Commercial Lead

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced Commercial Lead to head the commercial function on a major UAE government client program based in Abu Dhabi. This position involves ensuring cost certainty, delivering value for money, and managing commercial risks based on an agreed baseline. The role entails overseeing estimating, cost management, change controls, and commercial governance for various stakeholders including ICC, Designer, Supervision Consultant, and Contractor. The Commercial Lead will provide senior assurance integral to the Program Management Consultant's (PMC) delivery management and advisory responsibilities.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the strategic direction and governance of commercial activities program-wide.
• Own and manage the cost baselines ensuring value assurance throughout the program.
• Direct estimating, budgeting, and comprehensive cost management processes.
• Govern change control procedures and manage contract variations efficiently.
• Supervise commercial risk management including contingency planning.
• Ensure compliance and administration of FIDIC-based commercial frameworks.
• Guide major commercial negotiations and resolve settlements at program level.
• Report on commercial performance metrics to senior leadership periodically.
• Coordinate commercial activities in alignment with cost and scheduling controls.
• Provide leadership and development opportunities to the commercial team members.

Required Qualifications and Experience

• Minimum of a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Quantity Surveying, or Law.
• Extensive commercial leadership experience spanning at least 20 years, focused on large-scale infrastructure projects.
• Deep knowledge and practical experience within the UAE and broader GCC commercial environments, especially within FIDIC contract frameworks.
• Professional certifications such as MRICS/FRICS or equivalent commercial qualifications are advantageous but not mandatory.
• Proven background as a commercial director or senior QS leader within PMC, consultancy, or contractor organisations.
• Relevant sector experience covering transport, roads, utilities, and municipal infrastructure projects.
• Experience managing commercial governance for government-funded delivery programs.

Ideal Candidate Profile

The ideal candidate will have led commercial management across major capital infrastructure programs and have experience directing commercial teams and negotiating at program levels. Experience with government clients and understanding of program delivery frameworks is essential.