Job Title: Contracts & Claims Manager - Civil
Location: Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Reports to: Commercial Director / Project Director
Industry: Civil Engineering
Role Overview
We are seeking a highly skilled Contracts & Claims Manager with expertise in civil engineering and rail infrastructure projects to manage contract administration, claims, and dispute resolution for large-scale projects in Dubai. The successful candidate will ensure that all contractual obligations are met and that any claims arising from project changes, delays, or disputes are managed professionally and efficiently.
Key Responsibilities

• Contract Administration: Oversee the preparation, negotiation, and administration of all project contracts, ensuring compliance with legal and commercial requirements.
• Claims Management: Manage all claims related to project changes, delays, and variations, ensuring that claims are accurately documented and submitted within contractual timelines.
• Risk Mitigation: Identify potential contractual risks and develop strategies to minimise exposure, ensuring that risks are effectively managed throughout the project lifecycle.
• Dispute Resolution: Lead the resolution of disputes with contractors, clients, and third parties, ensuring that disputes are handled promptly and professionally, with a focus on achieving favourable outcomes.
• Contract Negotiation: Assist in negotiating contract terms and conditions with clients, subcontractors, and suppliers, ensuring that all contracts are fair and in line with project objectives.
• Cost Control: Work closely with the commercial and project management teams to ensure that all contractual costs are monitored and controlled, with any deviations appropriately addressed.
• Legal Compliance: Ensure that all contract and claims activities comply with local laws, industry regulations, and company policies.
• Documentation and Reporting: Maintain thorough and accurate documentation of all contracts, claims, variations, and related communications. Prepare regular reports on claims and contract performance for senior management.
• Stakeholder Communication: Serve as the main point of contact for all contractual matters, liaising with internal teams, clients, contractors, and external legal counsel as necessary.
• Training and Development: Provide training and guidance to project teams on contract management, claims procedures, and dispute resolution strategies.

Skills and Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Law, Quantity Surveying, Civil Engineering, or a related field. A Master’s degree or professional certifications such as MRICS or CIArb would be highly desirable.
• Experience: Minimum of 10-12 years’ experience in contract and claims management for civil and rail infrastructure projects, with at least 5 years in a senior role.
• Regional Experience: Experience working on projects in the Middle East, particularly in Dubai or the UAE, is highly advantageous.
• Technical Expertise: Strong understanding of FIDIC contracts, civil engineering principles, rail infrastructure requirements, and construction project delivery.
• Claims Handling: Extensive experience in claims preparation, including time extension claims, disruption, and variations.
• Negotiation Skills: Strong negotiation skills, with a proven track record of resolving disputes and achieving positive outcomes in contract negotiations and claims settlements.
• Legal Knowledge: Familiarity with UAE contract law, local regulations, and industry standards is essential.
• Communication Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to draft and review contract terms, claims documentation, and legal correspondence.
• Attention to Detail: Strong analytical skills with a high degree of accuracy in contract interpretation and claims preparation.

Personal Attributes

• Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple priorities
• Strong problem-solving skills, with a proactive approach to identifying and mitigating risks
• Culturally aware, with the ability to work effectively in a diverse team environment
• Highly organised, with the ability to manage complex projects and large volumes of documentation

Remuneration
A competitive salary and benefits package will be offered, commensurate with experience and qualifications.
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent