Manager, Contracts and Proposals

Description

Vari started by developing the world’s leading sit-stand desk converter to help a coworker with back pain, but now we’re so much more than a desk. We are flexible workspace solutions made simple and installed fast. We’ve shipped products to more than 120 countries, and our solutions are in 98% of Fortune 500 companies. 

We are seeking a highly organized and detail-oriented Contract and Request for Proposal (RFP) Manager to join our team. The Contract and RFP Manager will be responsible for managing the entire lifecycle of contracts and RFPs, from initiation to execution, ensuring compliance with company policies and regulations. The ideal candidate will have strong negotiation skills, excellent communication abilities, and a deep understanding of contract management processes. 

Key Responsibilities: 

Contract Management: 

• Oversee the development, negotiation, and execution of contracts with clients, vendors, and partners. 
• Ensure that all contracts comply with company policies, legal requirements, and industry regulations. 
• Manage contract renewals, amendments, and terminations as necessary. 
• Maintain accurate records of all contracts and related documents. 

RFP Management: 

• Lead the development and submission of responses to RFPs, RFQs, and RFIs. 
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders to gather necessary information and resources for RFP responses. 
• Coordinate with subject matter experts to ensure that RFP responses are accurate, comprehensive, and compelling. 
• Manage the RFP process timeline and deliverables, ensuring timely submission of responses. 

Vendor Management: 

• Evaluate vendor proposals and contracts to ensure alignment with organizational goals and objectives. 
• Negotiate pricing, terms, and conditions with vendors to achieve favorable outcomes. 
• Establish and maintain strong relationships with key vendors and suppliers. 

Compliance and Risk Management: 

• Monitor contract compliance and performance to identify and mitigate risks. 
• Conduct regular audits of contracts and RFP processes to ensure adherence to internal policies and regulatory requirements. 
• Develop and implement strategies to minimize contractual and operational risks. 

Cross-Functional Collaboration: 

• Collaborate with various departments, including Legal, Finance, Sales, Sales Operations and Operations, to support contract and RFP activities. 
• Serve as a subject matter expert on contract and RFP-related matters, providing guidance and support to internal stakeholders. 

Additional Duties: 

Establish and Implement Departmental Goals and Objectives: 

• Develop and implement departmental goals and objectives that align with the overall business strategy. 
• Regularly assess progress towards goals and objectives and report out on key metrics to showcase the value and impact of the contract and RFP management function. 
• Collaborate with senior management to identify opportunities for improvement and optimize contract and RFP processes. 

Primary Support on the GSA Contract: 

• Serve as primary support for the General Services Administration (GSA) contract, ensuring compliance with GSA regulations and guidelines.
• Manage the GSA schedule pertaining to product management, pricing, billing, and overall adherence to rules and regulations as a schedule holder. 
• Work closely with the GSA contract consultant to maintain accurate records and facilitate audits as needed. 

Act as Subject Matter Expert to the Sales Team: 

• Provide expertise and guidance to the Sales team on contract and proposal-related matters. 
• Support sales team with contract strategy by providing data insights into terms, revenue, membership lists to drive incremental revenue
• Conduct continual training sessions to educate Sales team members on best practices for contract negotiation, RFP response development, and compliance requirements. 
• Be available to support Sales team members during customer calls or meetings, offering insights and solutions to address customer needs and concerns effectively. 

These additional duties will further enhance the Contract and RFP Manager's role, contributing to the overall success of the department and the organization. 

Qualifications: 

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Contract Management, Legal Studies, or related field. Advanced degree preferred. 
• Proven experience in contract management, Proposal Management and Development, or related roles. 
• Strong knowledge of contract law, negotiation techniques, and procurement processes. 
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal. 
• Exceptional attention to detail and ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously. 
• Proficiency in contract management software and Microsoft Office Suite. 
• Certification in Contract Management (e.g., CPCM, CFCM) is a plus.

Why Vari:

• State of the art On-site Gym, spa-like locker room, and Chair Massage Pod
• Enhanced paternity / maternity / Adoption programs
• 401k and profit-sharing plan
• Personal time off / Volunteer time off
• Team building events on and off site
• Mentoring and career development
• Education reimbursement
• Wellness program and insurance premium discounts
• At-home work set-up