Commercial Director

AtkinsR alis

Job Description

AtkinsR alis is looking for a Commercial Director , in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates .

AtkinsR alis is seeking a Commercial Director to lead the commercial strategy and delivery oversight for the UAE High-Speed Rail (HSR) Intercity Project - Phase 1, covering both Abu Dhabi and Dubai scopes as a part of core team. This role will be responsible for managing contracts, procurement, cost control, and commercial risk across multiple Design & Build packages, including civil works, stations, systems, depots, rolling stock, and track.

The Commercial Director will serve as the senior commercial interface with the client, contractors, and internal teams, ensuring transparency, compliance, and financial performance throughout the programme lifecycle.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Commercial Leadership

• Define and implement commercial strategies aligned with programme objectives, market conditions, and client expectations.
• Lead commercial input into procurement planning, contract structuring, and delivery models.
• Ensure commercial alignment across all packages and disciplines.

Contract & Claims Management

• Lead negotiation, administration, and resolution of contracts, ensuring compliance with legal frameworks and client requirements.
• Oversee preparation and management of contract documentation, including Letters of Acceptance (LOA), change control notices, and claims analysis.
• Monitor contract performance and implement mitigation strategies for commercial risks.

Cost Management & Forecasting

• Oversee cost planning, budgeting, and forecasting across all workstreams.
• Ensure adherence to cost management guidelines and promote best practices across the procurement lifecycle.
• Support change management processes, including estimating, agreement of changes, and early warning notices.

Procurement & Supply Chain Oversight

• Develop and implement procurement strategies that align with project timelines and commercial goals.
• Manage supply chain relationships and ensure timely delivery of goods and services.
• Review and validate contractor pay applications and ensure timely approvals.

Risk & Performance Monitoring

• Identify and manage commercial risks across the project lifecycle.
• Maintain change management logs and ensure commercial reporting is accurate and timely.
• Establish and maintain consistent commercial procedures across all project teams.

Stakeholder Engagement

• Act as the senior commercial point of contact for clients, consultants, and contractors.
• Ensure transparency and trust in all commercial dealings and foster long-term relationships.
• Coordinate with construction and project managers to resolve commercial and contractual issues.

Team Leadership & Development

• Lead and mentor commercial teams, including quantity surveyors and contract managers.
• Ensure high professional standards, accuracy, and accountability across the commercial function.
• Foster a culture of continuous improvement and knowledge sharing.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Quantity Surveying, Commercial Management, Construction Law, or related field (Master's preferred).
• Professional accreditation (e.g., MRICS, MCIOB, or equivalent).
• Minimum 20 years of experience in commercial leadership roles, with significant exposure to rail or infrastructure programmes.
• Strong knowledge of contract law, cost control, procurement, and dispute resolution.
• Experience in the Middle East preferred.
• Sector Experience :

• Proven experience in managing commercial aspects of large-scale infrastructure programmes, preferably in high-speed rail, metro, or intercity rail systems.
• Strong understanding of Design & Build contract models, including FIDIC and NEC frameworks.
• Familiarity with UAE commercial regulations, procurement practices, and dispute resolution processes.
• Experience working with international contractors and multidisciplinary consultant teams.

Why choose AtkinsR alis?

• Tax-free salary.
• Life insurance coverage.
• Comprehensive medical insurance coverage.
• Paid Annual leave.
• Company gratuity scheme.
• Discretionary bonus program.
• Annual flight contribution.
• Relocation assistance.
• Transportation & housing allowances.
• Employee Wellbeing Program: 24/7 access to specialists in finance, legal matters, family care, as well as personal health, fitness, and nutrition consulting.