General Manager – Fit-Out Industry

Job Title: General Manager – Fit-Out Industry
Location: United Arab Emirates
Industry: Interior Fit-Out / Contracting
Employment Type: Full-Time
Reports To: Managing Director / Board of Directors

Job Summary

The General Manager – Fit-Out is responsible for providing overall leadership, strategic direction, and operational control of the interior fit-out business. The role ensures profitable growth, successful delivery of projects from tender stage to final handover, and adherence to the highest standards of quality, safety, and client satisfaction. The General Manager will drive business expansion, strengthen client relationships, and build a high-performance organizational culture.

Key Responsibilities1. Strategic & Business Leadership

• Develop and execute long-term business strategies aligned with company vision and market trends
• Identify new business opportunities, target sectors, and revenue streams
• Lead business development initiatives and strategic partnerships
• Establish and maintain relationships with key clients, consultants, and stakeholders
• Prepare annual budgets, financial forecasts, and growth plans

2. Operations & Project Management

• Oversee end-to-end execution of multiple interior fit-out projects (commercial, residential, hospitality, retail, F&B, etc.)
• Ensure projects are delivered on time, within budget, and according to specifications and quality standards
• Monitor project KPIs, schedules, productivity, and cost control measures
• Coordinate closely with design, estimation, procurement, and site execution teams
• Drive continuous improvement in project delivery processes and methodologies

3. Financial Management

• Manage overall P&L, cash flow, and financial performance of the division
• Approve project budgets, variations, claims, and final accounts
• Optimize operational costs and overheads while maintaining quality standards
• Ensure effective financial reporting and compliance with company policies

4. Team Leadership & Human Resources

• Lead, mentor, and develop department heads, project managers, and senior staff
• Foster a performance-driven and accountable work culture
• Support recruitment, talent development, performance appraisals, and succession planning
• Encourage cross-department collaboration and knowledge sharing

5. Quality, Safety & Compliance

• Ensure compliance with UAE regulations, authority approvals, and contractual obligations
• Implement and monitor QA/QC and HSE standards across all projects
• Manage project risks, legal matters, and dispute resolution processes
• Maintain documentation, audits, and certification requirements

6. Client & Stakeholder Management

• Act as the primary point of contact for key clients, consultants, and partners
• Ensure high levels of customer satisfaction and repeat business opportunities
• Lead negotiations, handle escalations, and manage contract terms effectively
• Represent the company at industry events, meetings, and networking forums

Requirements & Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in Civil Engineering, Architecture, Interior Design, or related field
• MBA or Project Management Certification is an advantage
• 15+ years of experience in interior fit-out / contracting industry
• Minimum 5 years in a senior leadership role (General Manager / Operations Director / Project Director)
• Strong knowledge of UAE market regulations, authorities, and fit-out standards
• Proven experience managing large-scale fit-out projects and multi-project portfolios
• Excellent leadership, negotiation, communication, and decision-making skills
• Valid UAE Driving License preferred

Job Type: Full-time