Manager - Contracts Administration

About:

Alef Group is a pioneer in developing premier lifestyle communities, destinations, and experiences through investment and strategic joint ventures, seeking a highly skilled and experienced Manager - Contracts Administration specifically with specific Real Estate Developer experience to join our team in Sharjah.

Job Purpose:

The Manager – Contracts Administration will support the Director – Contracts in managing the Contracts Administration function by overseeing the preparation, administration, and monitoring of all project-related contracts. The role ensures that contractual obligations are fulfilled, risks are mitigated, and project delivery is aligned with the company’s commercial and strategic objectives.

Key Accountabilities:

• Prepare and administer contract documentation to ensure accuracy, compliance, and timely execution in line with company policies and legal requirements.
• Review and verify contract terms, variations, and amendments to safeguard the company’s commercial interests and minimize risks.
• Monitor and track contractual obligations, deliverables, and milestones to ensure performance compliance and early identification of potential issues.
• Support and advise project teams and management on contractual matters to enable informed decision-making and effective risk management.
• Coordinate and liaise with legal, procurement, finance, and project management functions to ensure contract administration is fully integrated within business operations.
• Maintain and update a contracts repository and reporting system to provide accurate, transparent, and up-to-date information.
• Assist and participate in negotiations with contractors, consultants, and suppliers to achieve favourable contractual outcomes.
• Assist in handling claims and disputes arising from contracts, aiming to resolve them amicably.
• Maintain records and documentation related to disputes.
• Assist in the procurement process, which may include issuing tenders, evaluating bids, and selecting contractors and suppliers.
• Maintain relationships with various vendors and contractors.
• Contribute to the development of policies, procedures, and best practices to continuously enhance contract administration efficiency.

Educational Qualifications, Work Experience, and Skills Required:

Educational Qualifications:

• Must have a Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering or equivalent.
• A MRICS (Member of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors) certification is preferred, along with a Commercial Management certification from Robert Gordon University or an equivalent qualification.

Work Experience:

• Must have a minimum of 8–12 years of progressive experience in contract administration, with at least 3–5 years in the UAE/GCC real estate development or construction sector.
• Solid experience in drafting, reviewing, and managing contracts based on FIDIC and other standard forms.
• Proven track record in handling variations, claims, and contractual correspondence, including variations, claims, and contractual correspondence.
• Strong understanding of UAE contract law and regulatory frameworks.
• In-depth experience in pre- and post-contract commercial management, project variations, cost control, and negotiations.

Skills required:

• Exceptional analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to assess risks and mitigate them.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with a proven track record of building and maintaining productive relationships with clients and colleagues.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced, dynamic environment, demonstrating adaptability and a proactive approach to challenges.
• Strong understanding of contract law, regulatory requirements, and industry standards related to Real Estate.