Job Description:

Senior Contract Manager

Abu Dhabi, UAE

We are seeking an exceptional Senior Contract Manager to join our project leadership team on a prestigious multi-package development comprising major infrastructure works and mixed-use buildings for a leading developer in Abu Dhabi.

As a senior member of the Project Management Consultancy and Construction Management (PMCM) team, you will lead all commercial and contractual aspects of the project, safeguarding the interests of both the client and the organization while driving value, compliance, and operational excellence across the portfolio.

Reporting to the Programme Commercial Director, the Senior Contract Manager will oversee the commercial and contractual performance of supervision consultants and contractors, ensuring the project is delivered within budget and in full compliance with contractual obligations.

What You'll Be Doing:

• Lead the implementation of the project’s commercial strategy, policies, and procedures to optimize profitability while proactively identifying and mitigating risks.

• Establish and maintain robust commercial reporting systems, ensuring accurate and timely reporting to stakeholders.

• Prepare and present high-level commercial and financial reports to senior client representatives and key stakeholders.

• Advise PMCM leadership and the client’s executive team on all commercial, contractual, and financial matters.

• Administer all project contracts, including Client–PMC, Client–Contractor, and Client–Supervision Consultant agreements.

• Interpret and manage contract conditions, ensuring all parties comply with contractual obligations, including notices and formal correspondence.

• Oversee payment and certification processes, ensuring contractor and consultant applications are properly evaluated and processed in a timely manner.

• Lead the review, valuation, and negotiation of variations, change orders, and instructions on behalf of the client.

• Implement and manage a claims strategy focused on prevention, early intervention, and efficient resolution.

• Assess and evaluate contractor and consultant claims related to Extension of Time (EOT) and additional costs, providing detailed recommendations to the client.

• Lead major commercial negotiations with contractors and consultants to achieve effective and commercially sound outcomes.

• Lead, mentor, and manage the commercial team by setting clear objectives, monitoring performance, and fostering a culture of excellence, accountability, and continuous improvement.

• Act as the primary commercial and contractual point of contact for the client, maintaining strong and trusted relationships.

• Manage client expectations and ensure alignment on key commercial decisions.

What Required Skills You'll Bring:

• Bachelor’s degree in Quantity Surveying, Construction Management, Commercial Management, Law, or a related field.

• Minimum of 15 years’ post-qualification experience in commercial and contract management within the construction industry.

• At least 5 years’ experience in a senior leadership role within a major PMC, developer organization, or consultancy.

• Proven experience managing large-scale and complex infrastructure and mixed-use developments, including roads, bridges, utilities, marine works, residential and commercial buildings, and master-planned communities.

• In-depth knowledge and practical experience with FIDIC and other standard forms of contract commonly used in the region.

• Strong background in claims management, dispute resolution, and commercial negotiations.

• Proficiency in cost planning, value engineering, risk management, and financial control.

• Excellent leadership, team management, and mentoring capabilities.

• Exceptional communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.

• Strong commercial acumen, integrity, and professional ethics.

What Desired Skills You'll Bring:

• Chartered status with a recognized professional institution such as RICS or CIArb is advantageous.

• Experience managing projects with a combined capital value in the billions of dirhams.

• Active involvement in professional organizations and commitment to continuous professional development

• Significant experience in the UAE/Middle East, with Abu Dhabi experience strongly preferred.

We truly invest and care about our employee’s wellbeing and provide endless growth opportunities as the sky is the limit, so aim for the stars! Imagine next and join the Parsons quest—APPLY TODAY!

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