Contracts Manager – Roads & Earthworks

Fempower Personnel; South Africa; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 850,000; Full time

Job summary

Fempower Personnel is seeking an experienced Contracts Manager to lead infrastructure projects in Zambia. This senior role involves managing contracts and ensuring operational delivery while adhering to the highest quality standards.

The ideal candidate will have a Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering or related fields and at least 8–10 years of experience in contract management within civil engineering. This position requires a willingness to be site-based and travel.

Qualifications

• 8–10 years of experience in contracts or project management.
• Experience in civil engineering, roads, or earthworks.
• Track record of managing large-scale projects.
• Knowledge of FIDIC contract law.

Responsibilities

• Manage multiple contracts in roads and earthworks.
• Ensure compliance with safety and quality standards.
• Lead and mentor project teams.
• Monitor project budgets and financials.
• Identify and manage risks throughout project life.

Skills

Contract management

Risk management

Financial management

Team leadership

Communication

Education

Bachelor’s Degree or Diploma in Civil Engineering, Construction Management

Registration with ECSA

Tools

MS Office

Project management software

Construction Computer Software

Job description

Overview

Our client, a leading international construction and civil engineering contractor, is seeking an experienced Contracts Manager to lead a portfolio of roads and earthworks projects in Zambia. This senior leadership role is responsible for the successful commercial and operational delivery of multiple large-scale infrastructure projects.

Reporting to senior management, you will oversee contracts from tender handover through to project close-out, managing contractual risk, driving operational performance, and leading multidisciplinary teams to ensure projects are delivered safely, on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards. This role offers a unique opportunity to build a legacy, shape project delivery, and step into a senior leadership trajectory within the organisation.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree or Diploma in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, or a related field.
• 8–10 years of post-qualification experience in contracts or project management within the civil engineering, roads, or earthworks sectors.
• Registration with ECSA (Engineering Council of South Africa) is highly advantageous.
• Proven track record of managing multiple large-scale infrastructure or road construction projects simultaneously.
• In-depth knowledge of contract law and administration (FIDIC experience is a strong advantage).
• Experience managing subcontractors, suppliers, and multidisciplinary teams.
• Strong financial and commercial management skills, including budgeting and cost control.
• Proficiency in MS Office and project management software; working knowledge of CCS (Construction Computer Software) is required.
• Willingness to be site-based in Zambia and travel between project sites as needed.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage and oversee multiple roads and earthworks contracts concurrently, with a focus on commercial and operational delivery.
• Ensure all projects are delivered in line with safety, environmental, and quality standards.
• Lead, mentor, and develop project managers, site teams, and subcontractors to achieve performance targets.
• Administer contracts rigorously, managing variations, claims, and final accounts in accordance with FIDIC and other applicable standards.
• Monitor project financials, including budgeting, forecasting, cost control, and margin protection.
• Proactively identify and mitigate commercial, operational, and contractual risks.
• Oversee procurement strategies and subcontractor negotiations.
• Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with clients, consultants, and key stakeholders.
• Provide regular, detailed performance, financial, and risk reports to senior management.
• Support tendering and business development activities as required, contributing to the company’s growth in the region.