A contract manager is an individual in a company responsible for the management and administration of contracts, as well as the process by which they are created and agreed. They typically collaborate with other departments to ensure contracts progress quickly, are handled efficiently, and remain compliant.
Most Commonly: The Finance Team. This is the most common way of handling contract management in small companies. Typically the finance department is responsible for collecting contracts from vendors and customers, making sure that they are filled out correctly, and that they are filed appropriately.
Chief Financial Officer (CFO) & Finance Team: Roles & Responsibilities. Your finance team plays a crucial role in contract management, as they manage all the financial aspects of your company's contracts. From budgeting to invoicing, they're focused on avoiding financial risk and dips in revenue.
Regardless of organization type, one consistency is that contract managers are the primary individuals responsible for the creation and management of all contracts those organizations use. To successfully oversee contracts from drafting all the way to execution, contract managers need to be skilled in numerous areas.
Most Commonly: The Finance Team. This is the most common way of handling contract management in small companies. Typically the finance department is responsible for collecting contracts from vendors and customers, making sure that they are filled out correctly, and that they are filed appropriately.
Exploring the key stages of the contract management lifecycle Stage 1: Contract Initiation. Stage 2: Contract Creation and Negotiation. Stage 3: Contract Approval. Stage 4: Contract Execution. Stage 5: Contract Monitoring and Management. Stage 6: Contract Renewal or Termination.
This good practice framework defines the four blocks – structure and resources, delivery, development, and strategy – comprising 11 areas (Figure 1) that organisations should consider when planning and delivering contract management.
Practical experience is crucial in understanding the nuances of contract management. Seek entry-level positions or internships in procurement, project management, or legal departments. Experience in these areas can provide a practical understanding of the contract lifecycle, from creation to closure.
All contract manager positions require candidates to have at least a bachelor's degree. There's no degree specifically for contract management, but having a degree in business, pre-law, or human resources may be a good way of preparing for this career path. ‌2. Get relevant work experience.
How to implement contract management activities Step 1: Transition activities, if any. Step 2: Review the draft contract management plan. Step 3: Review the contract's budget. Step 4: Resources to support contract management. Step 5: Finalise and implement the contract management plan.