Deputy Manager Contract Management

We are seeking an experienced Contract Management professional to oversee the drafting, review, and administration of various contracts including purchase agreements, SLAs, NDAs, MoUs, and framework agreements. The role involves ensuring contracts are legally compliant, commercially sound, and aligned with organizational policies and applicable regulations. The successful candidate will manage the entire contract lifecycle, support procurement activities, handle claims and disputes, and coordinate with internal and external stakeholders to maintain contract integrity and performance.

Key Responsibilities

- Draft, review, and finalize contracts ensuring alignment with organizational policies, risk appetite, and regulatory frameworks such as PPRA.
- Prepare contract summaries, risk registers, and obligation trackers for senior management review.
- Manage end-to-end contract lifecycle including milestone tracking, deliverables, change orders, and variation management.
- Monitor contract performance against KPIs, SLAs, and payment schedules, addressing any deviations promptly.
- Maintain a centralized, auditable contract repository with version-controlled documentation.
- Coordinate timely contract renewals, extensions, and terminations as per contractual provisions.
- Assist in preparing procurement documents such as tender documents (RFX) and procurement contracts.
- Provide contract-specific input during the procurement lifecycle when required.
- Identify, assess, and manage contractual risks throughout the contract lifecycle.
- Handle contractor/vendor claims, back charges, penalties, and dispute resolution in line with contract terms and organizational procedures.
- Liaise with the Legal team on escalated cases involving arbitration, DAB, or litigation.
- Act as the primary contact for contract-related queries from internal departments and external vendors.
- Prepare periodic reports on contract status, risks, vendor performance, and KPIs for senior management.
- Support internal and external audits by maintaining complete, accurate, and accessible contract files.
- Ensure compliance with applicable laws, organizational SOPs, and national regulations in all contracting activities.
- Support the development and periodic review of contract management policies, templates, and SOPs.
- Provide guidance and capacity building to junior procurement staff on contract management best practices.

Required Qualifications

- University degree (16 years education) in Business Management, Procurement, Supply Chain, Contract Management, or a related field. A degree in law or a master’s degree is preferred.
- 6 to 7 years of progressive experience in contract management, with at least 3 years preferably in a public sector or state-owned enterprise environment.
- Proven experience in managing high-value tendering and contract management.
- Working knowledge of the PPRA Framework (Federal or Provincial), Contract Act 1872, and general principles of administrative law applicable to SOEs.
- Hands-on experience managing contracts across multiple categories including civil works, IT/technology, professional services, goods/supplies, and consultancy services.
- Demonstrated ability to independently handle contract negotiations with vendors, consultants, and contractors.
- Strong skills in contract risk identification and development of mitigation strategies.
- Excellent drafting skills for commercial and procurement contracts, LOIs, MoUs, NDAs, SLAs, and procurement correspondence.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), with the ability to prepare contract trackers, pivot reports, and dashboards.
- Familiarity with FIDIC contract conditions (Red/Yellow/Silver Book) and knowledge of contract close-out procedures, final account settlement, and retention release processes.

Preferred Qualifications and Benefits

- Certification in Contract Management is a plus.
- Competitive salary package.
- Fuel card and health benefits.
- Opportunities for professional development.
- Inclusive work culture and additional employee benefits.

This role offers a dynamic environment for a contract management professional to contribute significantly to organizational success while advancing their career in a supportive and growth-oriented setting.