Project Controls Manager

About Blacksand

Blacksand, part of the Alabdullatif Group, is a prominent developer specializing in residential, commercial, mixed-use, hospitality, and logistics projects. The company is dedicated to quality and innovation, focusing on building integrated communities and modern developments that adhere to top industry benchmarks.

Job Summary

We are seeking a seasoned Project Controls Manager to join our project controls team. This role is crucial in enhancing program management and controls across Blacksand's property development portfolio. Responsibilities include schedule management, supervising contractors and consultants, project reporting, and establishing standards and tools that ensure projects are delivered on schedule, within budget, and meet Blacksand's quality expectations.

Core Responsibilities

• Develop, update, and supervise project schedules for assigned developments using Primavera P6 and InEight software.
• Coordinate with consultants and contractors to set and revise baseline schedules.
• Identify schedule risks and collaborate with teams to implement mitigation plans.
• Review and validate contractors' and consultants' program submissions, monthly updates, and progress reports to ensure they comply with contract stipulations.
• Evaluate Extension of Time (EOT) requests and assess the timing impact of Requests for Change (RFCs) and Variation Orders (VOs) alongside the cost team.
• Provide program-related inputs during procurement and tender evaluations.
• Work closely with cost consultants and finance teams to align project schedules with budget constraints.
• Maintain project and portfolio risk registers, driving risk reduction efforts.
• Support change control processes by properly documenting time and cost impacts.
• Lead the use and development of the Project Management Information System (PMIS), including InEight and Power BI dashboards.
• Prepare comprehensive project and portfolio status reports and presentations for leadership.
• Develop and enhance standards, methodologies, and best practices for project controls across the portfolio.
• Coordinate with development, design, delivery, and cost teams to prioritize programs and solve execution challenges.
• Represent project controls in meetings with consultants, contractors, and external partners.
• Mentor project controls team members and contribute to improving processes, tools, and reporting.

Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, or a related discipline.
• Advanced qualifications such as an MBA or professional certifications (PMP, CPM, RICS, CIArb) are highly preferred.
• At least 15 years of experience in project controls, planning, or PMO roles within real estate development or construction sectors.
• Proven track record managing large-scale real estate development projects in Saudi Arabia or the GCC region.
• Experience working on the client or PMC side of hospitality, mixed-use, or large residential developments is advantageous.

Required Skills

• Proficiency with Primavera P6 and InEight; familiarity with similar PMIS platforms like Oracle Primavera Unifier is also applicable.
• Competency in Power BI or comparable dashboard tools.
• Strong knowledge of FIDIC contracts, delay analysis, claims, and EOT assessments.
• Excellent communication abilities and skill in stakeholder management.

Additional Requirements

• Understanding of Saudi and GCC market standards, regulations, and contractual frameworks.
• Capability to manage several projects simultaneously in a dynamic development environment.
• Fluent in English; Arabic language skills are strongly favored.