Senior Commercial Manager | Real Estate | Asset Development

Overview

Job Requisition ID: 169927 

Established in the 1930s as a trading business, Al-Futtaim Group today is one of the most diversified and progressive, privately held regional businesses headquartered in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Structured into five operating divisions; automotive, financial services, real estate, retail and healthcare; employing more than 35,000 employees across more than 20 countries in the Middle East, Asia and Africa, Al-Futtaim Group partners with over 200 of the world’s most admired and innovative brands. Al-Futtaim Group’s entrepreneurship and relentless customer focus enables the organization to continue to grow and expand; responding to the changing needs of our customers within the societies in which we operate. 

By upholding our values of respect, excellence, collaboration and integrity; Al-Futtaim Group continues to enrich the lives and aspirations of our customers each and every day

Overview of the role

Responsible for overseeing the contractual and commercial aspects of projects, including the management of a dedicated team of project-specific commercial staff. Ensures the effective delivery of commercial services to support project execution from inception to completion, on time and within budget, in alignment with group policies and established processes.

What you will do

• Provide commercial advice to internal clients and the development division to minimize risk, achieve best value, and maximize return on investment.
• Advise project teams on procurement of projects and consultancy services to meet time, cost, and quality objectives.
• Assist in the preparation of project development feasibility studies and presentations.
• Provide and manage pre- and post-contract Quantity Surveying services, including cost estimation, monthly accounts, cost and budget forecasting, quantum analysis of claims and variations, and final account settlement.
• Monitor and ensure relevant project insurance policies are maintained, including Professional Indemnity, Contractors All Risk, and Third Party coverage.
• Report on portfolio costs, budgets, and risks on a monthly basis.
• Manage claims and disputes using internal or outsourced resources, ensuring compliance with contractual terms and deadlines.
• Develop and maintain an internal cost database.
• Lead, coach, and motivate staff to maximize their effectiveness and contribution.
• Adapt standard form contracts in coordination with Group Legal for consultant and contractor agreements, maintenance/service agreements, and procurement contracts.
• Ensure compliance with internal processes and obtain necessary approvals in line with Delegation of Authority.
• Review and implement improved administrative procedures for operational efficiency.
• Draft project and commercial reports (e.g., RFA, BCP).
• Implement processes to reduce procurement cycle time between requisition and order placement.
• Prepare Requests for Proposal (RFPs) and Invitation to Bid documents; advise on tenderer selection, evaluate bids, lead negotiations, and prepare final recommendations.

Required skills to be successful

• Minimum 15+ years of significant experience on major projects across Infrastructure, Retail, Residential, High-Rise, and Hotel developments, preferably with a developer or in a client-representative role, with a background in contracting or PQS.
• Proven track record in managing all commercial aspects, including cost planning, estimation, tendering, procurement, contract administration, and post-contract activities for large-scale projects from inception to handover
• Strong contract knowledge and negotiation skills, with essential experience and understanding of the UAE market.

What equips you for the role

• Majority of the experience must be working for PQS firm / Client / Contractor
• Must have knowledge of FIDIC and preparation of RFPs and contracts
• Proven success in managing all commercial aspects for large scale projects from inception to handover
• Excellent interpersonal skills and strong stakeholder management capabilities.
• UAE experience is a must.
• Proficient in MS Office suites including MSWord, Excel, PowerPoint, Project Manager

About Al-Futtaim Group Real Estate
The real estate development and operations arm of Al-Futtaim, Al-Futtaim Group Real Estate is responsible for a multi-billion-dollar portfolio across MENA. With high-quality residential, business, retail, tourism, educational and healthcare developments, the master developer caters to the diverse needs of cities and communities in the region. From origination, conception, development, sales, procurement and construction of mega-projects and the leasing, operation and management of these projects after completion, Al-Futtaim Group Real Estate (AFGRE) has been developing and managing owned landbanks, unlocking the economic potential of the region and contributing to future development for more than 40 years. 
Our focus is to enable and invest in meaningful relationships to make our properties the best places to live and work, build additional products and services and enable partnerships to create true value to our customers throughout their entire experience with us.
AFGRE is responsible for master planning of all projects in its portfolio, including two large scale mixed use destinations: Dubai Festival City and Cairo Festival City.