Commercial Director

Our client is a leading real estate developer in the UAE, renowned for delivering landmark residential, mixed-use, hospitality, and commercial developments. As part of their continued growth, they are seeking an accomplished Commercial Director to lead the commercial function across a portfolio of high-value developments, ensuring robust commercial governance, financial performance, and contractual excellence from pre-development through to project completion.Key ResponsibilitiesLead the commercial strategy across a portfolio of large-scale real estate developments.Oversee all commercial activities including cost planning, procurement, contract administration, commercial risk, and financial reporting.Develop and implement commercial policies, procedures, and governance frameworks to ensure best practice across the business.Manage project budgets from feasibility through to final account, ensuring developments are delivered within approved financial parameters.Provide strategic commercial advice to Executive Management throughout the development lifecycle.Lead value engineering initiatives to maximise project value while maintaining quality and design intent.Direct procurement strategies, tender evaluations, contract negotiations, and consultant and contractor appointments.Manage change control, claims, variations, dispute resolution, and contractual negotiations.Monitor project cash flow, cost forecasts, contingencies, and financial exposure.Work closely with Development, Design, Construction, Finance, Legal, and Procurement teams to ensure commercial objectives are achieved.Present commercial updates and financial reports to senior leadership and executive stakeholders.Mentor and develop a high-performing commercial team while driving continuous improvement across the department.Ensure compliance with company governance, contractual obligations, and UAE industry regulations.Candidate RequirementsBachelor's Degree in Quantity Surveying, Commercial Management, Construction Management, or a related discipline.MRICS or equivalent professional qualification is highly desirable.15+ years' commercial management experience within the real estate or construction sector.Significant experience delivering major residential, mixed-use, hospitality, or masterplan developments.Previous experience as a Commercial Director, or Head of Commercial with a leading developer.Strong knowledge of FIDIC contracts, procurement strategies, contract law, and commercial best practice.Proven ability to manage large project budgets and commercial teams across multiple developments.Excellent leadership, negotiation, stakeholder management, and commercial decision-making skills.Strong financial acumen with the ability to influence executive-level business decisions.UAE or GCC experience is highly preferred.