Contract Manager (Operations)

We re now seeking a highly capable Contract Manager (Operations) to play a pivotal role in strengthening how we manage, govern and optimise our operational contracts. This is a high-impact role offering real autonomy, visibility and influence across a diverse housing portfolio.

Reporting to the Head of Commercial Operations, you ll lead the development and ongoing management of a robust contract management framework across student, keyworker, market rent, co-operative and short-life accommodation. You ll ensure contractual arrangements are effectively governed, performance-driven and aligned with our strategic objectives and risk appetite helping to mitigate contractual, financial, legal and reputational risk.

You ll act as a trusted subject-matter expert, working closely with internal teams and external partners to embed clarity, accountability and compliance. The role has a strong focus on assurance and insight: monitoring performance, leading audits and reviews, managing risk and breaches, and providing clear, evidence-based reporting to senior leaders, committees and the Board. You ll also help shape KPIs, SLAs and performance frameworks to ensure strong delivery and value for money.

This role will suit someone comfortable operating in complex environments, leading through influence and supporting executive-level decision-making while consistently demonstrating our HEART values of being Honest, Efficient, Accountable, Respectful and Trusted.

Hybrid working is available, with a base at Fleet House, Clerkenwell, London.

What you ll be doing

Developing, implementing and maintaining a comprehensive contract management framework covering leases, management agreements, SLAs and related contracts

Establishing and operating effective governance and assurance structures for contractual performance, compliance and risk

Acting as the organisational subject-matter expert on contractual obligations, providing clear guidance and support to colleagues

Conducting audits and reviews to ensure compliance with legislation, regulation and internal policy

Monitoring provider performance against KPIs, service standards and statutory requirements

Proactively identifying contractual and operational risks and leading corrective action plans

Managing key relationships with partners, providers, local authorities and internal stakeholders

Investigating, documenting and resolving contractual breaches and poor performance, escalating where required

Leading on contract variations, change control and change-in-law activities, ensuring impacts are clearly understood and formally recorded

Producing high-quality reports and insight for senior management, committees and the Board