Contract Manager | Full Time | Permanent | Preston / Hybrid

Salary £46,142 - £51,356 | Full time, Permanent | Commercial Service | Preston / Hybrid

Drive Better Outcomes. Deliver Greater Value. Shape the Future of Contract Management in Lancashire.

Are you an experienced contract management professional ready to make a meaningful impact across one of the largest and most diverse local authorities in the country?

We are looking for an ambitious and commercially minded Contract Manager to join our growing Commercial Service. This is a fantastic opportunity to play a pivotal role in delivering the Council's commercial agenda, helping to maximise the value, performance and outcomes achieved through contracts worth millions of pounds each year.

Working at the heart of the organisation, you'll collaborate with senior leaders, commissioners, procurement professionals and suppliers to embed best practice contract management and deliver lasting benefits for Lancashire residents.

What you'll do...

This varied and influential role combines strategic contract management, commercial support and continuous improvement.

You will:

• Lead and support strategic contract management activity across a range of service areas.
• Work with service managers to improve supplier performance, contract compliance and value for money.
• Support the delivery and continuous improvement of Lancashire County Council's Contract Management Framework.
• Provide commercial advice and challenge throughout the contract lifecycle.
• Lead contract reviews, performance management and governance activity for key contracts.
• Identify opportunities for efficiencies, savings, service improvements and additional value.
• Support supplier relationship management and help develop productive, collaborative relationships with key suppliers.
• Work with procurement colleagues during commissioning and procurement activity to ensure robust contract management arrangements are built in from the outset.
• Deliver training, guidance and support to service areas to improve contract management capability across the organisation.
• Contribute to wider commercial projects and initiatives that support organisational priorities and transformation.
• Support a programme of engagement for Suppliers & Partners.

About you...

We are looking for an experienced contract management professional who understands how effective commercial services and contract management can improve services, reduce risk and deliver value.

You'll be able to demonstrate:

• Experience of managing complex contracts and supplier relationships.
• Strong commercial awareness and an ability to identify opportunities to improve outcomes and value.
• Experience of performance management, governance and contract assurance activities.
• The confidence to influence stakeholders and challenge constructively where required.
• The ability to analyse information and use evidence to support decisions and recommendations.
• Experience of working collaboratively across organisational boundaries and building positive relationships.
• A practical and solution-focused approach to problem solving.
• The ability to manage competing priorities and deliver results in a complex environment.

Why Join us...

• Great Annual Leave: We offer up to 32 days annual leave, 8 bank holidays, and 2 additional statutory days during the festive season. You can also purchase additional leave.
• Financial Benefits: Our generous Local Government Pension Scheme with employer contribution.
• Training and Development: An excellent induction and ongoing support for your career and professional development.
• Health and Wellbeing: A Wellbeing Support Programme for you and your family.
• Staff Discounts: You'll get access to dozens of discounts through Vivup, our employee benefits partner. Our scheme covers a car lease scheme, shopping, entertainment, gym memberships, holidays, and more.

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