Assistant Director of Contract Administration Operations

Job Summary:

The Assistant Director of Contract Administration Operations provides contract-related guidance from a business perspective and support to the entire TCU community through all phases of contract negotiation, preparation and execution. Performs a wide range of duties related to contracts including review, revision and preparation of contracts that comply with Texas Christian University policies and procedures in advance of final review and signature.

Duties & Essential Job Functions:

1. Prepares, reviews, negotiates, and approves university contracts, ensuring consistency with TCU policies and legal requirements including but not limited to service contracts, non-disclosure agreements, licensing agreements, master service agreements, summary of contractor proposed terms and conditions, technology contracts, education affiliation agreements, and other related correspondence describing the offer and acceptance associated with a contract.
2. Engages appropriate university stakeholders and subject matter experts, as needed, for contract review and guidance.
3. Identifies potential contract issues requiring escalation to the Director of Contract Administration and General Counsel.
4. Does not provide legal advice, but may present issues to the Director of Contract Administration and General Counsel, and implement the General Counsel’s guidance regarding same.
5. Communicates with faculty and staff regarding contract issues, business matters, internal TCU policy and process requirements, and, as appropriate, advocates for the use of TCU form contracts and terms to promote an efficient and streamlined contract process.
6. In coordination with the Director of Contract Administration, assesses gaps and overlaps in business processes and lead efforts to analyze and streamline processes to improve organizational metrics, performance, and service levels.
7. Develops and administers contract related training and advising the contract liaisons and department representatives regarding contact management, contract negotiation, and compliance with TCU policies, procedures, and legal requirements.
8. Advises end users on the contract management system.
9. Performs other related duties as assigned.

Required Education & Experience:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration, Finance, Accounting, Public Administration, Higher Education, Legal Studies or other related field.
• 5 years’ experience with contract review, preparation and/or negotiation.

Preferred Education & Experience:

• MBA
• At least 3 years’ experience in higher education contract review, preparation and/or negotiation
• Ability to negotiate and to synthesize many kinds of information effectively in high paced environment

Required Licensure/Certification/Specialized Training:

• None

Preferred Licensure, Certification, and/or Specialized Training:

• None

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

• Knowledge of AI and a proactive interest in monitoring its evaluation to identify opportunities for integrating emerging tools into our workflows.
• Skilled in Microsoft Office, Adobe, and contract management software.
• Skill in effective written/oral communication and ability to manage a broad range of complex issues in a collaborative environment.
• Ability to prepare, negotiate, and advise clients on contracting and procurement involving some of the following industries: government, computer software, utilities, benefits, higher education, and energy.
• Ability to establish and revise forms, procedures, formats, and standards for contract documents.
• Ability to prepare contracts, memorandums, and other related documents.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and discretion.

TCU Core Competencies:

University Core Competencies definitions may be found on the Human Resources website and in the staff performance management system.

Physical Requirements (With or Without Accommodations):

• Visual acuity to read information from computer screens, forms, and other printed materials and information.
• Able to speak (enunciate) clearly in conversation and general communication.
• Hearing ability for verbal communication/conversation/responses via telephone, telephone systems, and face-to-face interactions.
• Manual dexterity for typing, writing, standing, and reaching, flexibility, body movement for bending, crouching, walking, kneeling, and prolonged sitting.
• Lifting and moving objects and equipment up to 10 lbs.

Work Environment:

• Work is indoors and sedentary and is subject to schedule changes and/or variable work hours.
• This role is an on campus, in-person position.
• There are no harmful environmental conditions present for this job.
• The noise level in this work environment is usually moderate.

Employment Values Statement:

Texas Christian University values Integrity, Engagement, Community, and Excellence in the workplace. TCU treats applicants and employees with fairness and respect. TCU hires and promotes individuals based on their qualifications and their commitment to making a positive impact on our student-centered community. TCU is an equal opportunity employer and follows all applicable employment laws. TCU fairly considers all qualified individuals, ensuring we are a workplace free from unlawful discrimination and harassment.