Strategic Contracts Manager

Are you an expert in managing high-value contracts and driving operational efficiency through data? Do you want to lead the strategic oversight and governance of high-value, operational contracts, ensuring optimal performance and compliance? This is a critical leadership opportunity for an experienced professional ready to step up and guarantee contractual assurance across key operations, with a primary focus on our Repair and Maintenance (R&M) Contract. We need someone who can provide expert strategic oversight to guarantee all activities are underpinned by robust processes and adherence to agreed plans. This role is vital for ensuring we obtain optimal performance from all our external contractors. You'll be instrumental in implementing standardised governance, risk reviews, and contract alignment, specifically guaranteeing our compliance with legislation and industry standards. You will also support the contractual governance of our Developer Services, Mains Laying, and all Water Supply contracts. Located in Snodland, you'll be reporting to the Head of Network Repair and Maintenance, leading a team that includes an Operational Contract Support Manager and managing the Operational Control Hub team. The position requires deep NEC4 contract experience or knowledge. You'll be working alongside the Commercial Manager, Senior Works Delivery Manager, and Highways Manager. This is a chance to step into a pivotal role, managing essential contracts that ensure company stability. If this role aligns with your skills and experience, apply today Responsibilities Take a lead role in setting contracting strategy, writing appropriate contracts, and assisting the Procurement team in the sourcing of operational contracts. Provide contractual support and expert advice to operational Managers and the Commercial team running contract arrangements day-to-day. Manage contract and corporate risks related to non-compliance, and ensure adherence to all relevant standards and laws. Undertake internal and external audits to ensure contract compliance and adherence to governance procedures are maintained. Continually review all operational contract KPIs and performance to maximise effective delivery and contract value. Provide strategic governance and oversight to the Operational Control Hub team, reviewing operating systems and ensuring effective performance against KPIs. Ensure contract administration is correctly and rigorously undertaken on all supported contracts (R&M, Services, Mains Laying). Qualifications NEC4 Accreditation or Certification (or demonstrable knowledge of the NEC suite of contracts). Expert knowledge of the NEC suite of contracts, applying this expertise to advise delivery teams and ensure robust contract governance. Proven ability in the governance and administration of high-value, operational contracts, with a focus on mitigating legal and performance risks. Strong analytical skills with the ability to produce effective, data-driven reports to demonstrate operational efficiency improvements to senior management. Advanced skills in influencing and collaborating with internal stakeholders (e.g., Commercial, Asset Management, Regional Operations) and external partners (Contractors and Highways Authorities). Ability to manage and assure adherence to contractual terms and effectively mitigate legal and performance risk across complex operational contracts. A full, clean driving licence. Benefits Excellent Stakeholder pension scheme, up to 10% employer contribution. 5 weeks holiday plus bank holidays per annum, increasing to 6 weeks with length of service. Flexible annual leave policy to buy or sell holiday leave. Paid volunteering days. Cycle to work scheme. Health cash plan. Life assurance. Wellbeing related benefits. Application & Legal To apply for this position, please submit your CV on our career's website. It is necessary for you to have the legal right to work in the UK when you begin employment with South East Water. Additionally, as part of the employment offer, you will need to pass background, identity, and employment referencing checks. If this sounds like the opportunity you've been looking for, apply now #J-18808-Ljbffr