Contracts Manager

Lexdan Select; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 600 000 - 800 000; Full time

Job summary

A reputable recruitment firm is seeking a Contracts Manager to manage and administer contracts, ensuring compliance and protecting business interests. The ideal candidate has a Bachelor's degree and 5-7 years of experience, particularly in financial services. Responsibilities include drafting and negotiating contracts, overseeing contract management systems, and improving processes. Exceptional analytical and communication skills are essential, along with a sound understanding of contract law and financial terminology.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5-7 years of experience in contract management or commercial legal support in financial services.
• Strong knowledge of contract law and regulatory frameworks.
• Experience with various contract management systems is an advantage.

Responsibilities

• Draft, review, and negotiate a wide range of contracts.
• Identify and mitigate risks in contract terms.
• Maintain a centralized contract management system.
• Monitor contract performance and escalate issues.
• Train staff on contract-related processes.

Skills

Drafting and negotiation skills

Analytical skills

Problem-solving ability

Attention to detail

Strong communication skills

Stakeholder management

Ability to handle pressure

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Law, Business Administration, Finance, or related field

Tools

Contract management systems (e.g., Ironclad, DocuSign CLM, Icertis)

Job description

The role ensures that all contracts protect the firm’s interests, comply with regulatory standards, and support strategic business objectives. The Contracts Manager will collaborate with internal stakeholders and external parties to streamline contract processes while maintaining high standards of accuracy and efficiency.

Responsibilities

Contract Management & Administration

• Draft, review, and negotiate a broad range of contracts including client agreements, supplier agreements, NDAs, service-level agreements, and partnership contracts.
• Identify and mitigate risks in contract terms, ensuring compliance with applicable laws and regulations (e.g., FCA, SEC, GDPR, or local financial regulations).
• Maintain a centralized contract management system to track contract lifecycles, renewals, and terminations.
• Track contract renewals, expirations, and performance obligations.
• Monitor contract performance, ensuring obligations are met by all parties and escalating issues as needed.
• Develop and maintain contract templates and standard terms aligned with company policies.
• Act as a point of contact for external vendors, clients, and partners during contract negotiations and execution.
• Provide guidance to business units on contract terms and obligations.

Process Improvement

• Develop and implement efficient contract management processes and workflows.
• Recommend process improvements to enhance contracting efficiency and reduce turnaround times.
• Leverage technology (e.g., contract management software) to streamline operations and improve turnaround times.
• Train staff on contract-related processes and best practices.

The Candidate

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Law, Business Administration, Finance, or a related field (LLB or equivalent preferred).
• Minimum 57 years of experience in contract management or commercial legal support, preferably within the financial services sector.
• Strong knowledge of contract law, commercial agreements, and regulatory frameworks relevant to financial services.
• Experience with contract management systems (e.g., Ironclad, DocuSign CLM, Icertis, or similar) advantages.

Skills & Competencies

• Excellent drafting and negotiation skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving ability.
• High attention to detail and accuracy.
• Strong communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines.
• Sound understanding of financial services operations and terminology.
• Integrity, discretion, and professionalism in handling sensitive information.