Offshore Wind
Contract Manager - Senior
As part of establishing a new UK branch for a large, well-established international wind turbine manufacturer, the Contract Manager will provide critical commercial and contractual support throughout the lifecycle of offshore wind projects. Reporting to the Senior Contract Manager, this role involves advising Project Managers on contractual matters, leading the commercial/contractual aspects of PSA (Project Supply Agreement), EWA (Early Works Agreement), and TSA (Turbine Supply Agreement) negotiations, and ensuring contracts comply with UK/EU regulations and corporate guidelines.
The Contract Manager will primarily work with FIDIC Yellow Book (and adapted variants) and may also encounter LOGIC or other contract forms. They will oversee engagement with external legal counsel, seeking specialist opinions only when necessary, while managing budgets and costs effectively.
Key Responsibilities
Serve as the primary advisor to Project Managers on day-to-day contractual and commercial issues, ensuring alignment with project objectives.
Interpret contract terms, obligations, and deliverables, guiding project teams on risk mitigation, claims management, and variation orders.
Work closely with the Senior Contract Manager to maintain consistent application of corporate contracting principles across all projects.
Negotiation & Administration
Lead the commercial and contractual aspects of PSA, EWA, and TSA negotiations, ensuring favorable terms and risk allocation for the company.
Draft, review, and manage amendments, variations, and other contractual documentation throughout project execution.
Ensure compliance with UK/EU regulations, corporate standards, and relevant industry forms (FIDIC, LOGIC, etc.).
FIDIC Expertise & Adaptation
Apply in-depth knowledge of FIDIC Yellow Book to new and existing contracts, adapting standard clauses to project-specific requirements.
Monitor and implement any revisions or updates to FIDIC-based templates in coordination with the Senior Contract Manager.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to incorporate technical, financial, and legal insights into FIDIC contracts
Risk Management & Dispute Resolution
Identify contractual risks and propose mitigation strategies in collaboration with Project Managers, Finance, and other departments.
Lead efforts to address claims or disputes at the project level, escalating complex issues to the Senior Contract Manager as needed.
Manage external counsel engagement for specialist legal opinions or exceptional cases, ensuring cost-effectiveness and timely advice.
Stakeholder & Cross-Cultural Collaboration
Foster strong working relationships with clients, suppliers, and subcontractors, facilitating open communication and alignment on contractual obligations.
Coordinate with the parent company’s legal and commercial teams in China to adapt global contract frameworks to the UK context.
Support cultural and language bridges, promoting mutual understanding and collaboration among international stakeholders.
Budget & Legal Counsel Oversight
Oversee the selection, engagement, and budget management of external legal counsel, approving invoices and tracking costs.
Ensure legal services are utilized strategically, seeking specialist input primarily for complex or highly specialized matters.
Maintain transparent records of external counsel engagements for auditing and cost-control purposes.
Continuous Improvement & Reporting
Proactively recommend improvements to contract management processes, including the use of digital tools and standard templates.
Prepare regular updates on contract status, risks, and opportunities for Project Managers and senior stakeholders.
Contribute to lessons-learned sessions and knowledge-sharing activities to elevate the organization’s contracting capabilities.
Qualifications and Experience:
Education:
Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in Law, Business, Quantity Surveying, or a related field.
A professional qualification (e.g., RICS, IACCM) or specialized contract management training is beneficial.
Experience:
3–5+ years of experience in contract management, with a solid track record involving FIDIC contracts (preferably Yellow Book).
Experience in the renewable energy or infrastructure sector is highly desirable.
Demonstrated ability to negotiate and administer high-value project agreements, such as PSAs, EWAs, or TSAs.
Technical Skills:
Strong familiarity with contract forms (FIDIC, LOGIC) and understanding of UK/EU regulatory requirements.
Proficiency in contract lifecycle management software and MS Office applications.
Capability to interpret technical, financial, and legal data to advise on contractual decisions.
Soft Skills:
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, able to build trust with diverse stakeholders.
Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and problem-solving abilities.
Willingness to learn from different cultures and business practices, fostering an inclusive work environment.
Working Conditions
Primarily office-based in the UK (Edinburgh or London) with frequent travel to manufacturing sites, and offshore locations for audits and inspections.
Flexible working arrangements can be discussed for the right candidates.
Involves working in a dynamic, fast-paced environment with opportunities for professional growth.
