Contracts Manager

Guildhall is looking for a multinational Class 1 main contractor scaling its infrastructure and utilities delivery across Kuwait and the wider GCC. As Contracts Manager, you will take full contract administration ownership of a large wastewater treatment plant project, from variations and Extension of Time claims through to final account, reporting to the Director of Commercial, Contracts & Procurement. The mandate follows a fresh wave of contract awards in Kuwait, and the business is building out project-based commercial leadership to match. It is a rare seat for a contracts professional who wants full command of one large project's commercial position, rather than a shared portfolio.

The role

• Own full contract administration for a large wastewater treatment plant project.
• Lead variations, change orders, and compensation event administration end-to-end.
• Prepare and negotiate Extension of Time, prolongation, and disruption claims.
• Review and certify subcontractor payment applications and final accounts.
• Administer the main contract and all subcontract agreements throughout delivery.
• Report to the Director of Commercial, Contracts & Procurement and Senior PM.

What you'll bring

• Educational Qualification: Bachelor's Degree in Civil Engineering, LLM is preferred
• Minimum 12–15 years of experience in contract administration, commercial management, claims, and contract negotiation on large EPC, infrastructure, or utilities projects.
• Proven experience in wastewater treatment plants, utilities and large infrastructure projects preferred.
• Experience working with both main contractor and client-side environments is an advantage.
• Professional Certifications in RICS Membership (MRICS), MCIArb or other relevant professional certifications are an advantage
• Certified FIDIC Contract Manager
• Strong understanding of civil, structural, mechanical, and process works in WWTP or similar projects.
• Strong knowledge of FIDIC Contract Conditions (1999/2017 Editions).
• Excellent contract drafting and negotiation skills.
• Strong analytical and claims preparation skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and commercial/contract management software.
• Fluent in English (written and spoken); Arabic language skills are an advantage.

What's on offer

• Full ownership of commercial and contractual delivery on a major project.
• A project-based mandate on live, large-scale infrastructure works in Kuwait.
• Direct reporting line into senior commercial and project leadership.
• Scope to shape contract administration procedures from the ground up.

Why apply through Guildhall

• Boutique executive search firm in Dubai, established 2010.
• 8x independent industry awards since 2020.
• 4.9-star Google rating from 250+ reviews.
• Direct access to the retained consultant running this search.

Hiring a Contracts Manager in Kuwait

A Contracts Manager on a large EPC or infrastructure project in Kuwait typically reports to a Director of Commercial, Contracts & Procurement and owns contract administration for the full project lifecycle. The role covers main contract and subcontract administration, variations, Extension of Time and disruption claims, and dispute avoidance under FIDIC Conditions of Contract. Demand for this profile tends to track new contract awards, as main contractors staff up commercial teams project by project. Wastewater, utilities, and civil infrastructure experience is valued given the scale of works currently active in the market.

Common questions

What does a Contracts Manager do in Kuwait?

A Contracts Manager administers the main contract and subcontract agreements for a construction or infrastructure project, from award through completion. This includes managing variations, Extension of Time and disruption claims, contractual correspondence, and subcontractor payment certification. The role protects the contractor's commercial position while supporting project delivery.

What experience do I need to apply?

Employers typically look for 12–15 years of contract administration experience on large EPC, infrastructure, or utilities projects with a Class 1 main contractor. Strong knowledge of FIDIC Conditions of Contract, claims preparation, and contract negotiation is expected. A civil engineering degree, and experience on sizable projects in the UAE, are commonly required.

How do I apply?

Apply directly on this page. A Guildhall consultant reviews every application confidentially and will contact suitable candidates directly.