Contracts Manager

Job description / Role

Our Multi National Design & Supervision Consultancy client has a new requirement for a well experienced Contracts Manager to join their team in Dubai, UAE. Successful candidates will have a proven background as a Contracts Manager on new build villa's, mansions and residential apartment projects in the UAE and ideally have worked for a recognised design or engineering consultancy company previously,

This role is available for immediate joining and is for an initial 12 month fixed term contract as an outsourced employee through J10 Consulting.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the review, and assist with negotiation of contracts, including subcontracts, supply agreements.
• Ensure that all contracts are executed in compliance with regulatory requirements, company policies, and project objectives.
• Ensure that all parties involved in the contract process have a clear understanding of their roles, responsibilities, and obligations under the agreement.
• Continuously monitor the performance of all contractual agreements, ensuring that contractors and suppliers adhere to the scope of work, timelines, and quality standards as outlined in the contract.
• Review the progress of contractual obligations on-site, identifying any discrepancies or delays, and proactively addressing any potential issues before they affect project delivery.
• Oversee the preparation and management of variation orders and change management procedures in line with the contract.
• Manage the identification, analysis, and resolution of any claims, disputes, or contractual issues that arise during the construction process.
• Prepare and review along with the Planning Manager, claims documentation related to delays, cost overruns, or other issues, providing accurate assessments and recommendations for resolution.
• Coordinate with project teams and external consultants when necessary to resolve disputes effectively and ensure project timelines are not impacted.
• Identify contractual risks early in the project, including cost escalation, scheduling conflicts, and legal challenges, and take necessary steps to mitigate or resolve these risks.
• Conduct risk assessments of contract terms and conditions to ensure all potential risks are accounted for and managed appropriately.
• Develop and implement strategies for managing project risks, including cost control measures and contingency planning.
• Provide day-to-day management of contract administration activities on-site, ensuring that contracts are properly adhered to during the construction phase.
• Coordinate with the site management team, contractors, and suppliers to ensure smooth execution of the contract and efficient site operations.
• Ensure that all parties involved on-site are aware of the contractual obligations and deadlines, promoting collaboration and minimizing misunderstandings. Work closely with the Resident Engineer to ensure that project timelines and budgets are strictly followed, identifying any risks to the schedule or budget and ensuring they are promptly addressed.
• Monitor progress against contractual milestones and deliverables, ensuring that all parties are performing in line with agreed timelines and cost structures.
• Review progress payment applications and ensure that they are in line with the contract terms, confirming that work is completed to the required standards before payment approval.
• Maintain accurate and organized records of all contracts, change orders, variations, correspondence, and claims related to the project.
• Ensure that all contractual documentation is up-to-date and filed in a manner that allows for easy access and retrieval.
• Prepare and submit detailed weekly and monthly reports on contract status, variations, claims, and issues, providing senior management with comprehensive updates.
• Ensure clear and consistent communication between all stakeholders, including contractors, consultants, suppliers, and clients, regarding contractual matters.
• Draft and issue official correspondence relating to contract disputes, claims, and variations, ensuring that the interests of the firm are protected.
• Review and respond to any queries or concerns raised by clients, contractors, or other stakeholders regarding contract terms or performance
• Act as a key point of contact for clients regarding all contractual matters, ensuring that the client and consultant’s interests are safeguarded throughout the project lifecycle.
• Work closely with the project management team to ensure alignment between contractual obligations and overall project goals.

Contracts Manager Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Quantity Surveying, Civil Engineering, Law, Construction Management, or a related field.
• Minimum of 15 years of experience in contracts management, commercial management, or construction law, with a strong focus on large-scale projects in the UAE/GCC region.
• Proven track record of managing contracts on high-profile construction projects, including hospitality, luxury residential, mixed-use, commercial, and infrastructure developments.
• Extensive experience in site supervision, managing contractors and suppliers, and ensuring compliance with contractual obligations throughout the construction phase.
• In-depth knowledge of contract law, construction contracts (FIDIC, JCT, or similar), and project management principles.
• Strong understanding of construction processes, site operations, and best practices in contract administration.
• Proficiency in contract management software and Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to assess risks and manage complex contractual disputes.
• Professional qualifications such as MRICS, PMP, or equivalent certifications in contract management or construction law are highly desirable.
• Exceptional communication skills with the ability to engage effectively with clients, contractors, and stakeholders at all levels.
• Strong negotiation skills and the ability to resolve disputes and contractual issues diplomatically and efficiently.
• Excellent problem-solving abilities, with a proactive approach to identifying and addressing potential issues before they escalate.
• Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines effectively.

About the Company

J10 Consulting are Construction Recruitment experts in the Middle East.

We help businesses and careers grow by delivering Temporary Contract & Permanent Contingency hiring solutions within Construction & Engineering in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman, Bahrain & Kuwait

J10 Consulting provide collaborative engagement and a deep understanding of both client and candidate requirements to cover temporary and permanent requirements across a number of vertical markets within Construction & Engineering.