Contract Manager, Africa and Middle East

Xylem Inc.; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 800,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Job summary

A global water technology company is seeking a Contract Manager for its operations in Africa and the Middle East. The role involves providing strategic advice on commercial contracts, ensuring compliance with regulations, and supporting contract lifecycle management. Candidates should have a law degree, at least 5 years of experience, and strong negotiation skills. The position is based in Johannesburg, South Africa, and requires fluency in English.

Qualifications

• Completed National Senior Certificate.
• At least 5 years of experience, including in-house roles.
• Extensive commercial experience in contract review processes.

Responsibilities

• Provide advice on public bids and supply agreements.
• Support contract lifecycle management.
• Partner with clients to improve legal processes.

Skills

Strategic leadership

Negotiation skills

Compliance knowledge

Team collaboration

Fluency in English

Education

Bachelor’s degree in law

Tools

MS Office

Job description

Job title : Contract Manager, Africa and Middle East

Job Location : Gauteng, Johannesburg
Deadline : September 14, 2025

Role Description

• As the Contract Manager supporting Xylem’s business in Africa (80%) and Middle East (20%), this role will provide timely advice on commercial contracts and public bid opportunities across the region.
• The role involves strategic leadership in compliance reviews and risk assessments.
• Develops and implements strategies to mitigate risks and ensure compliance with laws and regulations.
• Advises management on compliance matters and keeps abreast of legal changes.
• Based in Johannesburg, South Africa.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Provide advice on public bids, supply agreements, framework agreements with key accounts, digital offerings (SaaS/NaaS), licensing, channel partner agreements, real estate transactions, and other operational contracts.
• Support contract lifecycle management, including creating templates, SOPs, and overseeing their execution.
• Assist with joint ventures, mergers, and acquisitions in the region.
• Train staff on contract review, negotiation, and compliance programs.
• Partner with clients to improve legal processes, collaborating with global legal teams.
• Build trust and support within the business, bringing innovative ideas.
• Collaborate across departments to meet business objectives.
• Handle responsibilities independently with sound judgment.
• Ensure high-quality work and pursue continuous improvement.

Job Requirements

• Completed National Senior Certificate.
• Bachelor’s degree in law.
• At least 5 years of experience, including in-house roles.
• Extensive commercial experience, including contract review processes and training.
• Experience with international companies and compliance programs.
• Knowledge of public procurement and technology transactions (IP licensing, SaaS/NaaS).
• Organized, detail-oriented, and able to meet deadlines.
• Strong negotiation and advisory skills.
• Experience working with multi-functional teams.
• Proficient in MS Office.
• Fluent in English; French is a plus.
• Willing to travel as required.

Skills & Competencies

• Ability to manage diverse caseloads in a dynamic environment.
• High integrity and strong work ethics.
• Strategic, hands-on team player.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Trustworthy, straightforward, and proactive.
• High emotional intelligence.
• Work well under pressure.
• Pragmatic and solutions-focused.
• Growth mindset.