Contract Manager

Position Overview Deep Water Point & Associates seeks an experienced Contracts Manager to join our dynamic team. This role serves as a key strategic partner in our organization, providing expert contractual guidance and leadership across our federal market consulting practice. The ideal candidate will bring a sophisticated understanding of federal contracting, combined with the ability to manage high-volume contract administration while ensuring compliance and risk management. Key Responsibilities Strategic Contract Leadership - Serve as the primary contractual domain expert for implementation, execution, and administration of complex federal market consulting agreements - Lead contract activities for both sole source and directed Prime and subcontract customer awards - Provide strategic guidance to cross-functional teams on risk assessment and mitigation strategies - Drive continuous improvement in contract processes and procedures - Mentor and develop other contract professionals, fostering a culture of excellence Contract Development & Negotiation - Review and analyze complex solicitations, preparing comprehensive responses for proposals, bids, and contract modifications - Lead negotiation of various agreements, including: Teaming Agreements Subcontracts Master Service Agreements Consulting Agreements IT Software Agreements Commercial and Government End User Agreements - Collaborate with business teams to develop and refine Statements of Work - Structure and negotiate contract terms within delegated authority limits Compliance & Risk Management - Proactively identify and communicate potential compliance issues to upper management - Monitor and ensure adherence to corporate, contract, and legal requirements - Serve as primary advisor on customer contract requirements and government regulations - Develop and implement risk mitigation strategies - Maintain current knowledge of federal contracting regulations and industry best practices Process & Database Management - Oversee contract information management system, ensuring data accuracy and completeness - Develop and maintain efficient contract workflow processes - Coordinate complex agreements across internal stakeholders and external organizations - Implement process improvements to enhance efficiency and reduce risk - Manage contract document control and archive systems Stakeholder Management - Build and maintain strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders - Provide expert guidance to business teams on contract matters - Lead cross-functional team meetings and contract reviews - Present contract status updates to senior management - Coordinate with legal counsel on complex contractual matters Required Qualifications - Bachelor's Degree with 6-8 years of progressive experience in contract administration - Demonstrated expertise in federal government contracting - Proven track record of successful contract negotiations - Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities - Superior written and verbal communication skills - Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, especially Excel Preferred Qualifications - Master's degree in business, or related field - Professional certifications (NCMA, CPCM, CFCM) - Experience with Costpoint or Unanet - Background in federal consulting or professional services - Knowledge of GSA schedule contracts - Experience with both commercial and government contracting Critical Competencies - Strategic thinking and analytical problem-solving - Exceptional attention to detail and accuracy - Strong negotiation and influence skills - Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment - Excellence in stakeholder management - Leadership and team building capabilities - Process improvement mindset - Superior customer service orientation Technical Skills - Advanced Microsoft Office Suite proficiency - Experience with contract management systems - Knowledge of federal procurement systems - Familiarity with DCAA compliance requirements - Understanding of contract lifecycle management tools Work Environment & Culture - Collaborative, fast-paced environment - Opportunity to work with senior government and industry experts - Professional development and growth opportunities - Hybrid work arrangement available - Culture of excellence and continuous improvement Benefits Package - Competitive base salary - Comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage - 401(k) with company match - Professional development allowance - Paid time off and holidays - Life and disability insurance - Flexible spending accounts - Employee assistance program Deep Water Point & Associates is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We value diverse perspectives and experiences in supporting our federal market clients.