Contracts & Procurement Manager

Job description:Job SummaryWe are looking for an experienced Contracts & Procurement Manager to lead the Company's subcontract procurement and contract administration functions across all construction projects in the UAE.The successful candidate will be responsible for managing the complete subcontract procurement cycle, administering main contracts and subcontracts, overseeing claims and variations, mitigating contractual risks, and ensuring the Company's commercial and legal interests are protected throughout the project lifecycle.This role requires a commercially driven professional with strong expertise in procurement strategy, contract management, FIDIC contracts, negotiation, and subcontractor relationship management.Key ResponsibilitiesSubcontract ProcurementDevelop and implement subcontract procurement strategies across all Company projects.Lead the tendering process from invitation to bid through technical and commercial evaluation, negotiation, and contract award.Coordinate with Estimation, Planning, and Project teams to define subcontract scopes and tender packages.Ensure competitive bidding and best-value procurement while maintaining quality and project schedules.Build and maintain a strong network of qualified subcontractors across multiple construction disciplines.Contracts AdministrationAdminister main contracts and subcontracts in accordance with contractual obligations and Company procedures.Review, negotiate, and finalize contract terms with clients, consultants, and subcontractors.Prepare and maintain standard contract templates, contractual records, correspondence, and documentation.Provide contractual guidance and support to Project Management, Cost Control, and senior management teams.Claims, Variations & Commercial ManagementLead the preparation, submission, and negotiation of variations, claims, and Extension of Time (EOT) requests.Monitor contractual risks and develop mitigation strategies to protect the Company's commercial interests.Manage contractual correspondence and ensure compliance with contractual notice requirements.Coordinate with Finance, Cost Control, and Legal teams regarding claims, disputes, and commercial matters.Subcontractor & Commercial ManagementManage subcontractor prequalification and maintain the Company's approved subcontractor database.Evaluate subcontractor performance and recommend future engagement or blacklisting where necessary.Lead negotiations to achieve the best commercial and contractual outcomes.Coordinate subcontract award recommendations and obtain required management approvals.Leadership & ComplianceLead, mentor, and develop the Contracts & Procurement team.Monitor procurement activities, subcontract status, and contractual performance across all projects.Ensure compliance with Company policies, ethical standards, QHSE requirements, and UAE contractual regulations.Prepare regular reports for senior management on procurement progress, risks, and commercial performance.RequirementsBachelor's Degree in Civil Engineering, Quantity Surveying, Construction Law, Business Administration, or a related discipline.Master's Degree (MBA or Construction Law) is an advantage.Minimum 12 years of experience in Contracts & Procurement within the UAE construction industry, including at least 3 years in a managerial role.Strong experience in subcontract procurement, contract administration, tendering, claims, variations, and commercial negotiations.Excellent knowledge of FIDIC contracts and UAE construction practices.Strong leadership, analytical, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills.Ability to manage multiple projects and subcontract packages simultaneously.Professional certifications such as CIPS, MRICS, or MCIArb will be considered an advantage.Why Join Us?Lead procurement and contract management for major construction projects across the UAE.Work closely with senior leadership and play a key role in commercial decision-making.Opportunity to build long-term subcontractor partnerships and drive operational excellence.Competitive salary and career growth opportunities.