Contract Manager

Role overview

This position sits at the point where contract administration, compliance, commercial and financial control, and risk management come together. The role also involves close coordination with customers, oversight of performance, governance, and reporting, and it operates within the Defence sector.

The position is based in Canberra and reports to the Senior Project Manager. Applicants must be Australian citizens.

What the role involves

As Contract Manager, you will own a newly created contract from the outset and be responsible for its administration, performance, and compliance throughout the entire lifecycle. A key part of the job is making sure the business meets its contractual commitments, safeguards commercial rights, and continually strengthens contract delivery.

There may also be occasions where you help with contract formation and lifecycle work on other contracts as needed.

Key duties

• Oversee all contractual obligations so that delivery aligns with customer expectations and there is a complete, traceable record of commitments fulfilled.
• Track internal delivery against KPIs, milestones, and other contractual requirements, and raise issues to the Project Manager when risks emerge.
• Work with Operations, Business Development, and Finance to secure and recover commercial entitlements, keeping milestone billing, approvals, and acceptance activities moving to support cashflow and financial results.
• Identify contract opportunities such as variations, extensions, and extra scope, working alongside Business Development to pursue them.
• Monitor contractual, commercial, and financial risks and opportunities across the contract lifecycle and recommend mitigation actions for the Project Manager and the broader organisation.
• Make sure contractual responsibilities are understood across the business and that any non-compliance exposure is managed early and proactively.

Candidate profile

The employer is seeking a seasoned Contract Manager who combines practical commercial judgment with strong contract administration capability.

To succeed in the role, you should bring:

• A tertiary qualification in Business, Commerce, Law, or a similar discipline.
• Hands-on experience managing contracts from the seller or supplier side, including variations, performance tracking, and change control.
• Experience protecting and recovering commercial entitlements such as milestone payments, variations, and scope changes.
• Working knowledge of the Australian Commonwealth procurement framework, including the Commonwealth Procurement Rules (CPRs).
• Familiarity with ASDEFCON procurement and contracting practices.
• Experience handling commercial and financial elements of contracts, including milestone payments, cashflow, and cost reporting.
• Strong planning and prioritisation skills with the ability to juggle competing deadlines.
• Well-developed written and verbal communication skills, plus the ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Security and checks

To work in the Defence business unit, you must currently hold, or be able to obtain and maintain, at least a Baseline security clearance. You will also need to complete background screening, including qualification verification and police checks.

Benefits

• Competitive pay package.
• Contemporary office environment.
• Training and development support.
• Monthly health insurance allowance.
• Life insurance and income protection cover.
• Employee Assistance Program for employees and their families.
• Two weeks of paid Defence Reservist leave.
• Salary packaging through novated leasing.

About the company

The company describes itself as people-focused, internationally minded, and headquartered in Denmark. With more than 1,300 employees, it builds intelligent and innovative technology solutions designed to make a meaningful difference. The culture emphasises both professional growth and personal connection, with the aim of being a place where people belong as well as work.

Application note

Applications are being reviewed continuously, as the team is looking to fill the role as soon as possible. A CV is requested for consideration.

Contact

Julie Lysbjerg Christensen, Senior Talent Acquisition Consultant.