Contracts Systems Manager

Overview

A scientific innovation organization is seeking a Contracts System Manager to oversee and administer its Contract Lifecycle Management (CLM) and procurement systems. This role involves system configuration, optimization, user support, training, and collaboration with Legal, Procurement, and Finance teams to ensure efficient contract management across the organization and its portfolio companies.

Responsibilities

System Administration & Configuration

• Serve as the primary administrator for the CLM system (Cobblestone preferred), including configuration, user provisioning, role-based access control, and permissions management
• Design and configure contract workflows, approval routing, and dynamic intake forms based on agreement type, spend thresholds, department, or legal requirements
• Manage contract templates, playbook terms, and clause libraries; configure new templates and workflows as needed
• Maintain repository accuracy, metadata tagging, and taxonomy; identify inefficiencies and propose workflow improvements

Integration & Technical Operations

• Oversee and troubleshoot API connections and data synchronization between the CLM system and downstream systems (ERP, procurement platforms, HRIS, e-signature tools)
• Coordinate with IT on system integrations, security protocols, and technical requirements; act as liaison between business functions, IT, and CLM vendor
• Test and deploy system updates, patches, and new features; manage change control to minimize disruption
• Configure and maintain vendor management modules for data capture and risk assessment during vendor onboarding

User Support & Training

• Provide Tier 1 and Tier 2 support for CLM system users, including troubleshooting and resolving workflow issues
• Onboard and train new users on CLM functionality and related processes through coaching, demonstrations, and personalized support
• Develop and maintain training materials, user guides, and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs); gather user feedback and recommend improvements
• Support onboarding of new portfolio companies onto contract standards and CLM processes, guiding stakeholders through change management

Cross-Functional Collaboration & Stakeholder Engagement

• Act as liaison between IT and Finance, Legal, and Procurement teams, translating business processes into technical requirements
• Build and maintain relationships across the organization and portfolio companies to understand contracting needs and influence adoption of standardized processes
• Coordinate with external vendors, counterparties, and law firms on contract logistics and system clarifications

Reporting & Analytics

• Build dashboards and generate contract metrics to inform leadership and stakeholders
• Conduct system audits to monitor data integrity, system health, and key performance metrics
• Track key dates and milestones; identify and escalate potential risks such as deadlines and renewal windows

Compliance & Process Improvement

• Participate in assessing and refining business requirements for the CLM system
• Support compliance with life sciences regulatory requirements (FDA, GxP where applicable)
• Identify and recommend process improvements to enhance efficiency, compliance, and user adoption

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Information Systems, Legal Studies, or related discipline
• 3–5 years of experience as a CLM systems administrator, legal operations specialist, or similar role
• Proficiency with CLM systems and workflows; hands-on experience with system configuration and user administration
• Understanding of procurement and finance processes including budgets, payment terms, and vendor engagement
• Experience developing and implementing system-driven workflows; familiarity with Jira or similar tools
• Strong written and verbal communication skills with excellent stakeholder engagement and influencing abilities
• Ability to exercise independent judgment in prioritizing workflows and making nuanced decisions
• Experience troubleshooting CLM or workflow system issues
• Detail-oriented with strong organizational and project management skills
• Ability to multi-task and work independently in a fast-paced environment

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in biotech, life sciences, pharmaceutical, or regulated industries
• Experience configuring or administering Cobblestone CLM system
• Familiarity with Coupa or other procurement system integration
• Experience with contract intake and legal operations frameworks
• Exposure to commercial agreements and legal terms and conditions
• Experience leading or participating in CLM system implementation projects
• Familiarity with FDA regulations, GxP requirements, or clinical contracting in life sciences
• Proficiency with Microsoft 365, Coupa, Cobblestone, DocuSign, and Adobe Acrobat
• Ability to work in a scrum/agile environment

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary range: $108,000 - $148,000, dependent on qualifications, skills, competencies, and experience
• Healthcare coverage
• Annual incentive program
• Retirement benefits
• Broad range of additional benefits

Location

• Standard office environment located in Cambridge, with hybrid and remote flexibility options

Equal Opportunity

The organization is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.