Head of Contracts

About the role

Big Fish Consulting is looking for an experienced Head of Contracts to lead the contracts function for a leading contracting company in Dubai. You will oversee all pre‑ and post‑contract activities, manage contractual risks and support project delivery teams throughout the project lifecycle.

Key responsibilities

• Lead and manage the Contracts Department across multiple construction projects.
• Draft, review, negotiate and administer agreements with clients, consultants, subcontractors and suppliers.
• Provide contractual and commercial advice to project and senior management teams.
• Identify, assess and mitigate contractual risks and liabilities.
• Lead claims, variations, extension of time submissions and dispute resolution processes.
• Ensure compliance with contract terms, company policies and applicable regulations.
• Manage subcontract agreements, contract correspondence and documentation.
• Support tender reviews and advise on commercial and contractual obligations during bid submissions.
• Develop and improve contract management procedures, controls and best practices.
• Mentor and develop the contracts team to ensure high performance and continuous improvement.

Required profile

• Bachelor's degree in Law, Quantity Surveying, Construction Management, Engineering or a related field.
• 12+ years of contracts management experience within construction or contracting companies.
• Proven experience managing large‑scale building, infrastructure, mixed‑use, hospitality or industrial projects.
• Strong knowledge of FIDIC and other standard forms of contract.
• Demonstrated expertise in claims management, dispute resolution and commercial negotiations.
• Excellent stakeholder management and leadership skills.
• MEP contracting experience is highly desirable.
• Professional certifications such as MRICS, CIArb, CCM or equivalent are advantageous.

Required skills

• FIDIC
• Claims management
• Dispute resolution
• MEP contracting
• Commercial negotiations
• Contract management procedures