Construction Contracts Manager - Major Developments

Placements24; East London; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Medical aid and retirement fund

Job summary

Placements24 in East London seeks an experienced Construction Contracts Manager to oversee all contract activities for major development projects in the Eastern Cape. You will draft, review, negotiate contracts, manage claims, and ensure compliance across the project portfolio.

The ideal candidate will possess a strong legal and commercial acumen, with deep knowledge of construction processes and project management, and a track record with large-scale projects.

Qualifications

• Must have 7+ years of experience in construction contracts management, with large projects.
• Strong knowledge of contract forms (FIDIC, JBC, NEC) and SA construction law.
• Excellent analytical, strategic thinking, and negotiation skills.

Responsibilities

• Draft, review, and negotiate construction contracts, subcontracts, and related agreements.
• Manage tender process and ensure all contractual documentation is accurate and compliant.
• Oversee contract administration through lifecycle, including variations, claims, and extensions of time.
• Manage and resolve contractual disputes and claims in a timely and effective manner.
• Ensure compliance with contract terms, conditions, and relevant legislation.
• Provide expert contractual advice to project teams and senior leadership.
• Monitor project performance against contractual obligations and identify risks.
• Conduct contract audits and maintain proper record-keeping.

Skills

Contract management experience

Negotiation skills

Dispute resolution

Commercial acumen

Education

Bachelor's degree in Law, Construction Management, Engineering, or related field

Professional qualification in contract law/management

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading construction firm involved in major development projects, is seeking an experienced Construction Contracts Manager for their operations in East London. This crucial role will involve managing all aspects of construction contracts, ensuring legal compliance, mitigating risks, and maximizing project profitability. You will be responsible for drafting, reviewing, and negotiating contracts, managing claims, resolving disputes, and overseeing the contractual performance of all parties involved. The ideal candidate will possess a strong legal and commercial acumen, combined with a deep understanding of construction processes and project management. This is a significant opportunity to contribute to large-scale projects in the Eastern Cape region and play a key role in the success of our client's ventures. You will be the primary advisor on all contractual matters, safeguarding the company's interests.

Key Responsibilities

• Draft, review, and negotiate construction contracts, subcontracts, and related agreements.
• Manage the tender process, ensuring all contractual documentation is accurate and compliant.
• Oversee contract administration throughout the project lifecycle, including variations, claims, and extensions of time.
• Manage and resolve contractual disputes and claims in a timely and effective manner.
• Ensure compliance with all contract terms, conditions, and relevant legislation.
• Provide expert advice on contractual matters to project management teams and senior leadership.
• Monitor project performance against contractual obligations and identify potential risks.
• Conduct contract audits and ensure proper record-keeping practices.
• Liaise with legal counsel, clients, and subcontractors on contractual issues.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Law, Construction Management, Engineering, or a related field.
• Professional qualification or extensive experience in contract law and management.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in construction contracts management, with a focus on large projects.
• In-depth knowledge of FIDIC, JBC, and NEC contract forms, as well as South African construction law.
• Proven experience in claims management, dispute resolution, and negotiation.
• Strong commercial and financial acumen.
• Excellent analytical, strategic thinking, and problem-solving skills.
• Exceptional communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a high‑performing team in East London.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package, comprehensive medical aid, and retirement fund benefits. This East London-based role provides excellent opportunities for professional development and career advancement within a leading construction organization. Join a team that values expertise and integrity, contributing to significant projects within the Eastern Cape. We are committed to fostering a professional and rewarding work environment.