About Arena
Arena is an international integrated event services company. The company provides event solutions, designing and delivering temporary environments to a variety of sporting, commercial and cultural events across the globe.
With a global reach that extends from the US, UK and Middle East & Asia, Arena pride themselves on their ability to provide the Arena Standard around the world. Offering a truly tailored and bespoke experience with an extensive product offering around the world, Arena turn space into place.
Flagship recurring events include the Olympics, Rugby World Cup, Commonwealth Games, Ryder Cup, European Tour, Wimbledon Championships, PGA Tour, European Tour.
For more info: https://arenagroup.com/me/
Position Description
Job Title: Senior Quantity Surveyor
Reporting Into: Head of Commercial & Contracts
Direct Reports:
Location: Dubai, UAE
Job Objective:
The role of Senior Quantity Surveyor involves overseeing the commercial and contractual aspects of modular and semi-permanent structure projects across the region. This role requires a proactive leader capable of handling end-to-end project cost control, from early estimation to final reconciliation. The ideal candidate will be a subject-matter expert who ensures projects are financially viable, align with client expectations, and meet internal profitability goals.
Key Responsibilities
- Take ownership of the commercial function for key modular/semi-permanent projects.
- Lead the preparation and management of budgets, BOQs, and cost reports in coordination with the Head of Commercial & Contracts.
- Liaise closely with Project, Account, and Operations Managers to develop robust cost plans and monitor financial performance.
- Review, challenge, and approve project cost estimates prepared by QS or Account Managers.
- Develop and maintain supplier/subcontractor relationships to optimize cost and quality.
- Conduct risk, value management, and cost control during the project lifecycle.
- Provide guidance and mentorship to junior QS staff, ensuring high-quality standards and consistency across deliverables.
- Lead post-project financial reviews and reconciliations with a strong focus on lessons learned and commercial improvement.
- Ensure timely reporting of budget variances and support internal audits or cost performance reviews.
- Stay abreast of market conditions, material prices, and supplier trends to inform procurement and budgeting strategies. Assist Production Coordinator & Account Managers with reconciling supplier costs on projects.
Required Skills/Abilities:
- Strong leadership qualities with a hands-on approach to commercial management.
- High level of proficiency in Excel and commercial software tools such as CANDY.
- Effective negotiation skills and experience working with suppliers and subcontractors.
- Strong analytical skills with attention to detail and ability to forecast financial trends.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to interpret complex drawings and construction documents.
- Strong organizational skills with the ability to handle multiple projects under tight deadlines.
- Professionalism in representing Arena with clients and external partners.
Education and Experience:
- Degree in Quantity Surveying, Civil Engineering, or a related field.
- Minimum 710 years of experience in quantity surveying, with at least 3 years in a senior QS role.
- Proven experience in modular structures, fit-out, or semi-permanent construction is essential.
- Prior experience in the event industry or temporary structure projects is a strong advantage.
- Proficient in AutoCAD and Sketchup; able to produce basic technical drawings if required.
- Familiarity with international procurement standards and project contracts.
