Contracts Associate

University of Reading; Reading; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Part time

Job summary

A prominent educational institution is seeking a part-time Contracts Associate to support their Research Contracts and Projects team. This role involves contract drafting, negotiation, and management for various research projects. Candidates should demonstrate contract law knowledge, effective communication skills, and the ability to prioritize under pressure. The position offers a fixed-term contract from March 2026 to March 2027. External and internal applications are welcomed, promoting diversity and inclusive workforce practices.

Qualifications

• Demonstrable contract drafting experience in higher education or research.
• Ability to manage multiple projects under pressure.
• Strong communication skills to explain contract details.

Responsibilities

• Prepare, negotiate, and review contracts.
• Support lead Contract Managers in managing diverse research contracts.
• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives in contract management.

Skills

Contract drafting experience

Ability to work under pressure

Effective communication skills

Knowledge of contract law

Teamwork

Job description

Closing date 23:59 18th January 2026

Part time (28 hours per week) Fixed Term Contract (1 year)

Due to the complexity of the Skilled Worker Visa route and eligibility criteria, applicants requiring sponsorship are recommended to check their eligibility on the Home Office website. We cannot provide advice to candidates at the application stage and will only discuss visa routes with candidates who are invited to interview.

We are looking to recruit a Contracts Associate to join our Research Contracts and Projects team, within the wider Research Engagement and Innovation Office (REIO). We aim to empower research, engagement and innovation by providing efficient high‑quality contract management and project solutions, supporting University policies, global strategy and charitable aims, by taking responsibility for the negotiation and management of a portfolio of research and research‑related contracts.

Contract Associates contribute to the success of the University’s research and innovation portfolio by contract preparation, negotiation, and review. You will work alongside lead Contract Managers in managing a growing portfolio of diverse research income and knowledge exchange relationships, concentrating on Confidentiality, Technical Services, Material Transfers and Amendment agreements, with opportunities to support more complex research and innovation projects as well, at an exciting time as we look to implement new systems and services as part of our aim to continuously improve our offering.

This is a fixed‑term role available from 1st March 2026 until 1st March 2027.

Key Qualifications and Experience

• Demonstrable contract drafting experience, preferably in a higher education, public sector or commercial research environment.
• An ability to work under pressure, both individually and as part of a team, to prioritise and simultaneously progress multiple projects towards deadlines.
• The ability to communicate clearly and effectively in order to explain contract contents, to obtain relevant background information and to agree actions with colleagues.
• A demonstrable knowledge of contract law.
• A desire to succeed and make a positive contribution to the work of the department.

Interviews will be held in the week commencing 26th January. The interview will include a short written assessment.

Contact

Rob Glenn, Senior Contracts Manager, [e-mail]

We welcome applications from both external and internal candidates. As part of the University’s ongoing commitment to professional development, this role can be considered on a seconded basis for existing staff members. Internal candidates should discuss this with their line manager prior to applying. Applications for job-share, part‑time and flexible working arrangements are welcomed and will be considered in line with business needs.

The University is committed to having a diverse and inclusive workforce, supports the gender equality Athena SWAN Charter and the Race Equality Charter, and champions LGBT+ equality. We are a Disability Confident Employer (Level 2).