Contract Management Lead

Contract Management Lead Our client is seeking a Contract Management Lead on an interim basis until the end of June 2026. In this role you'll lead and provide strategic direction for a Corporate Contract Management function, contributing to the overall effectiveness of a large, complex commercial directorate. The role is responsible for delivering significant commercial benefits through the proactive management of a substantial contract portfolio, mitigating supply chain risk, driving value for money, and embedding a culture of continuous improvement and professional development. As a Contract Management Lead, you will need to have/be: Ability to develop and communicate a clear contract management strategy aligned to organisational objectives Experience improving delivery models to enhance service quality and cost efficiency Ability to manage multiple contract workstreams and priorities in a fast-paced environment Strong stakeholder engagement skills, building effective relationships at all levels Clear communicator with strong report writing, presentation, analysis and negotiation skills Ability to adapt communication style to influence and support change Proven track record of driving continuous improvement and value for money Strong collaborator across internal teams and the wider supply chain Professional membership (e.g. CIPS, WorldCC or equivalent) desirable Knowledge of public sector or utilities contract management and relevant regulations Experience managing diverse contract portfolios to improve performance and outcomes Experience leading and developing teams and managing supplier performance Understanding of public sector governance and management of public funds Experience assessing contract variations, risk and whole-life cost impacts Experience developing and implementing contract management processes and best practiceDetails: Rate: £825.00 - £840.00 per day (inside IR35) Working Hours: Full time Monday - Friday Location: Birmingham/Hybrid (3 days per week in the office) Duration: Until end of June 2026Role of Contract Management Lead: Lead and develop a contract management team to deliver effective management across a large corporate portfolio Drive value for money through strong supplier and performance management Lead service and capability improvements within the contract management function Ensure contract governance, approvals and documentation are delivered on time and right first time Support the professional development and performance of the team Embed a culture of continuous improvement, innovation, compliance and risk management Manage delivery of the function within agreed budgets Act as a subject matter expert, sharing best practice across the organisation Build strong relationships with senior leaders and key internal and external stakeholders Support business planning, governance and approval processes, including business cases Ensure effective identification, management and escalation of commercial and supply chain risks Maintain accurate, compliant and accessible contract management records Contribute to the development of the wider procurement and commercial function