Contracts Manager, Digital Infrastructure

Ares Operations•Bellevue, WA

23h

About The Position

Ares Management Corporation is hiring its first Contracts Manager in the Digital Infrastructure vertical. The role will help build and optimize the legal function by implementing systems and processes, managing contract lifecycles and entity management, coordinating cross-functional legal projects, and negotiating standard agreements. The position also involves developing strategic plans for legal department programs, monitoring performance and risks, managing resources when applicable, and identifying opportunities to improve and automate legal operations.

Requirements

At least 5 years of experience in contract management, legal operations, or a related field.
Experience implementing and managing contract lifecycle management systems.
Strong understanding of contract terms, legal concepts, and business implications.
Demonstrated program management experience, preferably in a legal or corporate environment.
Experience managing multiple projects simultaneously with competing priorities.
Strong stakeholder management and cross-functional coordination skills.
Proven track record of improving operational efficiency through process design.
Excellent negotiation skills for standard commercial agreements.
Ability to work independently and take initiative.
Strong problem-solving skills and an analytical mindset.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Ability to translate strategic vision into executable plans.
Adaptability and comfort working in a fast-paced, multicultural environment.
Collaborative approach and ability to work effectively across departments.
Process-oriented mindset focused on continuous improvement.
Resilience under pressure and ability to manage competing priorities.

Nice To Haves

Experience in technology, infrastructure, or data center industries.
Knowledge of legal technology tools and automation solutions.
Experience leading enterprise-wide initiatives or transformation programs.
Experience working in high-growth environments.
Familiarity with corporate governance best practices.

Responsibilities

Design and implement legal department processes and workflows to improve efficiency.
Improve and manage the contract lifecycle management system.
Develop and maintain contract templates, playbooks, and approval workflows.
Manage contract lifecycles from request through execution and renewal.
Lead entity management across multiple jurisdictions.
Negotiate standard commercial agreements.
Develop and execute strategic program plans for legal department initiatives.
Manage multiple legal projects, ensuring on-time delivery and quality.
Coordinate cross-functional workstreams and align legal programs with business objectives.
Track program milestones, identify risks, and implement mitigation strategies.
Lead change management efforts for new legal processes and systems.
Identify opportunities for process improvement and automation.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to streamline legal operations.
Track key metrics and provide regular reporting on legal department performance.
Manage program budgets and resource allocation when applicable.
Support the legal team with special projects as needed.