Contracts & Claims Manager

Contracts & Claims ManagerContracts & Claims Manager – Capital Projects Location: Bend, OR Client: Lonza Department: Global Capital Sourcing Employment Type: Contract Experience: 10+ years Position Summary We are seeking an experienced Contracts & Claims Manager to provide commercial and contractual leadership for major greenfield and brownfield capital projects valued at $5 million or more. This role manages contracts throughout procurement, execution, commissioning, and closeout. The manager protects contractual rights, reduces commercial risk, manages claims and disputes, and supports on-time, on-budget project delivery. The position works closely with Engineering, Project Management, Procurement, Project Controls, Legal, Finance, and external contractors. Key Responsibilities Contract Management Develop contracting strategies and support project risk mitigation plans. Review tender documents, contract terms, and commercial risks. Support negotiations of major contracts and subcontracts, including final review and document preparation. Manage contract execution, obligations, notices, changes, extensions, and closeout. Partner with Project Controls to monitor contractor costs, progress payments, cash flow, guarantees, and back-charges. Identify contractual deviations, schedule impacts, and potential cost exposure. Manage warranties and performance guarantees. Maintain accurate contract records and report status, risks, and variations to project and procurement leadership. Claims & Dispute Management Identify potential outgoing claims and develop supporting strategies, notices, and documentation. Evaluate contractor claims and prepare defense strategies and responses. Negotiate claims, variations, and dispute settlements. Coordinate with Legal on potential litigation, arbitration, and alternative dispute resolution. Maintain complete and organized claim documentation in the company repository. Supplier & Stakeholder Management Manage escalated commercial issues with contractors and suppliers. Monitor supplier performance, contractual compliance, and accountability. Support supplier scorecards, performance reviews, and commercial audits. Coordinate with internal and external stakeholders to resolve issues and align commercial decisions with project objectives. Follow applicable procurement standards, site safety procedures, and quality requirements. Required Qualifications Bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification in Business, Purchasing, Engineering, Law, Quantity Surveying, Cost Consulting, or a related discipline. Minimum of 10 years of relevant experience in construction contracts, commercial management, project cost management, claims, variations, and dispute negotiation. Experience working with major contractors or consultants on large capital projects. Senior-level experience on a major project or in a Commercial Manager or Claims Manager role. Demonstrated success developing and implementing contracting or sourcing strategies with measurable business results. Strong understanding of construction methods, sequencing, and project execution. Excellent negotiation, analytical, financial, and problem-solving skills. Ability to manage complex commercial issues and work effectively across multiple functions. Strong written and verbal English communication skills. Preferred Qualifications Master’s degree, such as an MSc or MBA. Experience working with EPC, EPCM, or EPCMV contractors. Experience in pharmaceutical, biotechnology, food, or another regulated industry. Experience with international commercial contracts and global supplier relationships. Professional qualifications such as AACE, ACOSTE, MRICS, MCIOB, or MCIArb. Familiarity with e-procurement systems and supplier performance tools.