Contract Specialist

A growing organization is seeking an experienced Contracting Specialist to oversee the full lifecycle of contracts and agreements with external partners. Reporting directly to the Chief Financial Officer, this role serves as a key resource for operational leaders throughout the contracting process, from intake and review through negotiation, execution, renewal, and retention. The Contracting Specialist will partner closely with department leaders to review, redline, negotiate, and finalize agreements while ensuring alignment with organizational goals and risk management practices. Matters involving significant legal or business risk are escalated and reviewed in collaboration with outside legal counsel. This position is ideal for a self-directed professional who is comfortable managing a high volume of contracts independently, exercising sound business judgment, and balancing multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment. Compensation: $67,500 - $95,000 annually, depending on experience and qualifications. Key Responsibilities Contract Administration Serve as the primary point of contact for contract review requests, non-standard contract language, and customer-requested modifications. Partner with operational leaders throughout the contract lifecycle to facilitate contract reviews, redlining, negotiations, and execution. Draft, review, negotiate, and finalize contracts and agreements with external partners. Collaborate with internal stakeholders and outside legal counsel to resolve contractual issues and address higher-risk matters. Advise business leaders on contract language, obligations, risk exposure, and commercial considerations. Interpret existing agreements and provide recommendations regarding contract strategy and compliance. Maintain accurate contract records, amendments, renewals, and terminations within the contract management system. Ensure contractual agreements support organizational objectives while minimizing operational and financial risk. Maintain and update contract templates to ensure consistency, accuracy, and regulatory compliance. Monitor legal and industry developments that may impact contractual relationships and obligations. Process Improvement & Contract Lifecycle Management Develop and maintain policies, procedures, and best practices related to contract lifecycle management. Identify opportunities to improve contract workflows, efficiency, and stakeholder experience. Support optimization and expansion of contract management software capabilities. Create training materials and provide guidance to contract owners regarding contract processes and responsibilities. Recommend and implement process improvements that strengthen compliance, risk management, and operational effectiveness. Qualifications Required Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Contract Management, Legal Studies, or a related field; equivalent experience will be considered. Minimum of 5 years of contract administration, contract management, paralegal, legal operations, procurement contracting, or related experience. Demonstrated experience reviewing, redlining, negotiating, and managing contracts from initiation through execution. Strong understanding of business law, contract language, and contractual risk management. Ability to work independently and manage workload with minimal supervision. Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills. Strong business acumen and ability to exercise sound judgment. Ability to identify contract concerns, present recommendations, and facilitate resolution with stakeholders. Exceptional organizational and project management skills. Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment. Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing high-quality work. Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint. Ability to maintain confidentiality and appropriately handle sensitive business information. Preferred Paralegal certification. Experience with contract lifecycle management software. Experience partnering with leadership teams on contract negotiations and risk assessment. Exposure to collaboration and document management platforms. Experience supporting process improvement initiatives within a contract management environment. Competitive health, dental, and vision insurance offerings. Retirement savings plan with employer matching. Generous paid time off and paid holidays. Professional development and career growth opportunities. Comprehensive onboarding and training support. #J-18808-Ljbffr SustainableHR PEO & Recruiting