How to progress from a quantity surveyor to commercial manager

Quantity surveyor jobs are some of the most exciting and prosperous career paths. The value of quantity surveyors is plain to see in the region. There are plenty of opportunities for career progression for a quantity surveyor in the Middle East and becoming a commercial manager is a great path to take. 

AtkinsRéalis has been at the forefront of Middle East infrastructure development for over 50 years, blending our in-depth knowledge of the region with a unique ability to draw upon global resources. At AtkinsRéalis, we support our quantity surveyors on their quest to becoming commercial managers by offering a portfolio of training and development courses designed to help make the best of their abilities and talents.

Moving from a quantity surveyor to a commercial manager can be a fantastic journey, but it requires hard work. Here, find out more about quantity surveying, moving into a career as commercial manager and how AtkinsRéalis will help you get there. 

How to become a quantity surveyor

Becoming a quantity surveyor is a great entry route into the industry. A degree in quantity surveying, construction management, or a related discipline are the most common way into a role. If you’re already working in the construction industry, you may also be able to transition into a quantity surveyor job through on-the-role training. 

At AtkinsRealis, on our mission to engineering net zero, we’re committed to developing our professionals. We provide structured training for quantity surveyors as well as mentorship opportunities. Wherever you want your career to go, from quantity surveyor to commercial manager, we’ll help you get there. 

What does a quantity surveyor do?

Quantity surveyors are involved at every stage of a project and are skilled in maths, analytical thinking, and stakeholder relations. This is key as clients rely on quantity surveyors to communicate at every stage and ensure that the delivered project is value for money.

The role of a quantity surveyor is varied but at its core involves estimating and controlling costs for large and complex construction projects, and ensuring that every aspect meets legal and quality standards. Responsibilities grow as roles progress, but starting as a graduate quantity surveyor, you may be accountable for assisting your supervisor in estimating costs, quantities, and project timelines. 

Alternatively, as a senior quantity surveyor, tasks may include value engineering, cash flow forecasts and tender services, assigning work to subcontractors and submitting regular budget reports. At any stage of a quantity surveying career, there are a variety of tasks that will engage you and ensure you’re constantly learning in order to progress.

What does a commercial manager do?

The responsibilities of a commercial manager are significantly greater than that of a quantity surveyor. Before a project even commences, commercial managers support the bidding process including the review of terms and conditions, risk assessment and negotiation. 

Once the project has begun, they oversee the financial management, which involves controlling budgets and any costs involved in construction activities. They are also required to negotiate agreements and contracts with contractors, suppliers, and clients to ensure costs are kept within budget.

Commercial managers use their extensive knowledge and professional experience to develop and operate strategies to maximise project revenues and cash flow. They agree and deliver an effective commercial management strategy with the project and client teams and assist colleagues with advice and contractual support for project issues.

Progressing from quantity surveyor to commercial manager

Making the transition from quantity surveyor to commercial manager requires extensive experience, strong leadership skills, and deep contractual knowledge. You will need to show commitment, apply innovative ideas, and ultimately gain expertise over numerous years to reach your goal.

The following skills and achievements will go a long way to helping you move from quantity surveyor to commercial manager. 

• Gaining experience working on contracts like JCT (Joint Contracts Tribunal) and NEC (New Engineering Contract) frameworks
• Enhanced management skills and leading a diverse team
• Staying informed on global industry trends, such as sustainability and Net Zero initiatives
• Building a strong track record of financial decision-making in complex projects

Why choose a quantity surveying career in the Middle East?

As one of the leading Middle East quantity surveyor employers, there are plenty of benefits of joining AtkinsRéalis. We deliver large-scale infrastructure and construction projects while providing unparalleled career development opportunities.

From working in NEOM to contributing to the Six Flags Qiddiya mega project, you can make your mark with a quantity surveyor and commercial manager role in the Middle East. Our commitment to training and upskilling quantity surveyors ensures a clear pathway for career progression. 

If you’re looking for an opportunity to shape the future of engineering, look no further than our Middle East projects. With internal mobility and the chance to work alongside a global team of experts, this is a quantity surveyor job with a difference. 

Explore quantity surveyor jobs in the Middle East

Are you looking for a rewarding and successful career in the Middle East? We’re looking to grow our teams and you may find an exciting quantity surveying opportunity with us.

If you’re ready for your next big project, find out how you can build your quantity surveying career in Saudi Arabia or browse our commercial management and quantity surveying jobs today.