptional report writing and communication abilities.

Key Attributes

• Commercially astute with strong ethical and professional standards.
• Proactive, detail-oriented, and able to manage complex contract issues under pressure.
• Skilled communicator capable of interfacing confidently with clients, contractors, and senior stakeholders.
• Strategic thinker with a collaborative leadership style.