Lead Contracts Administrator

Great Minds•Dc, DC

2d•Remote

About The Position

Reporting to the Senior Manager, Contracts, the Lead Contracts Administrator will effectively manage, monitor, and report contracts with various parties including suppliers, customers, contractors, and vendors of goods and services. The Lead Contracts Administrator will serve as a senior resource within the contracts function, acting as a primary escalation point for complex contract issues prior to attorney involvement. This role will be responsible for preparation of contract documents, communication with contractors and vendors, maintenance of contract files, running reports, and advising business partners as to upcoming terminations, renewals, and deliverables. The position also will provide advanced guidance to team members, support process improvements, and ensure consistency in contract administration practices across the organization. As part of Great Minds’ Legal team, the Contracts Administrator will work closely with internal and external customers.

Requirements

7+ years’ experience of demonstrated experience managing a portfolio of commercial contracts (drafting, negotiation and development) with accountability for risk, compliance, and business outcomes.
Strong attention to detail, proficiency in establishing priorities and meeting deadlines, and careful attention to accuracy and confidentiality
Ability to work independently while having excellent verbal and written communication, collaboration, and interpersonal skills with a track record of successfully working cross-functionally
Ability to work in a fast-paced environment, with demonstrated ability to juggle multiple competing tasks and demands
Demonstrated ability to handle complex contract issues and provide guidance to others

Nice To Haves

Experience in education or with a commercial vendor that engages with state and local governments
Experience serving as a subject matter expert or escalation point in a contracts or legal operations environment

Responsibilities

Manage contracts end-to-end, from drafting and negotiation through execution and closeout, ensuring outcomes align with business objectives.
Maintain proactive visibility into contract milestones, renewals, and obligations across the portfolio, surfacing risk exposure and time-sensitive decisions to stakeholders before they become issues.
Address disputes, delays, or breaches by coordinating with internal teams and external partners.
Serve as the primary escalation point for complex or high-risk contract issues.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to translate business objectives into contract content that supports long-term strategic goals.
Review and verify all contract information and documentation for accuracy, recognizing that the executed contract serves as the official record.
Prepare and deliver monthly contract reporting to the Senior Manager, Contracts.
Respond to requests for Certificates of Insurance (COI).
Own the contract amendment process, partnering with project managers to assess business needs and execute changes that protect organizational interests.
Provide guidance and informal mentorship to Contracts Administrators on contract interpretation, processes, and best practices.
Identify and recommend improvements to contract management processes, templates, and systems to enhance efficiency and reduce risk.
Support the Senior Manager, Contracts in implementing new tools, workflows, and operational initiatives.