Senior Contracts Manager/Director (based on level of experience)

at  Umbra

Umbra builds next-generation space systems that observe the Earth in unprecedented fidelity.
Our mission: Deliver global omniscience.
To stay ahead of climate change, geopolitical risk, and other major crises and issues, we need a global understanding of what is changing, where, and how fast. Umbra provides easy access to the highest quality commercial satellite data available, which is an indispensable tool for the growing number of organizations monitoring the Earth. We empower our customers to create solutions that inform, inspire, and address our planet’s most pressing needs. We’re helping to create a brand-new industry that has never meaningfully existed before.

POSITION OVERVIEW:

Are you a seasoned contracts management professional with a passion for innovative technology and a knack for managing complex contracts across both government and commercial sectors? We invite you to join our dynamic team as the Senior Manager/Director of Contracts (position level based on experience). Reporting directly to the VP, Head of Legal, the Senior Manager/Director of Contracts will be a pivotal player in our aerospace company, driving compliance, optimizing contract performance, and supporting cross-functional teams.
In this role, you will manage the full contract lifecycle for both government and commercial contracts, provide critical support to the deal desk, and work cross-functionally to ensure efficient and effective contract management. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in both government and commercial contracting, a proven track record of managing complex agreements, and the ability to bring creative solutions to complex legal challenges in a collaborative, fast-paced, and innovative environment.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Management, Law, or a related field. Advanced degree preferred.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in both government and commercial contract management, with a demonstrated track record of managing complex contracts.
• TS/SCI security clearance, read-in within the past two years.
• Direct experience with government intelligence community within the past two years.
• Willingness to visit customers throughout the National Capital Region.
• Proven expertise in government and commercial contracting, with a thorough understanding of procurement processes, contract negotiation, and data rights.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Effective communicator with the ability to build and maintain relationships with government officials, commercial clients, and internal stakeholders.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Experience with contract lifecycle management (CLM) and vendor management systems.
• Ability to work independently and handle multiple projects in a fast-paced environment.
• Potential to grow into a leadership role as the company expands.
• Resilience, resourcefulness, and the ability to make decisions with imperfect information.
• Enjoy utilizing technology to increase efficiency.
• Willingness to challenge the status quo and seek innovative solutions.

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Experience in a fast-growing startup focused on critical technology or within the Earth observation industry.
• Experience supporting a deal desk function, with a strong understanding of pricing, financial guidelines, and risk management.
• Background in program or contract management with the NRO, closely related agencies, or DoD space-focused agencies.
• A blend of experience in both law firm and in-house/government contracting settings.
• Strong intellectual curiosity with a commitment to continuous growth and improvement.
• Familiarity with contract lifecycle and vendor management systems.
• Engineering or other technology experience.
• NCMA Certifications, including CPCM, CFCM, or CCCM.
• Have grit and a can-do attitude.
• Eagerness to wear many hats and desire to expand beyond your core function.
• Experience with Cost Accounting Standards and administration.

ITAR/EAR REQUIREMENTS:

This position may include access to technology and/or data that is subject to U.S. export controls pursuant to ITAR and EAR. To comply with federal export controls, all persons hired must be a U.S. citizen, U.S. national, U.S. lawful permanent resident, refugee or asylee as defined by 8 U.S.C. § 1324b(a)(3), or must otherwise be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or U.S. Department of Commerce as applicable.

• Contract Administration:
• Oversee the administration of both government and commercial contracts from inception to completion, ensuring compliance with federal regulations, contractual obligations, and organizational policies.
• Develop and maintain a centralized contract repository for tracking key terms, obligations, renewals, and milestones for all contracts.
• Contract Negotiation:
• Lead negotiations for new contracts, modifications, and renewals across government and commercial sectors, ensuring favorable terms and compliance with applicable requirements.
• Collaborate closely with legal, finance, sales, and operations teams to draft and review contract language, support deal structures, and mitigate risk.
• Compliance Management:
• Ensure adherence to Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR), Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS), and other relevant regulations for government contracts, as well as applicable commercial laws and regulations.
• Implement and monitor compliance programs to mitigate risks and ensure contractual and regulatory adherence across all contracts.
• Deal Desk Support:
• Act as a key member of the deal desk, supporting cross-functional teams in structuring and approving deals that align with company objectives.
• Review pricing proposals, quotes, and contract terms for consistency with financial guidelines, risk management policies, and legal requirements.
• Performance Monitoring and Risk Management:
• Monitor and evaluate contract performance, including deliverables, milestones, and compliance with performance metrics. Address and resolve performance issues or discrepancies in collaboration with relevant departments.
• Identify, assess, and mitigate risks associated with government and commercial contracts. Develop and implement strategies to proactively address potential issues.
• Stakeholder Relations:
• Build and maintain relationships with government contracting officers, agency representatives, commercial partners, and other key stakeholders.
• Represent the organization in discussions and negotiations with government entities and commercial clients.
• Proposal Support:
• Support the bid and proposal process by reviewing and advising on proposal documents, ensuring compliance with government and commercial requirements, and contributing to the development of competitive proposals.
• Documentation and Reporting:
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of contract negotiations, modifications, and performance. Prepare and present reports on contract status, performance metrics, and compliance to senior management.
• Process Improvement:
• Continuously evaluate and improve contract management processes and systems. Implement best practices to enhance efficiency and effectiveness in contract administration and deal desk operations.