The Contracts Manager plays a critical role in managing the contractual relationships for construction projects from inception through completion. This position ensures that all contracts are executed in compliance with applicable laws and regulations, optimizes contractual performance, and mitigates risks to safeguard the organization's interests. The Contracts Manager collaborates with project teams, clients, and subcontractors to achieve successful project outcomes.
Key Responsibilities:
1. Contract Development and Negotiation
- Drafting Contracts: Develop clear and comprehensive contract documents tailored to the specific needs of projects, including scopes of work, timelines, and deliverables.
- Negotiation: Engage in negotiations with clients, subcontractors, and suppliers to establish favourable terms and conditions. Use strong negotiation skills to address contentious issues and reach agreements that align with company goals.
- Legal Compliance: Work closely with legal advisors to ensure all contracts comply with local, state, and federal laws, as well as industry standards and regulations.
- Should have in depth knowledge of different types of contracts like EPC, Item rate, Cost plus etc.
- Should have a solid understanding of FIDIC contract forms.
2. Contract Administration
- Record Keeping: Maintain organized and accessible records of all contracts, including original documents, amendments, correspondence, and relevant project documentation.
- Monitoring Performance: Regularly assess contract performance against agreed-upon metrics and timelines. Ensure all parties fulfill their contractual obligations and responsibilities.
- Change Orders: Manage and process contract change orders, ensuring proper documentation and justification for all changes. Communicate the implications of changes to stakeholders.
3. Risk Management
- Risk Identification: Proactively identify potential risks related to contracts, such as financial exposure, compliance issues, and project delays.
- Mitigation Strategies: Develop and implement strategies to minimize risks, including contingency planning and risk assessment processes.
- Auditing: Conduct regular audits of contract compliance and performance metrics to ensure adherence to terms and conditions.
4. Stakeholder Communication
- Point of Contact: Serve as the main point of contact for all contract-related inquiries, facilitating clear communication between clients, subcontractors, and internal teams.
- Reporting: Provide regular updates to senior management and stakeholders on contract status, performance metrics, and any emerging issues or risks.
- Collaboration: Foster strong working relationships with all stakeholders to promote transparency and collaboration throughout the project lifecycle.
5. Dispute Resolution
- Issue Resolution: Address and resolve contractual disputes efficiently, utilizing negotiation and conflict resolution techniques to reach amicable solutions.
- Dispute Management: Develop strategies for dispute resolution, including mediation and arbitration processes, and collaborate with legal counsel when necessary.
- Documentation: Maintain detailed records of disputes, resolutions, and lessons learned to inform future contract management practices.
6. Training and Development
- Team Training: Provide training and support to project teams on contract management best practices, compliance requirements, and risk management strategies.
Industry Knowledge: Stay current on industry trends, regulatory changes, and advancements in contract management tools and methodologies to enhance organizational practices.
Education
- Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Business Administration, Law, or a related field.
- Professional certifications in contract management (e.g., Certified Commercial Contracts Manager (CCCM), Certified Professional Contracts Manager (CPCM)) are preferred.
Experience
- Minimum 15-20 years of experience in contracts management within the construction industry, with a proven track record of handling complex contracts.
- Experience with Healthcare construction contracts is advantageous.
- Candidates worked in contracting firms to be considered.
Skills required
- Negotiation Skills: Strong negotiation and conflict resolution abilities.
- Legal Acumen: In-depth knowledge of contract law, construction regulations, and risk management principles.
- Technical Proficiency: Proficiency in contract management software, project management tools, and Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint).
- Analytical Skills: Excellent analytical and critical thinking skills to assess contract performance and identify areas for improvement.
Interpersonal Skills: Strong communication and interpersonal skills to effectively collaborate with diverse stakeholders.
