Knowledge Exchange Contracts Manager

University of Reading; Reading; On-site; GBP 47,000 - 58,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Reading seeks an experienced Contracts Manager within the Research Contracts team to support Knowledge Exchange and External Partnerships. The role focuses on contract drafting, negotiation, review and authorisation to deliver the university's research and innovation activities.

A strong background in contract and IP law, plus demonstrable drafting experience, is essential. The position is full-time and fixed-term for 9 months, with interviews planned for October 9, 2026.

Qualifications

• Demonstrable contracts drafting and negotiation experience.
• Knowledge of contract and IP law as applied to higher education or funded research.
• Ability to identify and push through improvements to processes and practices.

Responsibilities

• Proactively manage a busy portfolio of contracts and relationships to support research funding and knowledge exchange.
• Draft, negotiate, review and authorise contracts; overseen by KE and External Partnerships teams.
• Contribute to development of processes and best practices within Research Contracts.

Skills

Contract drafting

Negotiation

IP law knowledge

Stakeholder communication

Process improvement

Education

Bachelor's degree

Job description

Job description This role is full-time, Fixed Term for 9 months Interviews will be held on 9th October 2026 - the interview will include a pre-task shared on the day before the interview 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. There may be costs associated with a visa application, including the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), which are not paid for by the University of Reading and cannot be claimed back. For further information on potential costs please visit: Healthcare Surcharge Information GOV.UK The Research Engagement and Innovation Office are currently seeking to recruit an experienced Contracts Manager to join our Research Contracts team, within the wider Research Engagement and Innovation Office, and supporting the work of the Knowledge Exchange and External Partnerships. Research Contracts support academics to enhance research funding, enable work with businesses, and facilitate knowledge exchange and impact generating activity across the University. We are looking for an individual who has a drive to make a difference and provide an excellent service to our academic colleagues, with previous experience of contracts negotiation and drafting, in a higher education, research or commercial setting. The successful applicant will also have an opportunity and be encouraged to contribute to the development of processes and best practice. In this role, you will proactively manage a busy and varied portfolio of contracts and relationships to deliver the University of Reading's research and innovation activities. You will primarily support projects with a particular knowledge exchange focus and work closely with other KE colleagues. The role involves contract drafting, negotiation, review and authorisation; KE commercialisation and process improvement. This provides an exciting opportunity for you to contribute to the success of the University. You will have: An undergraduate degree (or equivalent experience or qualifications), and a demonstrable knowledge of contract and IP law Demonstrable contracts drafting and negotiation experience Demonstrable knowledge and experience of contract and intellectual property issues as they apply to higher education and funded research The ability to identify and push through improvements to processes and working practices The ability to think clearly and critically to make robust decisions and recommendations and to carry these through effectively An ability to work under pressure and simultaneously progress multiple projects towards deadlines The ability to communicate clearly and effectively with external parties, academic colleagues and management at all levels A service and solution oriented approach For more information, please contact: Frosso Tsapanidou, Head of Research Contracts [e-mail] Anne-Marie van Dodeweerd, Director of Research Services [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.

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).

Closing date: 23:59 28th September 2026 £47,389 to £58,225 per annum. Grade 7