Manager, Contracts & Risk Management na undefined

Position Summary
The Manager, Contracts & Risk Management plays a key role in safeguarding Erikson’s legal, financial, and reputational integrity. Reporting to the General Counsel, this position oversees the review, negotiation, and financial & operational management of institutional contracts; ensures compliance with contracting requirements and policies; and develops risk management frameworks to protect Erikson’s people, programs, and resources. The Manager, Contracts & Risk Management will work collaboratively across departments, supporting both operational efficiency and strategic growth.

 Key Responsibilities

• Contracts Management
  • Implement, manage and maintain contract management system, repository and training.
  • Create and manage the contracting process with metrics and reporting. 
  • Under the direction of the General Counsel, draft, review, negotiate, and manage a wide range of contracts (vendor, consultant, grant, sponsorship, IT, partnership, and service agreements).
  • Develop and implement policies and contract templates to ensure efficiency and consistency.
• Financial & Risk Management
  • Working with management, create and implement financial risk management internal controls for contract management.
  • Identify, assess, and mitigate institutional risks in collaboration with leadership and key stakeholders.
  • Manage insurance coverage and claims processes, liaising with external providers as needed.
  • Monitor compliance with state, federal, and accreditation requirements related to risk, liability, and institutional operations.
• Governance & Compliance Support
  • Partner with the General Counsel to ensure compliance with board governance processes, policies, and reporting obligations.
  • Support institutional audits and regulatory filings.
• Training & Capacity Building
  • Provide training and resources for staff and faculty on contracts, compliance, and risk management practices.
  • Serve as an accessible advisor to colleagues navigating agreements or compliance obligations.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or paralegal certificate required; advanced degree (MBA, Finance or J.D.) strongly preferred.
• Minimum 5 years of progressively responsible experience in contracts management, procurement, compliance, or risk management, ideally within higher education, nonprofit, or related sectors.
• Knowledge of contract management systems, Microsoft 365 and other office software and systems. 
• Strong knowledge of contract law, compliance frameworks, finance and risk management practices.
• Ability to work independently as well as leading and collaborating with coworkers and teams.
• Ability to manage negotiations, interactions and dealings with external partners and vendors with professionalism and sound judgment.  
• Excellent negotiation, communication, and relationship-building skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively across a mission-driven, dynamic institution.
• Exceptional organizational skills with attention to detail and follow-through.
• Highest levels of ethics, integrity, sound judgment and decision making.

To Apply

 Please submit a cover letter and resume via the 'Apply' link.

Erikson is open to individual candidates from all backgrounds and experiences. Candidates should apply whether or not they feel that they meet all the requirements or qualifications for the position. We are looking forward to having exciting conversations with engaging candidates and will welcome your application.

About Erikson Institute

We are the premier early childhood development organization committed to ensuring that all children have equitable opportunities to realize their potential.

Erikson Institute’s graduate school uniquely prepares child development, education, and social work leaders to improve the lives of young children and their families. Our impact and influence are further amplified through our innovative academic programs, applied research, direct services in the community, advocacy, policy and leadership.

Erikson Institute is an equal opportunity employer. We consider all applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national or ethnic origin, sexual orientation, marital status, age, disability, veteran status, family responsibilities, or any other classes protected by federal, state, or local laws. In addition, Erikson Institute provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities in accordance with the Americans With Disabilities Act and applicable state and local laws (including during the application or hiring process).

To learn more, please visit our web site at www.erikson.edu