Job Description

Job Summary:

We are seeking a highly motivated and results-driven Project Manager with a strong background in business development to spearhead our contracting business. This dual-role position is critical for a startup, requiring an individual with extensive experience in successfully delivering diverse projects - particularly in interior fit-out, finishing works, and building maintenance - while simultaneously identifying, securing, and nurturing new business opportunities in the dynamic UAE market. The ideal candidate will possess a profound understanding of local regulations, a proven track record of project execution, and an entrepreneurial spirit to drive growth.

Key Responsibilities:

A. Project Management (Approx. 60% of Role Focus):

1.

Project Planning & Strategy:

Develop comprehensive project plans, including scope, objectives, detailed schedules, budgets, resource allocation, and robust risk management strategies. Define clear project deliverables, milestones, and required resources for each stage, focusing on efficiency for a startup. Review and interpret architectural drawings, specifications, and Bills of Quantities (BOQs) to ensure accurate project planning and execution. Advise on optimal construction methods, materials, and cost-effective solutions for fit-out and finishing works, leveraging market knowledge.
2.

Project Execution & Management:

Lead and manage the entire project lifecycle from initiation to close-out. Oversee all aspects of fit-out, interior works, finishing, MEP, and associated building and maintenance activities. Coordinate and manage project teams (including engineers, site supervisors, subcontractors, and laborers), ensuring clear communication, efficient workflow, and adherence to company standards. Monitor project progress diligently, identify potential issues or deviations, and implement proactive solutions to mitigate risks and prevent delays. Ensure strict adherence to project timelines, budget constraints, and the highest quality standards. Manage procurement processes for materials and services, ensuring cost-effectiveness, timely delivery, and quality assurance from suppliers.
3.

Quality Control & Compliance:

Prepare compelling and competitive proposals, tenders, and presentations that clearly articulate the company's value proposition. Lead negotiations with clients, ensuring favorable contractual terms and conditions that balance risk and profitability. Collaborate with the estimating team to develop accurate and competitive bids.
4.

Financial & Contractual Management:

Manage project budgets, diligently track expenses, and implement rigorous cost control measures. Prepare and submit accurate progress reports, payment applications, variation orders, and final accounts. Monitor project cash flow and ensure the efficient utilization of financial resources. Negotiate effectively with suppliers and subcontractors to secure favorable terms and pricing.
5.

Post-Completion & Maintenance:

Oversee comprehensive project handover, including the compilation of all necessary documentation, management of snagging lists, and adherence to defect liability period terms. Manage building maintenance contracts and execute maintenance plans as required.

B. Business Development (Approx. 40% of Role Focus):

1.

Market Research & Strategy:

Conduct thorough market research to identify new business opportunities, emerging trends, and potential clients within the UAE's fit-out, interior works, finishing, and maintenance sectors. Develop and implement strategic business development plans aligned with the company's growth objectives.
2.

Client Acquisition & Relationship Building:

Proactively identify and approach potential clients (e.g., developers, property owners, consultants, architects, facility managers) to generate leads and secure new projects. Build and maintain strong, long-lasting relationships with key stakeholders, clients, and industry partners. Represent the company at industry events, conferences, and networking functions to enhance brand visibility and generate leads.
3.

Proposal Development & Negotiation:

Prepare compelling and competitive proposals, tenders, and presentations that clearly articulate the company's value proposition. Lead negotiations with clients, ensuring favorable contractual terms and conditions that balance risk and profitability. Collaborate with the estimating team to develop accurate and competitive bids.
4.

Sales Targets & Reporting:

Set and achieve ambitious sales targets for new project acquisition. Provide regular, detailed reports on business development activities, pipeline status, and market intelligence to the CEO/management.

Qualifications & Experience:

Education:

Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Architecture, Construction Management, or a related field. A Master's degree or PMP certification is a significant advantage.

Experience:

Minimum of 8-10 years of progressive experience in Project Management within the construction, fit-out, interior works, finishing, and maintenance sector.

Mandatory:

Demonstrable hands-on experience in managing complex interior fit-out, finishing works, and building renovation/maintenance projects in the UAE.

Crucial:

Proven track record of successfully bringing in new business, identifying leads, developing proposals, and securing contracts within the UAE contracting market. This is essential for a startup environment. Previous experience working for a contracting firm in a similar dual project management/business development capacity is highly desirable.

Knowledge:

In-depth knowledge of the UAE construction market, local regulations, building codes, and authority approval processes (DM, DCD, DEWA, etc.). Strong understanding of various trades involved in fit-out, including civil, architectural, MEP, carpentry, tiling, painting, false ceiling, and glass & aluminum works. Familiarity with project management methodologies and tools. Excellent understanding of contractual terms, tendering processes, and commercial aspects of contracting.

Skills & Competencies:

Exceptional leadership, team management, and mentoring skills. Strong entrepreneurial drive and a proactive approach to business generation. Outstanding negotiation, presentation, and client-facing communication skills. Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities, with a keen eye for detail. Proficiency in project management software (e.g., MS Project, Primavera P6) and MS Office Suite. Ability to read and interpret complex drawings, specifications, and contracts. High level of commercial acumen and financial management skills. Results-oriented, adaptable, and able to thrive under pressure in a fast-paced startup environment. Valid UAE Driving License is essential.
Job Type: Full-time