Contracts Manager

Classification: Exempt / Non-Bargaining

Position may be located remote. #LI-Remote

Consolidated Communications, Inc. (CCI) is a leading broadband and business communications provider serving businesses and communities in over 20 states. Leveraging an advanced fiber network, Consolidated Communications offers a wide range of communications solutions, including: high-speed Internet, data, phone, security, managed services, cloud services and business marketing solutions. From our first connection over 125 years ago, Consolidated is dedicated to turning technology into solutions, connecting people and enriching how everyone works and lives.

Responsible for overseeing the contract lifecycle for all external vendors. This role will also include the participation in and in some cases leading negotiations with our suppliers, assessing contractual risks and then providing business advice to internal customers.

• Manage the entire contract negotiation process of procurement related agreements (both new and renewals), from initial request and review through negotiation and execution, ensure adherence to company policies, procedures, and legal requirements during the contract negotiation.
• Review, redline, analyze, and negotiate a wide range of contracts, including consulting, service and software licensing agreements as well as event sponsorship and hotel agreements.
• Provide support for negotiating terms and conditions with suppliers to ensure favorable terms and conditions including but not limited to service level agreements, indemnification, confidentiality, and ownership of materials.
• Review general inquiries from internal stakeholders about agreements and provide analysis and guidance including aggregation of vendor agreements and types of preferred agreements for the type of service or product required
• In partnership with Finance/Accounting and procurement teams, create and optimize processes and policies to enable the mitigation of risks
• Make recommendations for contract templates to be used to stream line the contract process.
• Ensure the full execution of contracts are communicated to all relevant parties to provide contract visibility and awareness.
• Prioritize and allocate resources based on business needs and objectives
• Manage department key indicators to ensure meeting SLAs.
• Using contract management software and reports, proactively manage portfolio of contracts.

Risk Assessment and Management

• Identify and assess potential risks associated with contractual terms, ensuring that contract terms are fair, reasonable, and aligned with the company's risk appetite and escalating to leadership when needed
• Understand key clauses/terms within supplier contracts to ensure business compliance with contracts and manage business risk.
• Resolve contractual disputes and issues in a timely manner.
• Ensure compliance with all internal, legal and regulatory requirements

Value Creation

• Identify opportunities to streamline contracts and simplify processes
• Identify cost saving opportunities as part of renewals and contract negotiation.

• Bachelor's degree, with a preference for a degree in Business Administration
• 8-10 years of experience in contract negotiations, drafting and process management
• Proven track record of successful supplier negotiation and contract management.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent negotiation and communication skills.
• Proficiency in contract management tools, along with excellent contract drafting skills
• Detail-oriented with strong organizational skills.
• Strong familiarity and technical competence with contract management software and/or applicable automated systems including artificial intelligence.
• Professional certification, such as paralegal certification, Certified Commercial Contracts Manager, Certified Professional Contracts Manager or Certified Federal Contracts Manager is a plus.
• Ability to effectively prioritize and execute tasks in a high-pressure environment is crucial.

We are proud to offer a comprehensive and competitive benefits package:

• 401(k) matching
• Medical, Rx, Dental and Vision insurance
• Disability insurance
• Flexible spending account
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Tuition reimbursement
• Paid vacation and personal days
• Paid holidays
• Employee Assistance Program
• Annual bonus program to eligible employee's based upon organization performance

Pay range (commensurate with skills and experience): $74,384 - $112,752

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, marital status, familial status, genetics, disability, age, veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law.