Contracts Manager

Placements24; Mbombela (Nelspruit); Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance bonuses

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Contracts Manager to oversee contractual aspects of major projects in the Nelspruit region. This hybrid position combines on-site contract administration with office planning, negotiation, and remote reporting to protect the company’s commercial interests.

You will manage claims, variations and disputes, review contract documents, and liaise with legal counsel on complex matters, ensuring compliance with SA legislation and policy.

Qualifications

• Degree in Law, Construction Management, Quantity Surveying, Engineering, or a related field.
• Strong negotiation, communication, and analytical skills.
• Extensive understanding of standard forms (JBCC, FIDIC, NEC) and claims management.

Responsibilities

• Manage the full lifecycle of construction contracts from tender to final account.
• Review and interpret contract documents and advise on rights and obligations.
• Administer contract changes including variations, claims and extensions of time.
• Assess and negotiate contractor claims and disputes.
• Ensure timely and accurate progress payments and valuations.

Skills

Negotiation

Communication

Analytical

Contract management

Education

Law / Construction-related degree

Tools

Contract management software

MS Office

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading player in the infrastructure development sector, is seeking an experienced Contracts Manager to oversee contractual aspects of major projects in the Nelspruit region. This hybrid role requires a strategic approach, combining robust on-site contract administration with office-based planning, negotiation, and remote reporting. You will be responsible for ensuring that all contractual obligations are met, managing claims, variations, and disputes effectively, and protecting the company's commercial interests. This is a critical role for someone with a deep understanding of construction law and contract management in South Africa.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage the entire lifecycle of construction contracts, from tender stage to final account.
• Review and interpret contract documents, advising on contractual rights and obligations.
• Administer contract changes, including variations, claims, and extensions of time.
• Assess and negotiate contractor claims and disputes.
• Ensure timely and accurate progress payments and valuations.
• Monitor contractor performance against contractual requirements.
• Develop and implement strategies for risk mitigation and dispute resolution.
• Liaise with legal counsel on complex contractual matters.
• Prepare reports on contract status, financial performance, and potential risks.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant legislation and company policies.

Requirements

• Degree in Law, Construction Management, Quantity Surveying, Engineering, or a related field.
• A minimum of 8 years of experience in contract management within the construction or infrastructure industry.
• In-depth knowledge of standard forms of construction contracts (e.g., JBCC, FIDIC, NEC).
• Strong understanding of construction law, claims management, and dispute resolution processes.
• Excellent negotiation, communication, and analytical skills.
• Ability to manage a hybrid work schedule, effectively balancing site visits with office-based and remote duties.
• Proficiency in contract management software and MS Office Suite.
• Proven ability to manage multiple contracts and deadlines simultaneously.
• Experience in the Nelspruit or Mpumalanga region is beneficial.
• Strong ethical standards and professional integrity.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary, commensurate with your experience and expertise, along with performance-related bonuses. Comprehensive medical aid and a substantial retirement fund contribution are provided. This hybrid role offers flexibility, allowing for a dynamic work-life balance. You will have the opportunity to work on significant and impactful projects that shape the infrastructure of the Nelspruit area. Our client is committed to professional development, offering ongoing training and opportunities for career advancement. Be part of a respected organization known for its commitment to excellence and ethical practices. We foster a collaborative and supportive work environment.