- Lead costs and contracts for a Singapore developer, owning entire process
- Report directly to principals with full autonomy to make independent calls,
- Suited to a senior leader with 12-15 years in Singapore residential development
Our client in Singapore is seeking a Senior Contracts Manager to join their senior leadership team. This is a high-impact role where you will take full ownership of cost management, contract strategy, and commercial governance across the project lifecycle. In this position, you will report directly to the principals and have significant autonomy to make key decisions, provide strategic recommendations, and drive value protection in a competitive and fast-evolving market.
Key responsibilities include:
- Leading the costs and contracts function, setting policies, frameworks, and best practices for budgeting, procurement, and commercial control.
- Overseeing end-to-end cost planning from feasibility studies through to final accounts, including cashflow forecasting, contingency management, and escalation provisions.
- Managing tender processes, contract negotiations, and administration for main contractors, consultants, and suppliers to secure optimal terms and mitigate risks.
- Providing independent commercial advice and recommendations to senior leadership and shareholders on project viability, value engineering, and cost optimisation.
- Monitoring market trends, material prices, labour costs, and regulatory changes to ensure projects remain financially robust and competitive.
- Building and mentoring a capable team while fostering accountability, clear targets, and a culture of proactive decision-making.
- Ensuring compliance with Singapore's building regulations, procurement standards, and contract law throughout development phases.
The ideal candidate will bring:
- At least 12-15 years of relevant experience in cost management, quantity surveying, or contracts within Singapore's residential property sector, with proven involvement in mid-to-premium developments.
- Minimum of 5 years in a senior leadership role, such as Head/Director of Costs & Contracts, Senior QS Manager, or equivalent.
- A track record of taking full ownership, exercising independent judgment, and delivering clear, actionable recommendations to principals or board-level stakeholders.
- Deep knowledge of the Singapore residential market, including pricing dynamics, government regulations (e.g., URA guidelines), tender processes, and standard contract forms (e.g., SIA, REDAS).
- Strong commercial acumen, negotiation skills, and the ability to balance cost control with project quality and timelines in an entrepreneurial setting.
- A relevant degree in Quantity Surveying, Building, Construction Management, or a related field; professional membership (e.g., MRICS, SRQS) is advantageous.
This role offers the chance to shape commercial strategy, influence high-profile residential projects, and make a tangible difference in a resilient market. If you thrive on accountability, strategic thinking, and hands-on leadership, this could be an excellent next step. If this aligns with your experience or if you know someone who would be a strong fit, please reach out with a confidential message for more details.
For more information about this role please contact Alex Beattie at [Confidential Information].
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