Commercial Manager

Role Overview

Commercial Manager at JLL for the Diriyah Square development in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This is a full-time, on-site position within the FIDIC Engineer and Project Management Consultancy (PMC) team.

Company Overview

JLL is a leading global provider of real estate and investment management services. The organization combines world-class services, advisory, and technology to shape the future of real estate. JLL is committed to hiring talented people and empowering them to build meaningful careers.

Role Purpose

To provide comprehensive commercial management oversight for the prestigious Diriyah Square mega-project, ensuring FIDIC contract compliance, cost control, and effective coordination between the client, contractors, cost consultant, and PMC team.

Key Responsibilities

Commercial Management

• Provide comprehensive commercial management services as part of the FIDIC Engineer and PMC team for Diriyah Square development
• Administer FIDIC contract conditions, ensuring compliance with contractual obligations and procedures
• Review, evaluate, and make recommendations on contractor payment applications, variations, claims, and extensions of time
• Manage the commercial aspects of multiple work packages and contracts simultaneously
• Prepare and present commercial reports to senior management and clients
• Identify commercial risks and opportunities, implementing mitigation strategies

Cost Consultant Oversight

• Provide direct oversight and management of the appointed cost consultant
• Review and validate cost consultant deliverables including valuations, cost reports, and change order assessments
• Ensure cost consultant performance meets project requirements and quality standards
• Coordinate cost management activities between the cost consultant, contractors, and client
• Challenge and verify cost consultant recommendations and cost forecasts

Contract Administration

• Lead the administration of FIDIC-based contracts including Red Book, Yellow Book, or Silver Book conditions
• Issue Engineer's instructions, determinations, and certificates in accordance with FIDIC procedures
• Evaluate and negotiate contractor claims for additional time and money
• Manage variation order processes from inception through approval and implementation
• Maintain comprehensive contract documentation and records

Financial Management

• Monitor project budgets and financial performance against approved baselines
• Prepare cash flow forecasts and expenditure projections
• Review and approve interim payment certificates
• Manage final account processes and close-out procedures
• Ensure accurate and timely financial reporting

Stakeholder Management

• Act as key commercial interface between client, contractors, consultants, and PMC team
• Facilitate commercial meetings and dispute resolution discussions
• Provide commercial advice and support to the Engineer and PMC leadership
• Build and maintain strong working relationships with all project stakeholders

Qualifications & Experience

Education

• Bachelor's degree in Quantity Surveying, Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or related discipline
• Professional qualification (MRICS, CIOB, or equivalent) highly desirable

Experience

• Minimum 12–15 years of commercial management experience in construction and infrastructure projects
• Substantial experience working under FIDIC contract conditions as part of an Engineer or PMC team
• Proven track record managing commercial aspects of mega-projects (US$500M+)
• Experience in the Middle East/GCC region, preferably Saudi Arabia
• Demonstrated experience providing oversight of cost consultants or quantity surveying teams
• Experience in mixed-use, hospitality, or master-planned community developments preferred

Skills & Competencies

Technical Skills

• Expert knowledge of FIDIC contract conditions (Red, Yellow, Silver Books)
• Strong understanding of construction methodologies, programming, and cost management principles
• Proficient in contract administration procedures and commercial risk management
• Experience with project management and cost control software
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office suite

Personal Attributes

• Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities
• Excellent negotiation and conflict resolution skills
• Outstanding written and verbal communication skills in English (Arabic language skills advantageous)
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and meet tight deadlines
• High degree of commercial acumen and business awareness
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality
• Collaborative team player with leadership capabilities

Additional Information

• Location: Diriyah, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
• Project duration: Long-term assignment (minimum 2–3 years)
• Full-time position requiring site presence and occasional extended hours
• Some regional travel may be required