Contract Manager

Reports to: Group Chief Commercial Officer (Group CCO)

Location: Sevenoaks, UK

Department: Commercial

Role Overview

The Contract Manager is responsible for the management, review, negotiation, and execution of all contractual elements within the company on a global basis. This role deputises for the Group Chief Commercial Officer in all contract-related matters and is empowered to challenge any and all contract clauses, both internally and externally, especially those identified as 'amber' or 'red-line' in the company's bespoke Contract Checklist. The Contracts Manager will play a key role in risk mitigation, cost control, profit maximization, and ensuring legal compliance across all contracts.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the end-to-end contract lifecycle: review, drafting, evaluation, negotiation, and execution of client, supplier, and internal contracts, including purchase orders, memorandums of understanding, charter parties/booking notes, and other contractually related documents.
• Proactively identify, assess, and mitigate contractual risks, ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.
• Engage with relevant business units to address contract risks and ensure alignment with company objectives.
• Maintain comprehensive contractual records and oversee the Contract Lifecycle Management (CLM) process.
• Develop, enhance, and implement contracting procedures and policies to drive efficiency and compliance.
• Review and negotiate customer terms and conditions for all logistics products and services, ensuring risk mitigation and commercial advantage.
• Provide contractual input to bid submissions and support the finalisation of contracts.
• Liaise with external law firms and insurance partners to obtain up-to-date legal advice and mitigate risk.
• Create, maintain, and enhance a clause library for both existing and new contracts. This will increasingly utilise AI tools to aid in contract management, the candidate must possess the ability and willingness to learn and ultimately master the use of such tools.
• Meet with customers and partners to discuss legal and business matters as required.
• Ensure all internal contract documents are accurate, current, and well maintained.
• Deliver training and guidance on contract management best practices to internal stakeholders.
• Assist in insurance claims procedures by identifying contractual responsibilities and helping to resolve claims quickly, correctly, and efficiently.

Qualifications & Experience

• Proven experience as a Contract Manager, Contract Administrator, or in a similar role.
• Strong knowledge of legal requirements and best practices in logistics contracts; experience with international contracts is a plus.
• Excellent drafting, negotiation, and analytical skills, with keen attention to detail and the ability to spot errors and risks.
• Superior organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects and shifting deadlines.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, DocuSign, SharePoint, and contract management software.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills, with the ability to work effectively at all levels of the organization and with external partners.
• Ideally, a qualified solicitor, paralegal, or experienced contracts specialist/advisor with a comprehensive understanding of logistics and common law.
• Commitment to ethical conduct, continuous professional development, and supporting a diverse and inclusive workplace.

Why Join TGP?

TGP is a global leader in project logistics, known for its commitment to excellence and innovation. The Contracts Manager plays a critical role in shaping the future of TGP's operations, driving transformation, and delivering value to clients worldwide.

Working Arrangements

This position is located in Sevenoaks, UK. A minimum level of in-office attendance is expected, and candidates will work within a team environment with deadlines. Hybrid working options will be considered; however, some office presence remains necessary.

Benefits

Competitive annual salary and leave allowance.

Pension scheme with matching Company contributions up to 5% of basic salary.

Group Life Assurance of up to 3x basic annual salary.

Discretionary bonus scheme.