Contracts Manager

Contracts Manager

Location: Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Job Summary

The Contracts Manager is responsible for managing all contractual and commercial matters related to the project, ensuring that the company's contractual rights and obligations are protected throughout the project lifecycle. The role involves contract administration, claims management, subcontract management, risk assessment, dispute resolution, and liaison with clients, consultants, and subcontractors.

Key Responsibilities

Contract Management

• Administer and manage the main contract and all associated project agreements.
• Review contract conditions, identify risks, and advise project management on contractual implications.
• Ensure compliance with contract requirements, project specifications, and UAE regulations.
• Interpret contractual provisions and provide guidance to project teams.

Claims and Variations

• Prepare, evaluate, and negotiate Extension of Time (EOT) claims.
• Manage variation orders and contractual change management processes.
• Prepare and submit contractual notices in accordance with contract requirements.
• Evaluate and respond to claims from clients, consultants, and subcontractors.

Subcontract Administration

• Lead the preparation, negotiation, and administration of subcontract agreements.
• Review and approve subcontractor claims, variations, and final accounts.
• Ensure subcontract agreements adequately protect the company's interests.

Commercial and Risk Management

• Identify contractual and commercial risks and develop mitigation strategies.
• Maintain risk registers relating to contractual obligations.
• Support project commercial teams in maximizing project profitability.
• Monitor contractual compliance throughout project execution.

Dispute Resolution

• Assist in resolving contractual disputes and commercial issues.
• Coordinate with legal advisors when required.
• Prepare supporting documentation for arbitration, mediation, or adjudication proceedings.

Stakeholder Management

• Liaise with clients, consultants, subcontractors, and project stakeholders.
• Attend commercial and contractual meetings.
• Provide contractual advice to project management and commercial teams.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, Quantity Surveying, or related field.
• Master's Degree or professional qualification is an advantage.

Experience

• Minimum 12–15 years of construction industry experience.
• Minimum 5 years as Contracts Manager on major building projects.
• Mandatory UAE experience with a Main Contractor.
• Proven experience in high-rise residential, commercial, mixed-use, or hospitality projects.
• Strong knowledge of FIDIC Contracts and UAE construction practices.

Skills and Competencies

• Expert knowledge of FIDIC Contract Conditions.
• Contract negotiation and administration.
• Claims and dispute management.
• Commercial awareness and risk management.
• Strong report writing and presentation skills.
• Leadership and team management abilities.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.

Work Location: In person