Commercial Manager - Large-Scale Construction Projects

About the role

A permanent Commercial Manager position in Zurich, Switzerland, overseeing the commercial and contractual side of large-scale construction projects such as data centres and critical infrastructure. The role covers budget management, procurement, contract administration, financial forecasting and commercial risk, ensuring projects meet their financial targets and contractual obligations.

Key responsibilities

• Validate tender and construction budgets against agreed project margins
• Monitor project costs, financial forecasts, cash flow and monthly cost reports
• Provide commercial guidance to Project Managers, Quantity Surveyors and project administrators
• Oversee procurement, subcontractor agreements and supplier contracts
• Review and negotiate contracts, tenders and commercial agreements
• Manage subcontractor and supplier variations, claims and disputes
• Prepare and manage interim payment applications and payment certificates
• Monitor contractual obligations, schedules and programme compliance
• Identify and manage commercial risks and opportunities
• Ensure proper contract administration, including contractual notices and correspondence
• Liaise with finance, procurement, clients, subcontractors, suppliers and external consultants
• Support and mentor commercial team members and ensure compliance with company procedures and approval authorities

Required profile

• Minimum 5 years of experience in Quantity Surveying or Commercial Management
• Previous experience in construction operations is essential
• Experience leading commercial work on large-scale construction or data centre projects is highly desirable
• Degree or professional qualification in Quantity Surveying preferred; an experienced Engineer with commercial responsibilities will also be considered
• Good legal awareness and ability to review and interpret construction contracts; professional certifications or chartered qualifications are an advantage

Required skills

• Strong understanding of construction contracts, commercial management and contract administration
• Cost control, budgeting, forecasting and cash flow management
• Subcontractor negotiations, variations, claims and dispute resolution
• Excellent communication, negotiation and stakeholder management skills