Project Manager & Business Development Lead

Job Summary:

We are seeking a highly motivated and results-driven Project Manager with a strong background in business development to spearhead our contracting business. This dual-role position is critical for a startup, requiring an individual with extensive experience in successfully delivering diverse projects – particularly in interior fit-out, finishing works, and building maintenance – while simultaneously identifying, securing, and nurturing new business opportunities in the dynamic UAE market. The ideal candidate will possess a profound understanding of local regulations, a proven track record of project execution, and an entrepreneurial spirit to drive growth.

Key Responsibilities:

A. Project Management (Approx. 60% of Role Focus):

1. Project Planning & Strategy:

• Develop comprehensive project plans, including scope, objectives, detailed schedules, budgets, resource allocation, and robust risk management strategies.
• Define clear project deliverables, milestones, and required resources for each stage, focusing on efficiency for a startup.
• Review and interpret architectural drawings, specifications, and Bills of Quantities (BOQs) to ensure accurate project planning and execution.
• Advise on optimal construction methods, materials, and cost-effective solutions for fit-out and finishing works, leveraging market knowledge.

2. Project Execution & Management:

• Lead and manage the entire project lifecycle from initiation to close-out.
• Oversee all aspects of fit-out, interior works, finishing, MEP, and associated building and maintenance activities.
• Coordinate and manage project teams (including engineers, site supervisors, subcontractors, and laborers), ensuring clear communication, efficient workflow, and adherence to company standards.
• Monitor project progress diligently, identify potential issues or deviations, and implement proactive solutions to mitigate risks and prevent delays.
• Ensure strict adherence to project timelines, budget constraints, and the highest quality standards.
• Manage procurement processes for materials and services, ensuring cost-effectiveness, timely delivery, and quality assurance from suppliers.

3. Quality Control & Compliance:

• Prepare compelling and competitive proposals, tenders, and presentations that clearly articulate the company's value proposition.
• Lead negotiations with clients, ensuring favorable contractual terms and conditions that balance risk and profitability.
• Collaborate with the estimating team to develop accurate and competitive bids.

4. Financial & Contractual Management:

• Manage project budgets, diligently track expenses, and implement rigorous cost control measures.
• Prepare and submit accurate progress reports, payment applications, variation orders, and final accounts.
• Monitor project cash flow and ensure the efficient utilization of financial resources.
• Negotiate effectively with suppliers and subcontractors to secure favorable terms and pricing.

5. Post-Completion & Maintenance:

• Oversee comprehensive project handover, including the compilation of all necessary documentation, management of snagging lists, and adherence to defect liability period terms.
• Manage building maintenance contracts and execute maintenance plans as required.

B. Business Development (Approx. 40% of Role Focus):

1. Market Research & Strategy:

• Conduct thorough market research to identify new business opportunities, emerging trends, and potential clients within the UAE's fit-out, interior works, finishing, and maintenance sectors.
• Develop and implement strategic business development plans aligned with the company's growth objectives.

2. Client Acquisition & Relationship Building:

• Proactively identify and approach potential clients (e.g., developers, property owners, consultants, architects, facility managers) to generate leads and secure new projects.
• Build and maintain strong, long-lasting relationships with key stakeholders, clients, and industry partners.
• Represent the company at industry events, conferences, and networking functions to enhance brand visibility and generate leads.

3. Proposal Development & Negotiation:

• Prepare compelling and competitive proposals, tenders, and presentations that clearly articulate the company's value proposition.
• Lead negotiations with clients, ensuring favorable contractual terms and conditions that balance risk and profitability.
• Collaborate with the estimating team to develop accurate and competitive bids.

4. Sales Targets & Reporting:

• Set and achieve ambitious sales targets for new project acquisition.
• Provide regular, detailed reports on business development activities, pipeline status, and market intelligence to the CEO/management.

Qualifications & Experience:

• Education: Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Architecture, Construction Management, or a related field. A Master's degree or PMP certification is a significant advantage.
• Experience:
• Minimum of 8-10 years of progressive experience in Project Management within the construction, fit-out, interior works, finishing, and maintenance sector.
• Mandatory: Demonstrable hands-on experience in managing complex interior fit-out, finishing works, and building renovation/maintenance projects in the UAE.
• Crucial: Proven track record of successfully bringing in new business, identifying leads, developing proposals, and securing contracts within the UAE contracting market. This is essential for a startup environment.
• Previous experience working for a contracting firm in a similar dual project management/business development capacity is highly desirable.
• Knowledge:
• In-depth knowledge of the UAE construction market, local regulations, building codes, and authority approval processes (DM, DCD, DEWA, etc.).
• Strong understanding of various trades involved in fit-out, including civil, architectural, MEP, carpentry, tiling, painting, false ceiling, and glass & aluminum works.
• Familiarity with project management methodologies and tools.
• Excellent understanding of contractual terms, tendering processes, and commercial aspects of contracting.

Skills & Competencies:

• Exceptional leadership, team management, and mentoring skills.
• Strong entrepreneurial drive and a proactive approach to business generation.
• Outstanding negotiation, presentation, and client-facing communication skills.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities, with a keen eye for detail.
• Proficiency in project management software (e.g., MS Project, Primavera P6) and MS Office Suite.
• Ability to read and interpret complex drawings, specifications, and contracts.
• High level of commercial acumen and financial management skills.
• Results-oriented, adaptable, and able to thrive under pressure in a fast-paced startup environment.
• Valid UAE Driving License is essential.

Job Type: Full-time