Graduate Contract Manager

Overview

As a Graduate Contracts Manager, you will play a critical role in reviewing, understanding, and communicating contract terms to ensure compliance with contractual obligations. Your responsibilities will include negotiating contract terms, managing contract risk, and supporting the delivery of defence-related projects. You will also assist the business with future contract acquisition through participation in bids.

Main Responsibilities/Key Tasks

• Contract Administration: Assist in drafting, reviewing, and managing contracts, including government contracts, subcontracts, non-disclosure agreements, and security obligations. Ensure compliance with defence sector regulations, such as Export Controls, DEFSTAN, DEFCON, FAR, and DFARS. Monitor and track contract performance to ensure all parties meet contractual obligations. Maintain accurate records of contract documentation and correspondence.
• Risk Management: Identify and manage contractual risks, escalating issues where necessary to senior managers and proposing mitigation strategies. Support the resolution of contract-related issues and disputes as they arise.
• Stakeholder Management: Liaise with internal teams, including legal, finance, project management, and procurement, to ensure effective contract execution. Build and maintain strong working relationships with customers, suppliers, and subcontractors.
• Negotiations: Support negotiations for contract terms and conditions, pricing, and payment structures.
• Compliance and Auditing: Ensure compliance with company policies, defence sector regulations, and security requirements.
• Reporting and Analysis: Assist in preparing reports on contract status, risks, and opportunities for management.

Person Specification

Education/Qualifications:

• Essential: Recent graduate with a degree in Business, Law, Finance, or a related field.

Skills and Knowledge:

• Essential: Detail-oriented with strong organisational skills.
• Essential: Analytical mindset with the ability to assess risks and provide solutions.
• Essential: Eligible for security clearance (SC) is essential.

Experience:

• Essential: Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and contract management software.

Personal Attributes:

• Essential: Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
• Essential: Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.
• Desirable: Interest in the defence sector and understanding of relevant regulations.