Sr. Contracts Manager

Nextpower•Fremont, CA

About The Position

Nextpower innovates and delivers a leading solar power technology platform with integrated tracker, electrical solutions, and yield management and control systems for utility-scale and distributed generation projects. Nextpower offers innovative solutions that accelerate solar power plant construction, increase energy output, and enhance long-term reliability. Our culture is rooted in sustainability, innovation, and collaborative problem solving. We are looking to hire a Senior Contracts Manager who will independently lead complex contract negotiation, administration, and lifecycle management activities supporting the delivery of contractual obligations for projects across the US. This role serves as a senior individual contributor and trusted advisor to cross-functional stakeholders, applying in-depth commercial and contractual expertise to evaluate complex issues, mitigate risk, and develop practical solutions aligned with Nextpower business objectives. We are looking for someone who demonstrates: Passionate drive to innovate and create Integrity to the core Enthusiastic customer focus Consistent interactive teamwork Desire for continuous improvement and top performance

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Finance, Accounting, Economics, Legal Studies, Contract Management, Supply Chain Management, Engineering, Construction Management or equivalent relevant professional experience.
8+ years of experience reviewing, drafting, negotiating, and administering complex commercial contracts, with demonstrated ability to identify risk and develop practical solutions.
Demonstrated ability to work independently on complex issues, exercise sound judgment, select and adapt methods and evaluation criteria, and drive assignments to completion with limited oversight.
Strong cross-functional collaboration and influencing skills, including the ability to advise stakeholders outside the contracts function and communicate complex matters to varied audiences.
Excellent written, verbal, negotiation, and stakeholder-management skills, with the ability to persuade, advise, and present recommendations related to broader business objectives.
Strong proficiency in Microsoft Office products and experience working with contract, CRM, ERP, or related enterprise systems.

Nice To Haves

Experience in energy, infrastructure, construction, or industrial projects and familiarity with the interrelationships among commercial, legal, finance, sales, and project-delivery disciplines.
Experience with CRM/ERP systems and contract lifecycle management (CLM) tools; experience developing or improving contract policies, procedures, templates, or scalable contracting practices is valued.

Responsibilities

Independently lead contract management activities for complex projects and commercial transactions across the USA, determining appropriate methods and procedures for new or non-routine assignments.
Lead the review, negotiation, and execution of complex commercial agreements, including Supply Agreements, Service Agreements, Amendments, and other project-related contracts.
Interpret and apply contract policies, processes, and guidelines; exercise judgment in adapting established practices to complex circumstances while maintaining secure and accurate contract documentation in the contract database.
Apply in-depth knowledge of Nextpower’s commercial and contractual risk profile to evaluate variable factors, develop risk-mitigation strategies, and recommend creative, effective solutions to complex business issues.
Own the contract lifecycle process for assigned matters, including preparation of required documentation, coordination of business and legal approvals, negotiation strategy, and execution through appropriate signatures.
Identify and lead improvements to contract formation and management processes, including development or enhancement of procedures, templates, policies, and best practices that improve speed, quality, consistency, and compliance.
Advise clients and internal stakeholders on complex contractual matters, industry standards, commercial terms, and risk considerations, adapting communication and negotiation approach to the audience and business context.
Partner closely with Sales, Legal, Finance, Project Management, and other cross-functional teams to align contractual positions with broader business and project objectives.
Serve as a senior advisor to Project Managers and other stakeholders on complex contractual issues, including interpretation of obligations, change management, claims, disputes, and risk mitigation.
Provide management with clear reporting and strategic insights on contract status, material risks, negotiation positions, and recommended actions.
Lead resolution of complex contract conflicts and disputes by evaluating contractual, commercial, and operational considerations and recommending appropriate paths to resolution.
Serve as a key liaison and negotiator with internal and external parties throughout contract development, negotiation, execution, and administration; build effective networks with key contacts across functions and areas of expertise.