Job Description

The  Contracts Manager is responsible for managing, tracking, and organizing the Skirball's legal documents and matters, with a focus on vendor agreements, contractual compliance, and administrative legal coordination. With training and experience equivalent to a senior paralegal, this role serves as the internal hub for contract lifecycle management and provides vital support to senior leadership on legal and compliance matters. The Contracts Manager works cross-functionally with departments throughout the organization and coordinates with outside counsel as needed.

Compensation:

The Skirball Cultural Center offers a competitive salary of $95,000 commensurate with experience and a generous benefits package including health, dental, vision, retirement plan, paid vacation and holidays, and opportunities for professional development.

Responsibilities:

Contract Management and Administration

• Maintain an organized and up-to-date contract management system, tracking the lifecycle of all contracts, including key deadlines and renewals.
• Prepare, revise, and finalize standard contracts, MOUs, and vendor agreements using approved templates.
• Coordinate with Finance & Accounting team to ensure foreign withholding, 1099, tax, or other similar matters are addressed and/or updated within the agreements.
• Facilitate the timely review and execution of agreements, ensuring proper approvals and adherence to internal protocols.
• Maintain and periodically update contract templates, forms, and standard clauses in consultation with leadership and legal advisors.

Legal Coordination and Compliance

• Serve as liaison to outside counsel for more complex legal matters, including litigation, intellectual property, real estate, corporate governance, or employment law issues.
• Support internal stakeholders by responding to routine legal and compliance inquiries and providing preliminary reviews of agreements and policies.
• Assist with due diligence, documentation, and regulatory compliance related to contracts, insurance, licensing, and permits.
• Support organizational policies related to risk management and legal compliance, including training staff on contract processes.

Executive Support and Special Projects

• Provide direct legal-administrative support to senior executives, including the CFO and EVP, on contractual and legal matters.
• Track and assist with nonprofit governance obligations such as conflict of interest disclosures and policy reviews.
• Conduct basic legal research or compile information as needed for strategic initiatives or compliance audits.
• Prepare and manage files for board resolutions, vendor disputes, and legal correspondence.

Qualifications, Experience, and Attributes:

Education and Experience

• Paralegal certificate from an ABA-approved program preferred. Equivalent training and experience considered.
• Minimum of 7 years of relevant experience in contract administration, legal operations, or as a senior paralegal.
• Experience working in a nonprofit, arts/cultural, or academic setting is desirable.

Knowledge and Skills

• Strong knowledge of contract structure, standard terms, and legal concepts, especially in vendor, service, and licensing agreements.
• Experience with contract negotiation.
• Proficient in managing document tracking systems and contract lifecycle management tools.
• Exceptional attention to detail, organizational skills, and ability to manage multiple deadlines.
• Discretion and sound judgment in handling confidential and sensitive information.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to communicate legal concepts clearly to non-legal staff.
• Collaborative working style and strong interpersonal skills to liaise effectively across departments and with external counsel.

Physical and environmental demands of the job: Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer. Must be able to lift up to 15 pounds.

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