Lead Contracts Manager

Placements24; Centurion; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,700,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 in Centurion, Gauteng seeks a seasoned Lead Contracts Manager to lead contract management across the business, negotiating, drafting and managing high‑value agreements to safeguard contractual interests and drive performance.

You will develop policies, advise stakeholders, and mentor junior staff while ensuring compliance with laws and best practices. This strategic role offers autonomy in a growing tech‑focused environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Law, Business Admin, or related field.
• Master’s degree or CCCM certification is a plus.
• 8–10 years of progressive contract management experience.
• Proven track record managing high‑value contracts.
• Strong understanding of contract law principles.
• Experience with contract management software.

Responsibilities

• Oversee full contract lifecycle from drafting to closure.
• Negotiate and review various commercial contracts (service, vendor, partnership, licensing).
• Develop and implement contract management policies and best practices.
• Advise internal stakeholders on terms, risks, obligations.
• Manage relationships with external counsel and third parties.
• Ensure proper documentation and storage of contracts.
• Monitor performance and identify optimization opportunities.
• Identify and mitigate contractual risks.
• Mentor junior contracts team members (if applicable).
• Stay current with laws and best practices in Centurion, Gauteng.

Skills

Negotiation

Contract drafting

Analytical skills

Leadership

Communication

Risk mitigation

Attention to detail

Independent work

Team mentoring

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Law/Business/related

Master’s degree or CCCM

Tools

Contract management software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading technology solutions provider, is on the lookout for a seasoned and strategic Lead Contracts Manager to spearhead their contract management functions. This crucial role, situated in the vibrant hub of Centurion, Gauteng , requires a highly skilled professional with extensive experience in negotiating, drafting, and managing complex commercial agreements. The Lead Contracts Manager will play a vital part in safeguarding the company's contractual interests, optimizing contract performance, and ensuring compliance across all facets of the business. The ideal candidate will possess exceptional analytical abilities, a keen eye for detail, and a proactive approach to risk mitigation. This is an outstanding opportunity for a contract management expert to drive significant improvements and contribute to the sustained success of a prominent organization. We are seeking an individual who can lead with vision and execute with precision.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the entire lifecycle of contracts, from initial drafting and negotiation through execution, performance, and closure.
• Lead the review and negotiation of a wide variety of commercial contracts, including service agreements, vendor contracts, partnership agreements, and licensing agreements.
• Develop and implement robust contract management policies, procedures, and best practices to ensure efficiency and compliance.
• Provide expert advice to internal stakeholders on contractual terms, risks, and obligations.
• Manage relationships with external legal counsel and other third parties involved in contract matters.
• Ensure all contracts are properly documented, stored, and readily accessible.
• Monitor contract performance and identify opportunities for optimization and cost savings.
• Proactively identify and mitigate contractual risks, ensuring alignment with company policies and legal requirements.
• Train and mentor junior members of the contracts team (if applicable).
• Stay current with relevant laws, regulations, and industry best practices related to contract management in Centurion, Gauteng .

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Law, Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, or a related field.
• A Master's degree or professional certification (e.g., Certified Commercial Contracts Manager - CCCM) is a significant advantage.
• Minimum of 8-10 years of progressive experience in contract management, negotiation, and administration.
• Proven track record of managing complex, high-value commercial contracts.
• Deep understanding of contract law principles and best practices.
• Exceptional negotiation, drafting, and analytical skills.
• Proficiency in contract management software and tools.
• Strong leadership and project management capabilities.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels.
• High degree of accuracy and attention to detail.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Benefits

• Competitive contractor rates commensurate with expertise.
• Significant autonomy and responsibility in a key strategic role.
• Opportunity to shape and enhance contract management frameworks.
• Work with cutting-edge technology and innovative projects.
• Flexible working arrangements, potentially offering remote work options.
• Direct impact on the financial health and operational efficiency of a growing company.
• Collaborative and professional work environment.
• Potential for long-term engagement and future projects.