Contract Manager

Location: Buellton

Overview

Under the direction of the Executive Director of Policy and Controls, and guidance from the Legal Counsel, the Contract Manager is responsible for reviewing, analyzing, and managing contract language from a legal perspective to ensure compliance with legal standards and Chumash Enterprises policies. This role focuses on contract oversight, negotiation, and administration while working collaboratively with internal departments and external parties to minimize Enterprise's legal and financial risks.

Responsibilities

* Leads review, analysis, and negotiates contract terms and conditions to ensure alignment with legal standards and company policies objectives; drives contract modifications and improvement.

* Reviews and redlines initial contract drafts using approved language approved by the Legal department to support business operators through the contract lifecycle.

* Works closely with the Legal department while maintaining autonomy to approve contracts within established thresholds; consults with the Legal Counsel or designated delegate for high-value, complex, or non-standard agreements requiring additional legal review.

* Oversees centralized oversight of all organizational contract governance, including repository management, renewal tracking, and compliance with internal policies and regulatory requirements.

* Serves as primary liaison between departments during contract negotiations in collaboration with the Contract Administrator; facilitates clear communication among all stakeholders to ensure their interests are properly represented and protected.

* Conducts thorough due diligence reviews of potential contracting parties including research, risk assessment, and documentation of findings to support informed decision-making.

* Establishes and oversees monitoring frameworks for contract performance and compliance throughout the contract lifecycle; identifies potential issues, breaches, or areas of concern and takes appropriate corrective action.

* Develops and maintains contract management procedures, workflows, and best practices; continuously evaluates processes for enhancement opportunities and effectiveness.

* Leads Enterprise-wide training programs contract management standards and compliance; mentors staff across departments to ensure consistent understanding of contractual obligations and procedures.

* Prepares and presents executive-level reports on contract risk exposure, compliance status, and performance metrics.

* Stays current with relevant laws, regulations, and industry best practices affecting contract management through continuing education and professional

* Upholds a work environment that promotes teamwork, partnership, recognition, mutual respect, collaboration, while role modeling the company values, behaviors, and culture of One.

Team.

Chumash.

* Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

* Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration/Legal Studies or related field, and/or Paralegal Certification.

* Five years experience in contract management, legal support, or related compliance operations, including oversight responsibilities.

* Experience in contract negotiation and legal document preparation highly desirable.

* Paralegal certification or contract management certification preferred.

* Proficiency in computers, including Microsoft Office Suite, contract management software, database applications, e-mail, and Internet.

* Must apply for, receive, and maintain a Gaming License from the Tribal Gaming

* Agency.

* Native American hiring preference applies.

* Legal Analysis and Research:
Ability to interpret contract language, legal terminology, and regulatory requirements; research legal precedents and applicable laws; analyze risk factors and make informed recommendations.

* Attention to Detail:
Demonstrates meticulous attention to contract terms, conditions, and legal requirements; identifies potential issues, inconsistencies, or areas of concern that could impact Enterprise.

* Negotiation

Skills:

Effectively negotiates contract terms and conditions while balancing organizational interests with business relationship maintenance; resolves disputes and conflicts professionally.

* Communication and Interpersonal

Skills:

Builds and maintains positive working relationships with internal departments, external vendors, and legal counsel; facilitates effective communication during contract processes.

* Organizational and Time Management:
Manages multiple contracts simultaneously while meeting deadlines; prioritizes tasks effectively and maintains organized documentation systems.

* Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking:
Identifies complex contractual issues and develops practical solutions; anticipates potential problems and implements preventive measures.

* Integrity and Confidentiality:
Maintains highest ethical standards when handling sensitive contractual and legal information; exercises sound judgment and discretion.

* Written Communication:
Prepares clear, comprehensive, and grammatically correct legal…