Senior Contract Manager

EXO Talent Partners is a retained executive search firm in aerospace, defense, space, and advanced manufacturing. We are conducting a confidential search for a Senior Contracts Manager for an established defense manufacturer in the Melbourne, Florida area. This is a direct-hire role with our client, and we disclose the company to candidates early in the process.

About the role. Lead government contract management for a growing defense programs group. This is a hands-on leadership seat. You will own your own portfolio of prime contracts and mentor a small team of contracts professionals, reporting to a senior contracts leader, with a clear path to broader responsibility over time. On-site in Melbourne, FL. R

What you will do

• Manage the full lifecycle of U.S. government prime contracts: FAR/DFARS compliance, negotiation, change management, inspection, acceptance, payment, warranty, and closeout.
• Work across all major contract types: FFP, FPI, cost-type (CPFF/CPIF/CPAF), T&M, IDIQ with delivery orders, and OTAs.
• Handle government IP and data-rights, source-selection support, cost and price analysis, and government property administration.
• Draft and negotiate contracts, subcontracts, teaming agreements, and related documents.
• Mentor junior contracts staff and partner across program, finance, and operations teams.

What you bring

• 7+ years of progressive U.S. government contracts experience, defense or aerospace preferred.
• Comprehensive FAR and DFARS knowledge across all major contract types.
• A track record of owning complex contracts end to end and working outside a narrow lane.
• Bachelor's degree in business or a related field. CPCM or CFCM a plus, not required.