Contract Manager

Position DescriptionThe Contracts Manager will play a critical role in the strategic management and oversight of contracts with both internal and external agencies and vendors. Reporting directly to the Department head, the manager will be responsible for coordinating, analyzing, and ensuring the compliance and effectiveness of all contractual agreements. This role demands a high level of attention to detail, strong communication skills, and the ability to navigate complex contractual frameworks.Job Duties:Lead the preparation and review of contracts, ensuring accuracy, completeness, and compliance with organizational standards and legal requirements.Collaborate with legal counsel as needed to address any contractual issues or concerns.Coordinate the procurement process for bids and proposals, including the development of solicitation documents, evaluation criteria, and vendor selection.Evaluate bids and proposals to ensure alignment with organizational objectives and contractual requirements.Monitor contract performance and compliance, including reviewing contractor deliverables, monitoring timelines, and assessing financial aspects such as billing and invoicing.Proactively identify and address any issues or discrepancies to ensure contract adherence.Review charges assessed by contractors and vendors to verify accuracy and adherence to contractual agreements.Work closely with finance and accounting departments to track contract expenditure and ensure budgetary compliance.Prepare detailed written reports for management review, summarizing contract performance, compliance status, and any associated risks or opportunities.Maintain comprehensive documentation related to contracts, amendments, and correspondence for audit and record-keeping purposes.Serve as the primary liaison between the organization and external parties, ensuring effective communication and collaboration throughout the contract lifecycle.Consult with internal stakeholders to address contract-related issues, provide guidance on contractual matters, and facilitate resolution of disputes or conflicts.Participate in contract negotiations, terminations, and renegotiations as necessary, advocating for the organization's interests while maintaining positive relationships with vendors and partners.Facilitate contract management activities, including contract closeout procedures and post-award debriefings.Identify opportunities for process improvement and efficiency gains within the contract management process.Stay abreast of industry best practices, regulatory changes, and emerging trends in contract management to enhance departmental effectiveness.Perform other duties as assigned.Harris County is an Equal Opportunity EmployerThis position is subject to a criminal history check. Only relevant convictions will be considered and, even when considered, may not automatically disqualify the candidate.RequirementsEducation:Bachelor's Degree from an accredited college or university in Business Administration, Finance, Law, or a related field.Experience:Minimum of five years of progressive experience in contract management, procurement, or related field, with at least two years in a supervisory or leadership role.Knowledge, Skills & Abilities (KSAs):Strong understanding of contract law, negotiation principles, and contract administration practices.Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook) and contract management software.Excellent analytical skills with the ability to interpret complex contractual documents and financial data.Effective communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate across departments and influence stakeholders at all levels.Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and prioritize tasks in a fast-paced environment.Emergency Deployment & Continuity of Operations Requirement: In accordance with Harris County's Continuity of Operations Plan (COOP) Policy, this position is subject to emergency response and deployment protocols. The employee may be designated as supporting a Mission Essential Function (MEF) and must:Participate in the classification process of departmental staff based on MEF responsibilities.Be available for temporary deployment to an alternative work location, role, or telework assignment during emergency events.Confirm work assignments with their supervisor prior to reporting to any worksite during such events.Remain flexible in assuming alternative duties as directed to support County operations continuity.NOTE: Qualifying education, experience, knowledge, and skills must be documented on your job application. You may attach a resume to the application as supporting documentation but ONLY information stated on the application will be used for consideration. "See Resume" will not be accepted for qualifications.PreferencesEducation:Master's Degree in Business Administration, Contract Management, or related field.Experience:8 years of progressive experience in contract management, procurement, or related field, with at least two years in a supervisory or leadership role.Professional certification in contract management (e.g., CPCM, CFCM, CCCM) or procurement (e.g., CPSM, CPPO, CPPB).Knowledge, Skills & Abilities (KSAs) Familiarity with PeopleSoft or other Software systems like eBuilder.Knowledge of industry-specific regulations and compliance standards.General InformationGeneral Information:Position Type, and Typical Hours of Work:Full-Time | Regular | 40 hours per week.Subject to early mornings, late evenings, weekends, and holidays at times, depending upon the project or workload.Salary: Commensurate experience, based on 26 pay periods.Physical Demands and Environmental Exposure:Most assignments will be performed in an office, meeting, or operations command center environment, but some field work may be required. May be required to work extended work hours during activation of disaster recovery operations for an unspecified length of time (varies based on the extent of the event). This position requires bending, stooping, and lifting to 25 lbs., frequent walking, standing, sitting, reaching, and ascending/descending stairs. The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to perform the essential functions of this job successfully. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.FEATURED BENEFITS:Medical, vision, and dental insurance.Wellness.Professional development opportunities.Flexible spending accounts.457 deferred compensation plans.Retirement pension (TCDRS).Transportation assistance (Metro Ride Sponsor Program).Disability and life insurance.Harris County is a Qualified Employer for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF).Employment may be contingent on passing a drug screen and meeting other standards.Due to a high volume of applications positions may close prior to the advertised closing date or at the discretion of the Hiring Department.