Contract Department Manager

Responsibilities:

• Lead the contract management process from initial negotiations to final closeout.
• Prepare, review, and manage contracts, agreements, and amendments related to construction supervision projects.
• Ensure compliance with all contractual obligations and legal requirements.
• Identify, assess, and mitigate contractual risks.
• Implement strategies to minimize risks and manage potential disputes effectively.
• Collaborate with legal teams to resolve disputes and ensure project continuity.
• Monitor project budgets and costs in relation to contracts.
• Ensure that financial targets and timelines are met in line with contract agreements.
• Maintain strong relationships with clients, contractors, and stakeholders.
• Act as the main point of contact for all contractual matters with clients and project teams.
• Conduct regular meetings to review contract performance and address any issues or disputes.
• Lead negotiations with contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers.
• Develop procurement strategies and evaluate bids in alignment with project requirements.
• Ensure the selection of cost-effective and reliable contractors and suppliers.
• Ensure proper documentation of contracts, change orders, variations, and extensions.
• Maintain accurate records and ensure compliance with all local, regional, and international regulations.
• Supervise and mentor junior contract administrators and other staff involved in contract management.
• Provide training in contract management processes and best practices to ensure team efficiency.
• Oversee the change management process, including reviewing and approving change orders, variations, and claims.
• Analyze the impact of changes on the project’s scope, cost, and timeline and ensure they are reflected in contract adjustments.
• Negotiate and settle claims arising from contractual disputes or scope changes.
• Continuously monitor the contractor’s performance in relation to the contract terms and project milestones.
• Implement performance tracking mechanisms and enforce compliance with project deliverables.
• Ensure all contractors and subcontractors meet contractual obligations and performance targets.
• Prepare and respond to contractual letters, notices, and correspondence in a timely and professional manner.
• Draft claims, extensions of time (EOT), and delay notifications as necessary to maintain project alignment.
• Maintain comprehensive records of all contract-related correspondence for audit and legal purposes.
• Work closely with legal teams to interpret and clarify contract terms and conditions, ensuring adherence to regulatory and contractual frameworks.
• Provide support in legal proceedings or arbitration related to disputes and claims within the project.
• Conduct periodic reviews and audits of contracts to ensure compliance with legal requirements, company policies, and risk mitigation measures.
• Provide regular reports to senior management on contract performance, risk status, and financial health of the project.
• Prepare detailed contract reports for senior management and stakeholders, outlining progress, risks, and issues related to contract administration.
• Ensure that all contract documents and records are accurately maintained, updated, and accessible for review during audits or inspections.
• Coordinate with various stakeholders, including project managers, engineers, procurement teams, and financial departments, to ensure alignment of contract terms with project execution.
• Facilitate communication between internal teams and external parties to resolve contractual issues.
• Identify areas of improvement in contract management processes and implement best practices to streamline operations.
• Stay updated on the latest trends, regulations, and best practices in contract law and construction supervision to ensure the company remains competitive and compliant.
• Ensure all contractors and project participants comply with environmental, health, and safety regulations as stipulated in contracts.
• Monitor safety protocols and address non-compliance with contractual obligations related to EHS standards.
• Ensure all payments, including progress payments, retention, and final settlements, are in accordance with the contract terms.
• Work with the finance team to track expenditures against the contract and flag any cost overruns early.
• Manage dispute resolution processes, including negotiations, mediation, arbitration, or litigation as required.
• Assess claims made by contractors or the client and resolve disputes efficiently to minimize project delays and costs.
• Ensure a smooth project closeout, including final inspections, certificate issuance, and release of retention monies.
• Prepare and manage the final contract documentation for handovers to clients, including warranties, guarantees, and O&M manuals.

Essential Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in civil engineering, construction management, or a related field from a recognized Western University; a Master's degree is preferred.
• A minimum of 15 years of experience in contract management, with extensive involvement in PMC projects—particularly in the capacity of the Client’s representative.
• Proven experience in the Gulf region and broader Middle East is essential.
• Fluency in Arabic is mandatory.
• Experience in applying the Saudi Government Tenders and Procurement Law in project execution and contract management.
• In-depth knowledge of contract law, construction regulations, and project management principles.
• Demonstrated success in managing contracts for large-scale construction projects.
• Excellent negotiation, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to perform effectively under pressure and meet strict deadlines.
• Strong organizational capabilities with keen attention to detail.
• Proficiency in project management software such as MS Project, Primavera, or similar tools.
• Professional certifications (e.g., Certified Construction Contract Administrator - CCCM or equivalent) are considered an asset.