The Commercial Manager is responsible for the commercial, contractual, and financial management of MEP subcontract works on a large-scale construction project in Saudi Arabia. The role ensures contractual compliance, cost control, claims management, cash flow optimization, and risk mitigation, while protecting the subcontractor’s commercial interests in line with Saudi regulations and FIDIC-based contracts.
Key Responsibilities
1. Contract & Commercial Administration Administer the MEP subcontract in accordance with FIDIC conditions, Particular Conditions, and Saudi project requirements. Ensure compliance with Saudi contract law, local regulations, and project-specific governance. Manage contractual correspondence, notices, claims, and responses, ensuring compliance with contractual time bars. Advise the project team on commercial risk, entitlement, and contractual strategy.
2. Cost Control & Financial Management Establish and manage project budgets, cost reports, and forecasts for all MEP packages. Conduct monthly Cost Value Reconciliation (CVR) and margin analysis. Monitor labor, material, and subcontractor costs in line with Saudi market conditions. Provide early warnings of cost overruns and propose mitigation measures.
3. Payments, Valuations & Cash Flow Prepare and submit monthly interim payment applications in compliance with contract and KSA practices. Manage certification, follow-up, and recovery of payments from the Main Contractor. Review and certify sub-subcontractor and supplier payments, ensuring compliance with Saudi payment regulations. Develop and maintain cash flow forecasts to support project liquidity.
4. Variations, Claims & Final Accounts Identify, evaluate, and substantiate variations and change orders, including those arising from:Design changes Client instructions Authority requirements (SBC, Civil Defense, SEC, NWC, etc.) Prepare and submit claims for extension of time (EOT), prolongation, disruption, and loss & expense. Lead commercial negotiations with the Main Contractor / Client. Close and agree final accounts in accordance with contractual and Saudi commercial practices.
5. Risk, Compliance & Governance Maintain a live commercial risk and opportunity register. Ensure compliance with:Saudi labor laws Saudization (Nitaqat) requirements ZATCA (VAT and tax considerations related to commercial matters) Support internal and external audits and commercial reviews.
6. Procurement & Subcontract Management Support procurement of MEP sub-subcontracts and long-lead items in the Saudi market. Prepare commercial evaluations, negotiate terms, and finalize subcontract agreements. Manage subcontractor commercial performance, including claims, variations, and final accounts.
7. Stakeholder & Reporting Management Act as the primary commercial interface with the Main Contractor’s commercial team. Prepare regular commercial reports for head office and regional management. Support dispute avoidance and resolution, including mediation or adjudication where applicable.
8. Team Leadership Lead and mentor Quantity Surveyors / Commercial Engineers on site. Ensure alignment with company commercial procedures and ethical standards. Promote a strong commercial culture focused on entitlement protection and profitability.
Qualifications & Experience
Education Bachelor’s Degree in:Quantity Surveying Construction Management Mechanical / Electrical / Civil Engineering, or a related discipline
Professional Certifications (Highly Preferred in KSA) MRICS / FRICSPMP or equivalent Recognized professional membership in construction or engineering bodies
Experience10–15+ years of commercial / quantity surveying experience. Minimum 5–8 years in a Commercial Manager or Senior QS role. Proven experience working in Saudi Arabia or the GCC. Strong background as an MEP subcontractor on large-scale projects such as:Mega / Giga Projects High-rise developments Infrastructure or industrial projects Healthcare or data centers
Contractual & Technical Expertise Strong knowledge of FIDIC Red & Yellow Book contracts. Understanding of Saudi construction practices and dispute mechanisms. Strong knowledge of:MEP measurement and valuation Claims preparation and negotiation Final accounts and commercial closeout Proficient in:Excel and cost control systems ERP / project management software (SAP, Oracle, Candy, CCS, etc.)
Skills & Competencies Excellent commercial judgment and negotiation skills Strong analytical and financial management capabilities Ability to operate effectively in a multicultural, high-pressure site environment Strong leadership and communication skills Ability to interface professionally with Clients, Consultants, and Authorities
Language & Local Requirements English – fluent (mandatory) Arabic – working knowledge preferred Ability to work legally in Saudi Arabia (valid Iqama or transferable sponsorship)
Personal Attributes Culturally aware and adaptable Proactive and commercially astute Results-oriented with strong ethical standards Confident in managing complex commercial negotiations