Contracts Manager - Remote location

Our client a leading Tier 1 contractor is seeking an experienced Contracts Manager to join a major Oil & Gas project in a remote location in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, high preferences to candiates with a transferable iqama. The successful candidate will be responsible for the full spectrum of contract management activities across a large-scale and complex project, including contract administration, commercial correspondence, claims management, variations, subcontract administration, and contractual risk management. The ideal candidate will have a strong Mechanical Engineering background, extensive experience working on major Oil & Gas, EPC, industrial, or infrastructure projects, and a proven ability to manage complex contractual matters within a Tier 1 contracting environment. Key Responsibilities - Lead and manage all contractual and commercial matters relating to the project. - Provide contractual advice and guidance to the Project Director, Project Management team, and senior stakeholders. - Administer the main contract and ensure compliance with all contractual obligations, notices, procedures, and deliverables. - Manage contractual correspondence with the Client, Consultant, subcontractors, and other project stakeholders. - Identify, assess, and mitigate contractual and commercial risks throughout the project lifecycle. - Lead the preparation, submission, negotiation, and resolution of: - Variations and change orders - Extension of Time (EOT) claims - Disruption and prolongation claims - Commercial claims and counterclaims - Ensure all contractual notices and communications are issued within the required contractual timeframes. - Manage subcontract and supplier contractual matters, including change management, claims, disputes, and final account negotiations. - Work closely with Planning, Cost Control, Procurement, Engineering, Construction, and Commercial teams to support project performance. - Develop and maintain contractual registers, risk registers, claims logs, and other contractual documentation. - Support dispute avoidance and dispute resolution processes where required. - Lead negotiations with Clients, subcontractors, and other external stakeholders on significant contractual and commercial matters. - Ensure accurate record-keeping and documentation to support contractual entitlement and defend against potential claims. - Mentor and provide guidance to junior Contracts and Commercial team members. - Ensure that all contract management activities are undertaken in accordance with company policies, procedures, and project requirements. Candidate Requirements - Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related Mechanical Engineering discipline. - A minimum of 20 years' professional experience in Contracts Management, Commercial Management, or a closely related discipline. - Significant experience working on large-scale and complex construction projects. - Previous experience within the Oil & Gas, EPC, petrochemical, industrial, or energy sectors is essential. - Strong Mechanical Engineering background with experience working on mechanical-heavy construction scopes. - Proven experience working for a Tier 1 contractor or major international EPC/construction organisation. - Extensive experience managing major contracts, variations, claims, change orders, and contractual disputes. - Strong understanding of contract forms and contract administration principles. - Experience working on projects in Saudi Arabia and/or the wider GCC region would be highly advantageous. - Excellent negotiation, communication, and stakeholder management skills. - Ability to operate effectively within a demanding project environment and remote site location. - Strong leadership and team management capabilities. - Professional certifications such as MRICS, MCIPS, FCIArb, or equivalent would be advantageous. Essential Requirements - 20+ years of relevant professional experience. - Mechanical Engineering background is mandatory. - Proven experience on large-scale projects. - Previous Oil & Gas / EPC / industrial project experience is essential. - Experience working for a Tier 1 contractor or equivalent major organisation. - Willingness and ability to work on a remote project site in Saudi Arabia. - Must currently hold a transferable Saudi Arabian Iqama. Package The successful candidate will be offered a competitive salary and benefits package, commensurate with experience, along with the opportunity to work on a prestigious and high-profile Oil & Gas project in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.