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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage vendor agreements and lead contract negotiations with a dynamic team.
- Company: Join the UMass President's Office, a leader in education and procurement services.
- Benefits: Enjoy a hybrid work schedule, competitive salary, and comprehensive benefits package.
- Why this job: Be part of a collaborative culture that values innovation and professional growth.
- Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree and 5-7 years in procurement; management experience preferred.
- Other info: Opportunity to travel across UMass campuses and engage with diverse teams.
The predicted salary is between 66000 - 88000 £ per year.
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Job Summary: Reporting to the Director, Strategic Sourcing, the Contracts Manager is responsible for reviewing and processing vendor and supplier agreements within the Unified Procurement Services Team (UPST). The contract activity may vary and require the development of specialized contract vehicles and techniques to accomplish business goals and objectives. Generally, involves independent judgment and analysis of significant issue identification and resolution.
Essential Functions:
- Supervises the activity of entry- to mid-level contract professionals in the review and preparation of routine contract documents in accordance with corporate policy.
- Reviews complex solicitations and prepares a specialized and/or non-routine response for proposals, bids, and contract modifications.
- Trains and develops subordinate contract professionals to assume more complex contract activity.
- Analyzes significant and/or unique contract requirements, special provisions, terms, and conditions to ensure compliance with appropriate laws, regulations, and corporate policies and business unit procedure and communicates results to subordinates.
- Develops negotiation strategy and leads negotiation team on complex contractual issues.
- Analyzes new law, regulation and contract trends for potential impact on business unit goals and objectives.
- Provides authoritative guidance to internal business teams and contract subordinates on corporate goals and objectives relating to contract activity.
- Operates as the focal point for all communications with General Counsel, Budget/Finance, and Controller for resolution of contract issues and disputes.
- Oversees in identification, development, and implementation of new contract policy and processes.
- Develops a general understanding of the business case and an appreciation of financial/analytical issues.
- Able to develop and maintain strong relationships with campus, departmental, internal, and external parties, effectively representing the interests of the UPST and the University.
Other Functions:
- Perform other responsibilities as required.
Minimum Qualifications (Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, Education, Experience):
- Bachelor’s degree or equivalent work experience.
- 5 – 7 years of professional experience directly related to procurement and contract administration.
- 2 - 5 years of successful management experience.
- Excellent written and oral communication and listening skills.
Preferred Qualifications (Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, Education, Experience):
- Knowledge of Procurement practices and procedures.
- Ability to supervise and train less-experienced contract professionals and to identify and develop contract skills in assigned role.
- Ability to draft moderate to complex, non-routine contractual instruments.
- Working to excellent knowledge of corporate policies and procedures, coupled with the ability to identify required improvement to established policies and to communicate implementation procedures to others.
- Working to expert knowledge of contracting concepts, Uniform Commercial Code (UCC), applicable public contract acquisition law and regulations, and applicable international contract law.
- Strong to excellent analytical and communication skills.
- Good presentation, leadership and management skills.
- Use of independent judgment and creativity applied to the resolution of contract issues.
- Excellent internal and external negotiation skills.
- Emerging ability to excel in an upper-level management environment.
Working Conditions:
- Typical office environment. Must be able to travel occasionally to all UMass campuses and the Boston central office.
Salary commensurate with experience up to $110,000. The University of Massachusetts President’s Office welcomes all qualified applicants and complies with all state and federal anti-discrimination laws.
Contracts Manager employer: University of Massachusetts
Contact Detail:
University of Massachusetts Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Contracts Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific procurement practices and procedures relevant to UMass. Understanding their unique processes will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees of UMass, especially those in procurement or contract management roles. They can provide valuable insights into the company culture and expectations, which can be a game-changer during your application process.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience with complex contract negotiations and how you've successfully managed teams in the past. Highlighting these skills will show that you're ready for the responsibilities of a Contracts Manager.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on recent changes in contract law and procurement regulations. Being knowledgeable about current trends will not only impress your interviewers but also position you as a proactive candidate who is ready to tackle challenges head-on.
We think you need these skills to ace Contracts Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure to thoroughly read the job description for the Contracts Manager position. Understand the key responsibilities and qualifications required, as this will help you tailor your application.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to highlight relevant experience in procurement and contract administration. Emphasise your management experience and any specific skills that align with the job requirements, such as negotiation skills and knowledge of procurement practices.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a compelling cover letter that addresses why you are a good fit for the Contracts Manager role. Use specific examples from your past experience to demonstrate your ability to handle complex contracts and lead a team effectively.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting your application, carefully proofread all documents for spelling and grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is crucial for a role that involves reviewing contracts.
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Massachusetts
✨Know Your Contracts Inside Out
As a Contracts Manager, you'll be dealing with complex agreements. Make sure you understand the key elements of contract law and procurement practices. Brush up on the Uniform Commercial Code (UCC) and any relevant regulations to demonstrate your expertise during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Since the role involves supervising and training contract professionals, be prepared to discuss your management experience. Share specific examples of how you've developed team members or led negotiations, highlighting your ability to foster a collaborative environment.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills in real-world situations. Think of scenarios where you've had to resolve contract disputes or navigate complex negotiations. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses effectively.
✨Demonstrate Strong Communication Skills
Excellent communication is crucial for this role. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely. Be ready to explain complex contractual terms in simple language, as you'll need to communicate effectively with various stakeholders, including legal teams and internal departments.
