Commercial Director - Residential Developments

About the role

JLL is hiring a Commercial Director in Dubai to lead all commercial activities for several prestigious residential developments at an Executive Cost Management level. The role ensures profitable delivery while maintaining client relationships, combining strategic commercial oversight with operational excellence.

Key responsibilities

• Manage project budgets, forecasting and financial performance monitoring
• Lead tender preparation, pricing strategies and bid submissions
• Oversee contract negotiations, risk assessment and commercial terms
• Ensure compliance with contractual obligations and commercial governance
• Identify and pursue new business opportunities and build relationships with key clients, consultants and stakeholders
• Lead strategic partnerships and joint venture negotiations, and represent the company at industry events and client presentations
• Lead and expand the site commercial team, establish commercial processes and foster a culture of commercial excellence
• Identify and mitigate commercial and contractual risks, oversee claims management, variations and dispute resolution
• Monitor project margins, cash flow and profitability KPIs, and implement commercial controls and reporting systems

Required profile

• Bachelor's degree in Quantity Surveying, Construction Management, Engineering or a related field
• Professional membership: MRICS
• 12+ years of commercial experience in the construction industry
• 5+ years of experience in the UAE with in-depth knowledge of the local construction market
• 8+ years working for tier 1 international cost management companies
• Experience managing large-scale masterplans and a proven track record on residential projects of $1Bn+
• Experience across commercial, residential and infrastructure sectors, and a strong background in contract administration and commercial law

Required skills

• Advanced knowledge of construction contracts (JCT, NEC, FIDIC)
• Expert-level commercial and financial acumen
• Strong negotiation and relationship management skills
• Board-level presentations and excellent written, verbal and presentation communication
• Strategic thinking with attention to operational details