Head of Projects / Project Manager Construction (Client-Side / Developer)
Location: UAE
Salary: Competitive (Based on experience)
Role Overview
We are seeking an experienced Project Manager Construction to join a leading real estate developer. This role is client-side and will be responsible for the end-to-end delivery of real estate and infrastructure projects, ensuring successful execution from concept through to handover.
The ideal candidate will bring a strong balance of technical expertise, commercial acumen, and stakeholder management, with proven experience working on large-scale developments.
Key Responsibilities
Project Delivery
- Lead full project lifecycle: planning, design, procurement, construction, and handover
- Ensure projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to required quality standards
- Manage multiple projects or large-scale developments simultaneously
- Design & Technical Coordination
Review and coordinate:
- Architectural, structural, and MEP drawings
- Ensure alignment between consultants, contractors, and internal teams
- Drive value engineering and design optimization
- Contract & Commercial Management
Oversee preparation and review of:
- BOQs, tenders, and contract documentation
- Manage contractor procurement, evaluation, and appointment
- Administer contracts (preferably FIDIC-based) and manage variations/claims
- Project Controls & Cost Management
Develop and monitor:
- Project schedules
- Budgets and cost forecasts
- Track progress and implement corrective actions where required
- Ensure robust project controls and reporting frameworks are in place
Stakeholder Management
Act as the key interface between:
- Internal leadership
- Consultants
- Contractors
- Regulatory authorities
- Provide regular progress reports to senior management
Risk & Compliance
- Identify and mitigate project risks
- Ensure compliance with:
- Local regulations
- Health & safety standards
- Company governance frameworks
Team Leadership
- Lead and coordinate project teams, including engineers and consultants
- Drive performance, accountability, and delivery excellence
Requirements
Experience
- 812+ years of experience in:
- Construction project management
- Real estate development (developer/client-side preferred)
- Proven track record delivering large-scale projects
Education
- Bachelor's degree in:
- Civil Engineering
- Construction Management
- Architecture or related field
- Certifications (Preferred)
- PMP, PRINCE2, or equivalent
- Strong knowledge of FIDIC contracts
Technical Skills
- Strong understanding of:
- Project lifecycle management
- Contracts and procurement
- Cost control and planning tools (e.g., Primavera, MS Project)
- Solid knowledge of MEP systems and construction methodologies
Other Requirements
- Experience working in the UAE and/or KSA
- Arabic language skills are an advantage
- Ability to work in a client-facing, on-site environment
Key Competencies
- Strong commercial and contractual awareness
- Excellent stakeholder and communication skills
- Hands-on, solution-oriented approach
- Ability to manage complexity across multiple projects and teams
