Opportunities in Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Location: Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Reports to: Director of Projects / Group COO Industry: Real Estate Development / Construction / Private Holding

Role Summary:

A leading, privately held UAE-based holding group is seeking a seasoned Senior Construction Manager to oversee and manage construction operations across a portfolio of high-profile real estate and infrastructure projects. The ideal candidate will have deep regional experience, a strong technical background, and proven success delivering complex projects within family-owned or private conglomerates.

This is a leadership role, working closely with internal stakeholders, consultants, and contractors to ensure quality, cost, and time objectives are achieved, while upholding the groups commitment to excellence.

Project Execution & Site Management

• Oversee day-to-day construction activities on multiple project sites to ensure compliance with design, safety, quality, and timeline requirements.
• Coordinate with consultants, contractors, and vendors to manage schedules, procurement, and deliverables.
• Conduct regular site inspections and ensure alignment with the project plan, specifications, and standards.

Planning & Coordination

• Work closely with the Planning Manager and Project Managers to validate construction schedules and resource requirements.
• Lead the development of work breakdown structures (WBS), construction methodologies, and phasing plans.
• Ensure seamless coordination between structural, MEP, architectural, and finishing works.

Contract & Cost Management

• Monitor contractor performance against agreed terms, milestones, and SLAs.
• Evaluate change orders, claims, and variations in collaboration with the contracts and cost team.
• Support procurement and tender evaluations from a construction standpoint.

Quality & Safety Oversight

• Ensure that construction works comply with UAE codes, authority approvals, and internal quality standards.
• Implement and monitor HSE plans and ensure all contractors comply with site safety regulations.
• Drive snagging, de-snagging, and handover processes.

Leadership & Stakeholder Management

• Lead site teams and supervise construction engineers, site inspectors, and subcontractors.
• Report regularly to the senior management team and provide updates on progress, risks, and mitigation plans.
• Maintain close coordination with design consultants and ensure resolution of technical issues.

Required Qualifications & Experience:

• Bachelors degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, or related discipline (Masters is a plus).
• Minimum 12-15 years of construction experience, with at least 5 years in a senior site management role.
• GCC/UAE experience is essential, preferably with high-end mixed-use, residential, hospitality, or commercial developments.
• Proven track record in delivering complex, fast-track projects on time and within budget.
• Strong knowledge of local regulations, authority requirements (Dubai Municipality, Trakhees, RERA, etc.).
• Prior experience working within or for family-owned businesses or private developers is highly desirable.
• Proficiency in construction software (Primavera P6, MS Project, AutoCAD, etc.)

Key Competencies:

• Leadership and team management
• Problem-solving and decision-making
• Strong communication and reporting skills
• Quality and cost control focus
• Adaptability to family office work culture and expectations

Compensation & Confidentiality:

• Competitive executive-level package
• Long-term opportunity in a stable and respected organization
• All applications will be handled with strict confidentiality