Senior Contracts Manager - Defence

We are looking to appoint a Senior Contracts Manager to join our Defence team in Preston, supporting the delivery of a high profile and highly regulated Defence programme of national importance. This role requires highly trusted professionals who can operate with discretion, integrity and accountability within a secure environment.

Please note:This requirement is expected to commence in early 2027. As a result, candidates may not be contacted immediately after applying; however, all applications will be carefully reviewed and considered. Due to the security requirements associated with the role, candidates must be eligible to obtain and maintain UK Security Clearance.

You'll be responsible for

• Managing the setup, administration and management of contracts throughout the project lifecycle.
• Ensuring compliance with contractual obligations, governance requirements and client processes.
• Managing NEC contracts, including change control, compensation events, contractual correspondence and record keeping.
• Providing contractual advice and guidance to project teams, stakeholders and suppliers.
• Supporting procurement, contract award and mobilisation activities.
• Managing contract performance, identifying contractual risks and implementing mitigation measures.
• Reviewing and administering contract changes, ensuring appropriate governance and commercial controls are maintained.
• Supporting the resolution of contractual issues, disputes and claims in accordance with contract provisions.
• Building effective relationships with clients, contractors, suppliers and key project stakeholders.
• Driving continuous improvement and the implementation of commercial and contractual best practices across the programme.

You'll need to have

• Degree qualified in Quantity Surveying, Commercial Management, Construction Management, Law, or a related discipline.
• Significant experience in contract administration and contract management within major construction, infrastructure, Defence or regulated environments.
• Strong knowledge and practical experience of NEC contracts and contract management principles.
• Experience supporting procurement, contract award and mobilisation activities.
• Strong understanding of commercial governance, contract compliance, risk management and change control processes.
• Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills, with experience working in integrated project environments.
• Eligibility to obtain and maintain UK Security Clearance (SC).

What's on offer

• Car allowance.
• Hybrid working.
• Medical health cover.
• Life insurance.
• Income protection insurance.
• Pension scheme.
• Discretionary annual salary reviews.
• Family friendly policies.
• 22 days annual leave + 2 Mace days + 3 days Christmas shutdown + 1 additional day leave for every 2 years of service + Bank holidays.

Our values

Safety first - Going home safe and well: We champion a safe, diverse and inclusive working environment, understanding the importance of wellbeing in every team.

Client focus - Deliver on our promise: We own the quality of deliverables, strategic outcomes and build long term relationships with our clients.

Integrity - Always do the right thing: We influence positive outcomes within our industry, while always aligning with our compliance obligations.

Create opportunity - For our people to excel: We champion a continuous improvement culture throughout all activities, inspiring our people and teams to develop.

Mace is an inclusive employer and welcomes interest from a diverse range of candidates. Even if you feel you do not fulfil all the criteria, please apply as you may still be the best candidate for this role or another role within our organisation.

We are also open to discussing part time, flexible, and hybrid working options if suitable with-in the role.

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