Chief Operating Officer (COO) – Construction & Development

Company Description Cirrera Development is a boutique property developer based in Dubai, focused on crafting residences where design serves a clear purpose. The company approaches development as a detailed, end-to-end craft, from land acquisition and layout planning to long-term care of each property. With decades of combined experience across residential, commercial, hospitality, and infrastructure sectors, Cirrera’s leadership team brings global insight while staying grounded in the realities of living well in Dubai. Every project reflects a commitment to comfort-first design, timeless aesthetics, refined craftsmanship, and respect for Dubai’s cultural and environmental context. Cirrera’s debut project, Capital Horizon Terrace, showcases this philosophy through low-rise, high-spec buildings designed for enduring quality and value.Role Description The Chief Operating Officer (COO) – Construction & Development is a full-time, on-site role based in Dubai, responsible for overseeing end-to-end operational delivery of Cirrera’s development projects. The COO will lead construction operations, project planning, and execution, ensuring projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the company’s quality and design standards. This role includes managing cross-functional teams, coordinating with architects, contractors, and consultants, and implementing processes that promote safety, efficiency, and regulatory compliance. The COO will oversee budgeting and financial performance for projects, support business planning and pipeline development, and provide data-driven insights to guide strategic decisions. Daily responsibilities also include optimizing operational workflows, mentoring team members, managing key stakeholder relationships, and ensuring that each development aligns with Cirrera’s brand promise and long-term vision.Job PurposeTo establish and lead the company’s entire construction and development operation in the UAE from scratch, including company setup, team building, engineering, procurement, project delivery, financial control, and compliance. The role is accountable for delivering all projects on time, within budget, and to the required quality, safety, and regulatory standards while protecting the company’s profitability and reputation.Key ResponsibilitiesCompany Setup & Organizational DesignDesign and implement the operating model, organizational structure, and reporting lines for the construction/development company.Define departments and functions (engineering, procurement, project management, commercial, HSE, QA/QC, planning, site operations, etc.).Work with owners, legal, and PRO to complete company licensing, trade name, visas, office setup, insurances, and statutory registrations in Dubai/UAE.Develop and approve core policies and procedures (procurement policy, delegation of authority, approval matrix, HSE policy, quality policy, document control).Team Building & LeadershipIdentify, recruit, and hire all key roles: project directors/managers, construction managers, engineers (civil, structural, MEP), planners, QS/commercial, procurement, HSE, QA/QC, site supervisors, etc.Define job descriptions, KPIs, and performance management systems for the construction division.Lead onboarding, training, and development of the team; build a strong performance and accountability culture.Provide day‑to‑day leadership to all department heads and project teams.Project Delivery & Engineering OversightOwn end‑to‑end delivery of all projects from concept/design through construction, commissioning, and handover.Approve project execution plans, master schedules, resource plans, method statements, and quality plans.Ensure designs are coordinated, constructible, and aligned with budget and program (working with consultants and contractors).Monitor progress vs baseline; drive recovery plans and corrective actions when delays or issues arise.Procurement & Supply ChainEstablish the procurement function: vendor prequalification, tendering, negotiations, contracts, and purchase order process.Define procurement strategy per project (direct purchase vs subcontracting, local vs international sourcing).Oversee major packages: civil works, MEP, façade, interiors, landscaping, infrastructure, etc.Ensure compliance with approval workflows, value engineering, and cost control in all procurement activities.Financial & Cash Management (Construction Division)Prepare and manage the construction division’s budgets, cash flow forecasts, and cost reports.Control project costs, variations, and claims; ensure profitability targets are met.Work closely with finance on:Project cost codes and trackingPayment applications, certifications, and supplier/subcontractor paymentsCash planning for materials, manpower, and equipmentEnsure proper documentation and controls for internal and external audits.Commercial & Contract ManagementLead contract strategy with main contractors, subcontractors, suppliers, and consultants (e.g., FIDIC or other standard forms).Oversee tendering, bid evaluation, negotiation, and award recommendations.Manage variations, claims, disputes, and settlements in coordination with legal/commercial.Ensure compliance with UAE regulations and authority requirements (DM, DDA, Trakhees, utilities, etc., as applicable).HSE, Quality & ComplianceEstablish and enforce HSE and QA/QC frameworks across all sites and offices.Ensure compliance with UAE health, safety, environment, and building regulations.Drive a “zero harm” culture and conduct regular audits, inspections, and toolbox talks.Stakeholder & Authority ManagementAct as the main internal owner representative for all construction and development matters.Manage relationships with:Government authorities (DM, DDA, Trakhees, utilities, etc.)Consultants, contractors, suppliers, and partnersBanks, insurers, and other external stakeholdersRepresent the company in high‑level meetings, steering committees, and client/owner reviews.Reporting & GovernanceProvide regular reports to the board/owners on:Portfolio status (cost, time, quality, safety)Cash flow and financial exposureKey risks and mitigation plansImplement governance structures: monthly operational reviews, project review meetings, risk registers, and dashboards.Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)On‑time delivery of project milestones and handovers.Adherence to approved budgets and target profit margins.Safety performance (TRIR, incidents, near misses) and compliance audit results.Quality performance (defects, snags, rework levels).Procurement savings vs budget and vendor performance.Team stability, retention, and performance ratings.QualificationsBachelor’s degree in civil engineering, Construction Management, or related field (Master’s/MBA preferred).Professional certifications (PMP, PRINCE2, CIOB, RICS, or similar) are an advantage.ExperienceMinimum 15–20 years of experience in construction/development, with at least 7–10 years in a senior leadership role (COO / General Manager / Executive Director / Project Director).Proven track record in the UAE market, ideally with a developer or large main contractor.Experience setting up or significantly restructuring a construction/development operation from scratch is highly preferred.Strong exposure to mixed‑use, residential, commercial, or infrastructure projects in the UAE.Skills & CompetenciesStrategic thinking and business acumen.Strong leadership and people management skills.Excellent commercial, financial, and contract management skills (FIDIC, subcontracting, claims).Deep knowledge of UAE construction market, regulations, and authority processes.Strong negotiation, communication, and stakeholder management skills.High integrity and ability to work under pressure in a fast‑growing environment.Working ConditionsPrimarily office‑based with frequent site visits across project locations in Dubai/UAE.May require flexible hours and occasional travel within the UAE or region as needed.Interested candidates are welcome to send their resumes to hr_team@cirrera.com.