Contracts Manager
Location: Abu Dhabi, UAEContract Type: Contract
Job Purpose
The Contracts Manager will work within a Project Management Consultancy (PMC) environment, acting on behalf of the client (project owner) to oversee and manage the work of engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) contractors. The primary role is to ensure that the project is executed according to contractual obligations, quality standards, schedules, and budget. The Contracts Manager does not perform the actual engineering design or construction work.
Key Responsibilities
- Oversee and manage the work of EPC contractors to ensure compliance with contractual obligations, quality standards, schedules, and budget.
- Administer contracts, including monitoring compliance, managing documentation, and ensuring all parties meet their obligations.
- Review and verify engineering deliverables (drawings, specifications, and reports) for compliance with project specifications, design basis, and industry standards.
- Track project progress against established schedules and budgets, identify potential delays or cost overruns, and prepare reports for management.
- Ensure construction and installation activities comply with quality control (QA/QC) standards, safety regulations, and environmental standards.
- Coordinate communication between the client, contractors, and stakeholders, especially in large, complex projects involving multiple vendors.
- Manage and resolve issues, design changes (variation orders), and potential claims or disputes according to contract requirements.
- Support tendering activities, including preparing invitation to tender (ITB) documents, evaluating bids, and assisting with contract awards.
- Conduct regular audits and quality checks of contract management systems and records to maintain accuracy and compliance.
- Generate reports, registers, and logs for progress meetings, management reviews, and audits.
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Business Administration, or a closely related field.
- Minimum 16 years' experience in PMC activities, project contract administration, procurement, communication, and contracting.
- At least 15 years' experience with EPC phases: FEED, detailed engineering, procurement, construction, commissioning, and start-up.
- Minimum 10 years' experience in the oil and gas industry.
- Minimum 5 years' experience in a related designation or specialty.
- In-depth understanding of contract terms and conditions, contract law, and international standard forms such as FIDIC.
- Experience in the Middle East or with major regional clients is preferred.
- Excellent knowledge of various contracting types and strategies related to project execution.
- Knowledge of claims causes and preventive actions.
- Expertise in electronic contract management systems.
- Competency with relevant engineering software and general business software (Microsoft Office suite, advanced Excel for financial analysis).
- Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, excellent communication and interpersonal skills, and the ability to work effectively in a demanding team environment.
Industry Sectors
- Oil & Gas (Onshore)
- Petrochemicals & Refining
- LNG Facilities
- Power Plants (CCGT, Thermal, Renewable)
- Mining & Heavy Industrial Plants
- Large Infrastructure / Utilities