The Contracts Manager will be responsible for managing and administering contracts with customers and major subcontractors, including equipment suppliers, fabricators, and vessel charters. This role will oversee the contractual lifecycle, ensuring that obligations are met, risks are mitigated, and potential claims are proactively managed. The Contracts Manager will also be responsible for drafting letters, correspondence, and claim documentation while leading negotiations to resolve disputes and secure favorable contract terms.
Key Responsibilities:
Contract Administration:
- Manage the end-to-end lifecycle of contracts with major subcontractors, such as equipment suppliers, fabricators, vessel charters, and clients.
- Ensure compliance with all contractual obligations and deliverables for both the company and subcontractors.
- Interpret and advise on contract terms and conditions, providing guidance to project teams on contractual issues.
Correspondence and Communication:
- Draft and manage all formal contractual communications, including letters and notices to subcontractors, clients, and other stakeholders.
- Maintain accurate and up-to-date correspondence records, ensuring all communications are clear, concise, and legally sound.
Claims Management:
- Identify, prepare, and manage claims related to contractual disputes, delays, variations, and scope changes.
- Analyze contract terms to identify areas of potential claims and mitigate risks through proactive measures.
- Coordinate with project teams, legal advisors, and external experts to develop claims strategies and documentation.
Negotiations:
- Lead negotiations with subcontractors, vessel owners, and clients to resolve claims, disputes, and contract changes in a timely and cost-effective manner.
- Ensure that all negotiated agreements are documented and aligned with company objectives and contractual obligations.
Risk Management:
- Monitor contractual risks and ensure that all issues are escalated and managed in line with company policy.
- Provide advice on risk mitigation strategies and ensure that contractual terms are structured to minimize exposure to financial and operational risks.
Reporting and Documentation:
- Prepare and present reports on contract performance, risks, claims, and potential liabilities to senior management.
- Maintain comprehensive records of all contractual activities, correspondence, and claim management efforts.
Requirements:
- Bachelor's degree in law, business, engineering, or related fields. A Master's degree in Contracts Management or a related discipline is preferred.
- Minimum of 7-10 years of experience in contract management, preferably within the offshore wind, marine, oil & gas, or construction sectors.
- Proven experience in managing complex contracts with major subcontractors, vessel charters, and equipment suppliers.
- Strong understanding of claims management, negotiations, and contractual risk management in large-scale engineering or construction projects.
- Excellent knowledge of contract law, particularly in construction, marine, and offshore industries.
- Strong negotiation skills with a proven track record of successful dispute resolution.
- Excellent communication and drafting skills for formal letters, notices, and contractual correspondence.
- Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment with multiple stakeholders.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with attention to detail.
