About the position
Department: Legal and Commercial
Reporting to: Head of Legal and Contracts Management
Location: Sandton
Contract Type: Independent Contractor
About the Role
We're looking for a seasoned Contracts Manager to lead the contracts management function and provide strategic oversight of commercial and contractual matters across large-scale engineering and construction projects. This role involves high-level negotiations, supplier/subcontractor engagement, contract drafting, and commercial risk management. You'll work closely with engineers, project managers, and supply chain teams to ensure contractual compliance and successful project execution.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead commercial and contractual strategy across suppliers and sub-contractors.
- Negotiate and draft complex agreements, including bespoke contracts, NDAs, and credit applications.
- Manage contract lifecycle, including amendments, change orders, and claims.
- Drive supplier cost control and mitigate commercial risks.
- Resolve high-level disputes and manage claims efficiently.
- Oversee tender adjudications and commercial evaluations.
- Ensure contract compliance with key deliverables (e.g., bonds, programmes, quality documents).
- Provide guidance on confidentiality, IP protection, and performance guarantees.
- Mentor junior contracts staff and support the broader contracts management team.
Qualifications & Experience
- A tertiary legal, engineering, or quantity surveying qualification (LLB, QS, BSc Engineering, or similar).
- Strong knowledge of construction contract frameworks (FIDIC, NEC, JBCC, GCC).
- 10-15 years' experience in contracts/commercial management in EPC/EPCM or similar environments.
- Experience in dispute resolution and supplier negotiations.
- Proven leadership in managing complex project portfolios.
Skills & Competencies
- Strong grasp of mercantile and contract law principles.
- Excellent drafting and negotiation skills.
- Sound financial and commercial acumen.
- High attention to detail and the ability to deliver under pressure.
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
- Ability to operate independently and lead cross-functional teams.
Desired Skills:
