Commercial Director

Parsons Corporation

We are seeking an exceptional Commercial Director to join our project leadership team for a prestigious portfolio of large-scale infrastructure projects for a major Abu Dhabi developer. As a senior member of the Project Management Consultancy (PMC), you will provide executive oversight for all commercial and contractual aspects of the portfolio and safeguard the commercial interests of both our client and our organization, driving value, compliance, and operational excellence across the portfolio.

The Commercial Director will manage the entire commercial lifecycle of the projects, from procurement and contract formation through to final account settlement. This role requires directing and overseeing the commercial performance of multiple project teams, supervision consultants, and contractors to ensure the portfolio is delivered within budget and in full compliance with all contractual obligations.

What You ll Be Doing:

• Develop and implement the portfolio-wide commercial strategy, policies, and procedures to optimize project profitability and mitigate risk.

• Provide high-level strategic advice to the PMC leadership and the client's executive team on all commercial, contractual, and financial matters.

• Establish and manage a robust commercial risk management framework, identifying potential risks and implementing proactive mitigation strategies.

• Lead the development and implementation of comprehensive commercial reporting systems for all stakeholders.

• Direct the overall procurement strategy for the portfolio, including the selection and pre-qualification of contractors and consultants.

• Oversee the entire tendering process, from preparation of tender documents to evaluation, negotiation, and contract award recommendations.

• Ensure the robust administration of all contracts (Client-PMC, Client-Contractor, Client-Supervision Consultant), with a focus on Client Contract and other relevant forms of contract.

• Provide expert interpretation of contract conditions and ensure all parties adhere to their contractual obligations, including the management of notices and formal correspondence.

• Direct the management of the payment and certification process, ensuring contractor and consultant applications for payment are rigorously assessed and processed in a timely manner.

• Lead the commercial review and valuation of all variations, change orders, and instructions, negotiating equitable settlements on behalf of the client.

• Establish a proactive claims management strategy focused on avoidance and early resolution.

• Oversee the assessment and evaluation of all contractor claims for Extension of Time (EOT) and additional costs, preparing detailed recommendations for the client.

• Lead all major commercial negotiations with contractors and consultants to resolve disputes amicably and commercially.

• Act as the primary focal point for managing formal dispute resolution procedures, such as mediation, adjudication, or arbitration, if they arise.

• Lead, mentor, and manage a high-performing team of Contracts Managers, Quantity Surveyors, and other commercial staff across the portfolio.

• Set clear objectives, manage performance, and foster a culture of excellence, accountability, and continuous improvement within the commercial department.

• Ensure adequate and effective commercial resources are allocated to each project within the portfolio.

• Serve as the principal commercial point of contact for the client, building and maintaining a strong, trust-based relationship.

• Prepare and present high-level commercial and financial reports to the client's senior management and other key stakeholders.

• Effectively manage client expectations and ensure alignment on all key commercial decisions.

What Required Skills You ll Bring:

• Bachelor s degree in Quantity Surveying, Construction Management, Commercial Management, Law, or a related field.

• Minimum 20 years of post-qualification experience in commercial and contracts management within the construction industry.

• At least 10 years in a senior leadership role (e.g., Commercial Director, Head of Commercial) for a major PMC, Developer, or Consultancy.

• Extensive experience managing large-scale, complex infrastructure projects (e.g., roads, bridges, utilities, marine works, masterplan developments).

• Significant experience in the UAE/Middle East; Abu Dhabi experience preferred.

• Chartered status with a recognized institution (e.g., RICS, CIARB) is advantageous.

• Demonstrated expertise in FIDIC and other standard forms of contract used in the region.

• Mastery of claims management, dispute resolution, and commercial negotiation.

• Advanced proficiency in cost planning, value engineering, risk management, and financial control.

• Exceptional leadership, team-building, and mentoring capabilities.

• Superior communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence and engage senior executives and stakeholders.

• High degree of commercial acumen, integrity, and professional ethics.

What Desired Skills You ll Bring:

• Experience managing project portfolios with a combined capital value in the billions of dirhams.

• Cradle-to-grave project lifecycle experience, from feasibility and procurement through to handover and final account close-out.

• Active engagement with professional bodies and a commitment to continuous professional development.