We're looking for an experienced and hands-on Construction Manager to lead the delivery of a high-complexity, high-end construction project in Dubai.

This is a senior site-based position for someone with 10+ years of construction experience and a strong technical background across complex construction activities, particularly excavation, shoring, foundations, structural works, and large-scale site operations.

You'll take ownership of the day-to-day construction delivery, working closely with the Project Manager, Head of Construction, consultants, subcontractors, and the wider international project team.

We're looking for someone who can operate confidently at both a technical and managerial level — someone who understands what is happening on site, can anticipate construction risks, coordinate multiple stakeholders, and make decisions that keep the project moving without compromising quality, safety, or programme.

Responsibilities

Lead and manage day-to-day construction activities across the project, ensuring delivery in accordance with approved drawings, specifications, programme, budget, and quality standards.
Oversee complex site operations, including excavation, shoring, dewatering, foundations, structural works, and associated temporary works.
Coordinate and supervise main contractors, subcontractors, consultants, specialist trades, and site teams.
Review construction methodologies, sequencing, shop drawings, method statements, and technical submissions.
Monitor progress against the construction programme and proactively identify delays, risks, and potential constraints.
Work closely with the Project Manager and Head of Construction to develop and implement construction strategies and recovery plans where required.
Conduct regular site inspections and ensure that works are executed in accordance with approved designs, specifications, and applicable UAE regulations.
Take ownership of construction quality, identifying defects and coordinating corrective actions with contractors and consultants.
Ensure compliance with Dubai/UAE building regulations, HSE requirements, and relevant construction standards.
Coordinate site logistics, labour, plant, materials, deliveries, access, and sequencing to maintain efficient site operations.
Monitor contractor performance and hold subcontractors accountable for programme, quality, safety, and agreed deliverables.
Review and challenge technical and logistical solutions where necessary, proposing practical alternatives to resolve site constraints.
Work closely with consultants, engineers, architects, and the design team to resolve technical issues and RFIs efficiently.
Support cost control at site level and identify potential variations, risks, and opportunities before they impact the project.
Attend progress meetings, coordination meetings, technical meetings, and contractor meetings as required.
Maintain clear reporting on construction progress, risks, quality, safety, and programme.
Act as a senior point of contact between the construction site and Utopia's wider project leadership team.
Step in to support the Project Manager or Head of Construction with key construction decisions when required.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, Architecture, or a related field.
Minimum of 10 years of professional construction experience, with significant experience in senior site or construction management positions.
Strong experience managing complex construction projects from enabling works through structural and finishing stages.
Demonstrated hands-on experience with excavation, shoring, dewatering, foundations, piling, and/or other complex substructure works.
Proven experience coordinating major contractors, subcontractors, consultants, and multidisciplinary site teams.
Experience managing projects in Dubai/UAE is strongly preferred, ideally including at least one project delivered through the full construction cycle.
Strong background in high-end hospitality, luxury residential, mixed-use, commercial, or other high-complexity construction projects.
Strong understanding of Dubai/UAE construction regulations, permitting requirements, HSE standards, and local construction practices.
Strong leadership and communication skills, with the ability to manage contractors and challenge decisions when necessary.
Proficiency in construction management and project software such as AutoCAD, MS Project, Primavera P6, Procore, Aconex, or similar platforms.
Fluent English is required for communication with Utopia's international project and management teams.
Previous experience delivering luxury hotels, resorts, ultra-luxury residential developments, or landmark commercial projects.
Experience with large-scale excavation and basement/substructure packages.
Experience working with international consultants and contractors.
Post-graduate qualification in Construction Management, Project Management, or a related discipline.
Previous experience managing projects with significant structural, architectural, and MEP coordination requirements.

Benefits

This opportunity is based on-site in Dubai, UAE, working closely with the team delivering the project.
A senior position with significant responsibility and direct exposure to Utopia's international construction leadership.
The opportunity to work on a high-complexity, high-end project in Dubai that will become a significant addition to your professional portfolio.
A truly international team of architects, engineers, project managers, and construction professionals working to a high standard of quality.
All tools and software required for the role are provided and kept up to date.
The opportunity to take ownership of major construction activities from site mobilization through delivery.