Senior Contracts Manager

Placements24; East London; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive-level compensation

Performance-based bonus

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Career progression

Job summary

Placements24 in East London, South Africa, seeks a highly experienced Senior Contracts Manager to lead procurement and contract administration for major construction projects. You will ensure contracts are commercially sound, legally compliant, and effectively managed to protect the company's interests and ensure project success.

This strategic role requires overseeing tender processes, negotiating terms, managing disputes, and providing expert advice on contracts.

Qualifications

• Law or construction-related degree and 10+ years in contract management.
• Deep knowledge of standard forms (FIDIC, NEC) and other forms.
• Experience with tender management, negotiation, and disputes.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement contract management strategies for all construction projects.
• Lead tender process, including pre-qualification of contractors, preparation of tender documents, and bid evaluation.
• Negotiate contract terms and conditions with clients, subcontractors, and suppliers to ensure favorable outcomes.
• Administer construction contracts, including managing variations, claims, and payment processes.
• Monitor contract performance and ensure compliance with legal requirements, project specifications, and company policies.
• Manage and resolve contractual disputes and claims efficiently and professionally.

Skills

Contract law

Tender management

Negotiation

Dispute resolution

Leadership

Stakeholder mgmt

Analytical skills

Attention to detail

Commercial acumen

Education

Law degree

Construction management / Quantity Surveying degree

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a highly experienced and strategic Senior Contracts Manager to lead the procurement and contract administration functions for major construction projects in the East London area and beyond. This senior role is responsible for ensuring that all contracts are commercially sound, legally compliant, and effectively managed to protect the company's interests and ensure project success. You will oversee tender processes, negotiate terms, manage disputes, and provide expert advice on contractual matters, playing a critical role in the financial and operational success of our construction ventures. This is a key leadership position for a seasoned professional in contract law and construction commercial management.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement effective contract management strategies for all construction projects.
• Lead the tender process, including pre-qualification of contractors, preparation of tender documents, and bid evaluation.
• Negotiate contract terms and conditions with clients, subcontractors, and suppliers to ensure favorable outcomes.
• Administer all construction contracts, including managing variations, claims, and payment processes.
• Monitor contract performance and ensure compliance with legal requirements, project specifications, and company policies.
• Manage and resolve contractual disputes and claims efficiently and professionally.

Requirements

• Law degree or a Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Quantity Surveying, or a related field.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in contract management, specifically within the construction industry.
• In-depth knowledge of contract law, FIDIC, NEC, or other standard forms of construction contracts.
• Proven experience in tender management, negotiation, and dispute resolution.
• Strong commercial acumen, analytical skills, and attention to detail.
• Excellent leadership and communication skills, with experience managing teams and interacting with senior stakeholders in East London and nationally.

Benefits

• Executive-level salary and comprehensive performance-based bonuses.
• Generous benefits package including top-tier medical aid and retirement funds.
• Significant opportunities for career advancement and executive leadership.
• A challenging role managing high-value contracts for landmark projects.
• Supportive work environment with a focus on professional excellence and strategic growth.