Contracts Manager

We work with a diverse range of clients and partners in the UK and internationally, including Government Departments, NHS, Local Authorities, philanthropic foundations, charities, commercial consultancies, services providers, as well as international development agencies, such as FCDO, The World Bank, USAID and others.

As our business has grown so has the need to ensure our contracts reflect the relationships we want to set up, so we can generate the social impact we seek alongside managing the risks we take on. We are seeking to appoint a Contracts Manager to lead our day-to-day work around contracting to help us find the right balance.

The post holder will work closely with one of our directors who was previously a senior lawyer and who can support the post holder on complex issues that arise.

This is a part time position, offered at around 3 days per week (to be discussed and agreed with the candidate). We are open to a variety of flexible working arrangements subject to candidate preference and an ability to meet business need., Contract Management:

Reviewing, assessing, and drafting a wide range of commercial contracts, including service agreements, consulting agreements, grant agreements and data protection arrangements.

Ensuring we have a standard set of template agreements for use in our most common contracts, such as sub-contracting arrangements or engagement letters.

Supporting project teams in the negotiation of a range of agreements.

Provide advice and support to colleagues around contracting and legal structuring.

Identifying and advising on risks, minimising these through drafting where possible.

Escalating complex issues or areas where significant residual risk remains to ensure appropriate scrutiny and sign off.

Liaison with external stakeholders as appropriate (e.g., pro bono legal support, external specialist legal advice (occasional)).

Developing relationships with pro bono lawyers and a sustainable strategy for how to most effectively use them.

Supporting the on due diligence and client KYC where required, working closely with compliance colleagues.

Data Processing and Sharing Agreements:

Develop, review, and update data processing and data sharing agreements in line with applicable data protection laws (e.g., GDPR).

Work with others to ensure the organisation’s data handling practices are aligned with contractual obligations.

Work with internal stakeholders to assess the need for new data processing agreements and ensure consistency across the organisation.

Staff Support and Training:

Act as the first point of contact for internal queries related to contracts and information governance.

Provide expert guidance and support to staff on all matters related to contracts, data protection, and information governance.

Organise and deliver training sessions on information governance, data privacy, and legal compliance matters for staff.

Legal Compliance:

Monitor and ensure compliance with relevant laws, regulations, and internal policies regarding contracts and data governance.

Identify potential risks related to contracts, data handling, and information governance, and work proactively to mitigate those risks.

Collaborate with legal, IT, and compliance teams to ensure a holistic approach to governance and risk management.

Reporting and Documentation:

Prepare reports on contract management and information governance matters for senior management.

Maintain comprehensive records of contract and governance-related activities, ensuring all relevant documentation is filed and accessible.

It is important you have a mix of the skills and experiences below, and most importantly, will be excited about the opportunity to learn and support. We are looking for an experienced individual who is able to play a crucial role in the success of our business.

You will have:

An appropriate legal qualification in England & Wales or equivalent common law jurisdiction, together with relevant post qualification experience.

Experience of advising on commercial contracts, including transaction structuring

An eye for detail and strong contract drafting skills.

Good technical legal skills, specifically: Good knowledge of data protection required with advanced knowledge being desirable. General knowledge of intellectual property required with specific knowledge around IT & software being desirable. Experience of public sector contracting or charity law an advantage

A basic understanding of the tax implications (particularly VAT) of the different structures and an ability to apply that to what is right for the contracting situation.

A positive ‘can do’ attitude to find solutions to contracting challenges.

Strong understanding of risk management principles and governance best practices.

Proven ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and effectively communicate complex legal and governance topics to non-legal staff.

Ability to meet tight deadlines and to thrive in a fast-paced environment.

Ability to work both autonomously and excellent communication skills to work as part of a team as and when required.

Ability to use initiative and a willingness to embrace innovation and continuous improvement, including harnessing new technology to deliver better services, faster.

Willingness to work with less experience project staff to upskill them around contracting.

Shared values and a passion for our work as a social mission-driven organisation