Objectives

The primary objective of this tender is to appoint a Contract Advisory, Contract Law, and Contract Management Specialist to provide independent expert support for SARAO’s construction and infrastructure projects. The specialist will advise on contractual strategies, review claims and variations, support dispute resolution, and ensure best practices in contract administration across projects governed by FIDIC, SAICE GCC, National Treasury GCC, and NEC4 contracts.

Scope

The scope of work includes:

• Providing expert advice on interpretation, application, and administration of relevant contract forms.
• Advising on contractual risk allocation, strategies, and practical implications of contract clauses.
• Guiding project teams on complex contractual issues, claims, notices, variations, and dispute management.
• Reviewing and assessing contractor claims related to time, cost, variations, and termination.
• Supporting preparation of contractual responses, dispute documentation, and arbitration/litigation support.
• Reviewing contract administration practices for compliance and alignment with contractual and governance requirements.
• Providing input into tender strategies, procurement documents, and contract data.
• Identifying and advising on commercial, contractual, and performance risks.
• Offering independent peer reviews, capacity building, and knowledge transfer to SARAO staff.
• Visiting SARAO offices and project sites as required, with final reports reviewed by SARAO.

Technical Requirements

The technical requirements for the service provider include:

• Proven experience in managing contracts for large-scale construction projects exceeding R50 million.
• Demonstrated knowledge of FIDIC (White, Yellow, Red books), SAICE GCC, NT GCC, and NEC4 contract forms.
• Experience in public sector procurement and contract management under South African law, including PFMA compliance.
• Ability to review and advise on contractor claims, variations, and dispute resolution processes.
• Capability to provide training, workshops, and knowledge transfer on contract administration best practices.
• Availability of qualified personnel with relevant legal, contractual, and construction law expertise.

Skills Requirements

• Extensive experience in contract law, construction law, and contract management within the infrastructure and construction sector.
• Strong analytical and assessment skills to evaluate claims, risks, and contractual obligations.
• Excellent communication skills for advising project teams and preparing reports.
• Ability to provide independent peer reviews and capacity building sessions.
• Proven track record in handling disputes, claims, and contractual negotiations.
• Knowledge of South African legal and regulatory frameworks related to construction and infrastructure projects.