Contract Manager

At the Melbourne Market Authority (MMA), we don't just manage a market — we fuel Victoria's fresh produce supply chain with innovation, sustainability, and operational excellence at the core. Now, we're on the lookout for a dynamic and driven Contract Manager to take ownership of our key Facility Management and project delivery contracts.

In this pivotal role, you'll oversee the site's key agreement, drive performance outcomes, and build strong supplier relationships — all while working at the heart of one of the state's most important food distribution hubs. If you thrive on strategic thinking, commercial problem-solving, and making real impact, this is the opportunity to take your career to the next level.

Responsibilities

• Take the lead on major Facility Management (FM) contracts — from negotiation through to performance oversight — ensuring they align with MMA's goals and deliver long-term value.
• Partner with stakeholders across the business to define contract scopes, terms, and deliverables that are clear, commercial, and future-ready.
• Proactively identify risks and craft smart mitigation strategies, ensuring contracts remain compliant, cost-effective, and sustainable.
• Optimise contract performance by analysing proposals, unlocking cost savings, and driving strategic outcomes through commercial acumen.
• Be the go-to expert for contract-related queries, providing advice and resolving issues through confident negotiation and sound judgement.
• Ensure legal and regulatory compliance across all agreements, including WHS and environmental standards — keeping our operations safe and accountable.
• Own the full lifecycle of project delivery contracts (construction, fit-outs, equipment, consultancy) — from procurement to completion and close-out.
• Support project teams by developing clear scopes of work and contract specifications that enable smooth delivery and strong supplier performance.
• Lead or assist in tendering processes, including evaluation, negotiation, and awarding of contracts — ensuring the best commercial outcomes for MMA.
• Draft and manage contracts with precision, using standard contract forms (e.g. AS 4000 series) where appropriate to streamline and de-risk operations.
• Administer active contracts with confidence — including variations, extensions, claims, and notices — while maintaining compliance with contract terms.
• Track and measure performance through SLAs and KPIs, ensuring contractors are meeting (or exceeding) expectations.
• Drive continuous improvement by identifying performance gaps, leading corrective actions, and building strong, collaborative supplier relationships.
• Report on contract performance with insights that help drive decision-making and operational improvements across the business.

To be Successful

We're looking for someone who has the below skill set and/or experiences:

• Strong leadership and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively
• Strong negotiation and influencing skills
• Bachelor's degree in business administration, Law, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in contract administration, preferably in the facility management industry.
• Strong understanding of contract law, procurement principles, and facility management practices.
• Proficiency in relevant software applications (e.g., contract management software, MS Office suite)

What in it for you?

• Be part of an iconic organisation central to Victoria's food supply chain
• Lead a committed operations team in a dynamic environment
• Enjoy a role with real impact, balancing hands-on operations and strategic leadership
• Competitive salary and permanent, stable employment
• Mentorship from the executive leadership team
• Onsite parking – Our car park is free and secure
• Regular social events and activities
• Learning & Development opportunities
• 15 days of Personal Leave
• 3 Months Paid Primary Carer Leave
• Flu vaccinations
• Employment Hero Swag Store – access to exclusive offers and discounts
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) – free confidential and external counselling for you and your immediate family members
• Salary packaging including Novated Lease