Commercial Director

Job Description

Commercial Director MEA

Department: Commercial / Leadership Team MEA

This role will support teams in client management, when required.

Key responsibilities:

• Lead the development and execution of commercial strategies that align with the firm's business goals and UAE market dynamics.
• Set pricing strategies, monitor project profitability, and lead initiatives to optimize gross margins alongside your Regional Director & Design Principal.
• Collaborate with the executive team on long-term planning, pipeline forecasting, and studio expansion opportunities.
• Lead all client and consultant contract negotiations, ensuring alignment with UAE commercial practices and legal frameworks.
• Review and manage project terms, scope creep, fee variations, and dispute resolution processes.
• Ensure projects are compliant with UAE labor laws, VAT regulations, and insurance requirements.
• Act as a senior liaison with clients, developers, and consultants for all commercial matters.
• Support the design and business development teams in proposal submissions, RFPs, and fee structuring.
• Build strong commercial relationships within the regional design and construction ecosystem.
• Oversee financial planning, project cash flows, billing cycles, and profitability tracking.
• Manage Work-in-Progress (WIP) reporting and monthly financial reviews in collaboration with finance.
• Lead commercial audits and ensure timely invoicing, collections, and forecasting along side the leadership team.
• Mentor and support project leads and staff in contract administration, budgeting, and negotiation.
• Promote commercial awareness across the design and delivery teams to improve decision-making and accountability.

Requirements:

• Minimum 8 - 10 years experience in architecture, design, or construction sector - preferably with UAE experience.
• Strong understanding of project lifecycle, consultancy agreements, and procurement strategies in the design industry.
• Proven track record of managing multi-million dirham projects across hospitality, residential and commercial sectors.
• Exceptional negotiation, analytical, and communication skills.
• In-depth understanding of UAE contract law, FIDIC-based agreements, and regional procurement practices.
• Deep appreciation of design excellence and client-centric approach.
• Ability to work at both strategic and operational levels.
• Excellent interpersonal and leadership skills, with the ability to operate effectively in a multicultural environment.
• Experience working with international clients, developers, or hotel operators.