At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage strategic public sector contracts and improve contract management systems.
- Company: Join a dynamic EMEA Commercial Legal team focused on public sector growth.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and opportunities for impactful work.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with a focus on sustainability and social value.
- Why this job: Shape public sector frameworks and drive compliance in a meaningful role.
- Qualifications: 7+ years in contract management with a focus on public sector experience.
The predicted salary is between 75000 - 100000 £ per year.
Requirements
- 7+ years of experience in contract management, commercial management, or similar, with significant focus on working with public sector contracts
- Proven track record building and improving contract management systems and processes, including compliance and audit readiness
- Strong understanding of UK public sector procurement and how policy translates into practical contractual and reporting requirements
- (Desirable) Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent experience)
- (Desirable) Familiarity with themes such as social value, sustainability, wellbeing, modern slavery, and prompt payment, and experience embedding these into frameworks
What the job involves
- You will join the EMEA Commercial Legal team supporting UK and EMEA public sector customers.
- The team partners closely with Sales, Corporate Affairs, Compliance, Security, and Customer Success to enable compliant, scalable growth across central, regional and local government, higher education, social housing, and health.
- This role will primarily be responsible for managing strategic public sector contracts and frameworks; ensuring regulatory and policy compliance; and shaping our routes to market.
- As Principal Contract Manager – Public Sector (UK & EMEA), you will be the senior contract lead for our public sector portfolio.
- You will combine deep knowledge of public sector frameworks and policy with hands-on contract management and strategic deal support.
- Design, run, and continuously improve contract management systems and processes for UK and EMEA public sector customers.
- Maintain accurate, searchable records for strategic contracts and frameworks, including risk, obligations, and renewal data and coordinate with compliance and audit teams.
- Identify, assess, and recommend participation in new frameworks and contract vehicles in UK and key EMEA markets and manage day-to-day engagement with UK public sector buying bodies (e.g. central government commercial agencies).
- Ensure full compliance with framework-level obligations, including reporting, information returns, and audits.
- Help track emerging procurement policy (e.g. social value, sustainability, modern slavery, prompt payment) and their implications and lead cross-functional work to implement new compliance and reporting processes and to evidence compliance.
- Lead end-to-end contract management of key UK public sector contracts (including the UK Government Matrix Contract for Workday).
- Support public sector growth across EMEA and put in place standardised processes and playbooks that support effective, compliant public sector sales in key EMEA markets while identifying and implementing best practices, tools, and guidance to strengthen public sector contract management across UK & EMEA.
Principal Contract Manager employer: Workday
As a Principal Contract Manager within our EMEA Commercial Legal team, you will thrive in a dynamic work culture that prioritises collaboration and innovation. We offer competitive benefits, a commitment to employee growth through continuous learning opportunities, and a unique focus on social value and sustainability in public sector contracts. Join us in a role that not only supports your professional development but also contributes to meaningful projects across the UK and EMEA.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Contract Manager
✨Dive into Local Government Events
Get yourself to local government events and public sector job fairs. These are great for meeting recruiters and understanding what different organisations, like Workday, are looking for. Plus, it shows your genuine interest in the sector!
✨Join Relevant Networks
Look for communities focused on public sector careers. Whether it’s local networking groups or online forums, connecting with professionals in the field can provide insider knowledge and opportunities that you won’t find on typical job boards.
✨Utilise Your University’s Resources
If you’re freshly graduated or still studying, make the most of your university's careers service. They often have exclusive partnerships with companies like Workday and can help you get your foot in the door for these full-time public sector roles.
✨Stay Updated with Government Initiatives
Keep your finger on the pulse regarding new government projects and policies. Understanding current initiatives can give you a leg up in interviews, showing that you are informed and genuinely interested in making a difference in the public sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Contract Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Experience:In the public sector, having experience in community engagement, policy analysis, or project management stands out. Make sure to showcase any previous roles or volunteer work that reflects your understanding of public service values and how they've shaped your career path.
Showcase Your Knowledge of the Sector:When you’re applying for a government role, it’s crucial to demonstrate your understanding of the current political landscape and public policies. Consider including articles you've written or relevant projects that underline your capability to engage with these concepts effectively.
Tailor Your CV to Reflect Core Competencies:Government positions often require a clear demonstration of competencies such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Try to structure your CV to highlight these skills, using specific examples of how you’ve applied them in past experiences, ideally with quantifiable outcomes where possible.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to tell your story and convey your passion for public service. Discuss why you want to work for Workday and how your values align with their mission. Be genuine and let your enthusiasm shine through—this can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Workday
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with Workday, dig deep into their mission and values, especially how they align with public service and community impact. Understand the key policies or initiatives they are involved in – you’ll want to show that you genuinely care about serving the community.
✨Brush Up on Regulatory Knowledge
Brush up on the regulations, laws, and compliance standards relevant to the role you’re applying for. Since this is the government and public sector, they might throw technical questions related to policy frameworks or project management best practices that you'll need to navigate day-to-day.
✨Highlight Teamwork and Collaboration
The government sector thrives on collaboration. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully worked in diverse teams or involved stakeholders in your projects. Show us how you bring people together to get a common goal achieved – that's what public service is all about!
✨Prepare Real-Life Examples
Craft a few STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) stories that demonstrate your experience in similar roles. Whether it’s a project that made a difference in the community or a challenging situation you managed, be ready to express how your skills and experiences make you a valuable asset for Workday.
