Preface

By Shaik Faiazuddin, LL.M (UK), MRICS, PMP, CEng, MCIArb, PE, MICCP, PMI-RMP, MCIPS, MBA
In an era where contracts govern nearly every facet of business and infrastructure, the ability to manage and administer them effectively is not just a technical skill—it is a strategic imperative. Over the course of my professional journey, spanning multiple sectors and continents, I have witnessed firsthand the transformative power of sound contract management. It is this conviction that inspired the creation of Essentials of Contracts Management and Administration Online Course.

This book is designed to serve as both a foundational guide and a practical resource for professionals at all levels—whether you're just entering the field or seeking to refine your expertise. It distills complex concepts into accessible modules, integrating legal principles, project realities, and industry best practices. From contract formation and negotiation to administration, claims, and closeout, each chapter is crafted to build competence and confidence.

The contents of this book are a reflection of my personal journey—one shaped by over three decades of hands-on experience in the field of project and contracts management. During my tenure with globally respected organizations such as Aramco, SABIC, Qatar Petroleum, Qatari Diar, and Bechtel, I had the privilege of contributing to the execution of multibillion-dollar, complex projects across diverse sectors and geographies.

Throughout these years, I encountered both challenges and breakthroughs. I observed recurring shortfalls in contract execution and administration, and through careful analysis and strategic adaptation, I developed and applied solutions that consistently led to successful outcomes. These lessons—earned through practice, not theory—form the backbone of this book.

In parallel with my professional work, I’ve had the honor of training over 5,000 professionals in subjects ranging from project management and contracts administration to cost engineering, claims, arbitration, alternative dispute resolution, and procurement management. Their questions, insights, and real-world dilemmas have enriched my perspective and helped shape the structure and content of this course.
The inspiration to write this book was born out of a deep concern for the recurring challenges I observed across the construction industry. Over the years, I’ve witnessed countless companies—large and small—struggle due to the absence of a structured, systemized approach to contract administration. These gaps often led to financial losses, operational chaos, and a gradual erosion of credibility and brand reputation in the market.

My interactions with students, professionals, and industry leaders further reinforced this reality. During my visits to various colleges and universities, I shared my vision for this book and emphasized the urgent need for practical, accessible knowledge in contracts management. The response was overwhelming, and it became clear that there was a genuine hunger for guidance rooted in real-world experience.

My aim is to bridge the gap between theory and practice, offering readers not just information, but insight. The content reflects my academic grounding in law and business, as well as my hands-on experience as a Chartered Engineer, Arbitrator, and Project Management Professional. It is enriched by global perspectives and shaped by real-world challenges.

The contents covered in this Book are The definitions of Contracts Administration and Contracts management, the fundamentals of managing a contract, real life examples, scenarios, the stages in a Contract, and finally the activities covered while managing a Contract

I extend my sincere gratitude to the mentors, colleagues, and learners who have contributed to this journey. Their questions, feedback, and shared experiences have helped shape the direction and depth of this work.

I invite you to engage with this course not just as a reader, but as a practitioner—ready to lead, negotiate, and deliver with integrity and precision.

Warm regards,
Shaik Faiazuddin