Senior Contract Management Specialist

Our client is one of Victoria's largest and fastest-growing local government organisations and is undertaking a significant transformation of its procurement and contract management function. As part of this journey, we are partnering with the organisation to appoint an experienced Senior Contract Management Specialist to drive contract management capability uplift, strengthen governance practices and lead the successful adoption of a new contract management framework and supporting systems.
The OpportunityReporting to the Head of Procurement, this senior leadership role will drive the organisation-wide adoption of Contract Management Framework and support the implementation of a new contract management system. You will operate at the intersection of governance, stakeholder engagement, change management and commercial contract expertise, helping the organisation build consistency, capability and confidence in contract management practices.
This is not a traditional contract administration role. Success will come from your ability to influence stakeholders, guide teams through change, coach contract professionals and provide practical advice on complex contractual matters.
You WillLead the rollout and adoption of the Contract Management Framework across the organisationLead, mentor and develop Contract Management Business PartnersSupport the implementation of a new contract management system and associated processesDrive stakeholder engagement, capability uplift and change adoption across diverse business unitsProvide expert advice on contract variations, extensions, novations, disputes and commercial riskPartner with leaders across local government to improve contract governance and supplier performanceSupport the ongoing evolution of contract management practices, tools and governance frameworksAct as a trusted advisor on contractual interpretation, risk allocation and commercial decision-makingWork collaboratively with project, change and procurement teams to deliver sustainable outcomes.
You Will BringSignificant experience in contract management, procurement, commercial management or supplier governanceStrong stakeholder engagement and change leadership capabilityExperience driving organisational adoption of new frameworks, systems or processesA practical understanding of contract risk, liability, indemnities, variations and performance managementThe ability to influence, coach and build trust across a broad stakeholder groupStrong communication and presentation skills, with the ability to simplify complex conceptsLeadership experience mentoring and developing contract or procurement professionalsA collaborative, customer-focused approach and a genuine desire to help stakeholders succeed.
Highly RegardedExperience within local government, utilities, infrastructure, construction or complex public sector environmentsChange management, transformation or system implementation experienceKnowledge of Australian Standard contractsFormal contract management qualifications or legal training