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Home Jobs Nairobi Contract Management and Client Liaison Lead

Contract Management and Client Liaison Lead

SOS Children's Villages  · NGO / Non-Profit Associations

Full Time Nairobi
Nairobi
Deadline: 31 August 2026
Posted June 4, 2026

To drive strategic initiatives that advance organizational objectives, this role is responsible for developing and executing mission-critical projects while ensuring alignment with long-term goals. The position requires a proven track record in leadership, cross-functional collaboration, and the ability to inspire teams toward achieving collective success. Key responsibilities include defining clear objectives, allocating resources efficiently, and fostering innovation to maintain a competitive edge. Strong analytical skills, adaptability, and a commitment to excellence are essential for navigating evolving challenges and delivering measurable outcomes.

The Contract Management & Liaison team acts as the primary intermediary between Member Associations (MA’s) and the International Development Support (IDS) units. It oversees the complete support delivery process—spanning planning, contracting, execution, and follow-up—to ensure alignment. The team translates MA’s’ requested needs into structured support proposals, funding agreements, and capacity assessments while maintaining a comprehensive view of all MA engagements. Through this approach, it facilitates seamless coordination across support areas and ensures consistent, high-quality relationship management with MA’s. The objective is to deliver timely, cohesive, and impactful support to MA’s while promoting efficient planning, adherence to governance standards, compliance, and transparent reporting. Additionally, the team fosters trusted partnerships to advance the broader SOS mission.

The Head of the Contract Management & Liaison (CML) Unit offers strategic direction, governance oversight, and centralized coordination for the IDS contractual engagements spanning the federation. This position spearheads the federation-wide integration of strategic support and service agreements, collaboration frameworks, externally funded initiatives, and operational partnership frameworks involving IDS, Member Associations (MA’s), Promoting & Supporting Associations (SAS), donors, and internal stakeholders.

This role oversees the end-to-end IDS engagement, encompassing Member Association liaison frameworks, support planning coordination, demand capture methodologies, strategic portfolio oversight, governance structures, operational escalation protocols, and digital contract management systems.

This role serves as a pivotal liaison and relationship manager within IDS, aligning federation objectives, IDS priorities, contractual obligations, operational execution, financial viability, and stakeholder relations. Collaborating with the IDS Leadership Team, the position delivers strategic guidance to the COO and senior leadership on contracting frameworks, market access (MA) engagement patterns, demand forecasting, risk mitigation, delivery oversight, and sustainable partnership development across the federation ecosystem.

This position spearheads the advancement of the federation’s unified contract management system, encompassing governance frameworks, digital solutions, reporting protocols, demand capture methodologies, coordinated support planning, and strategic portfolio oversight.

We are seeking an organized and proactive professional to manage a diverse range of tasks with precision and efficiency. The role involves overseeing daily operations, ensuring adherence to established procedures, and maintaining high standards of accuracy. Key responsibilities include coordinating team activities, monitoring project progress, and addressing any operational challenges that may arise. Additionally, the position requires strong analytical skills to evaluate performance metrics, identify areas for improvement, and implement effective solutions. The ideal candidate will demonstrate exceptional time management, clear communication, and the ability to work collaboratively across departments to achieve organizational goals.

Providing strategic direction and overseeing the coordination of contracts within a federated structure are key responsibilities for this role. The position requires strong leadership capabilities to guide cross-functional teams and ensure alignment with organizational objectives. Additionally, expertise in contract negotiation, execution, and management within a federated or decentralized framework is essential to drive successful outcomes.

Deliver strategic vision and guidance to the CML unit, overseeing its operations and performance. Direct and coordinate a globally dispersed CML team within a multifaceted international matrix structure.

Deliver high-level guidance, mentorship, and prioritization while ensuring performance standards are met for MA’s Relationship Advisors, contracting advisors, and coordination staff.

Provide strategic guidance to the Chief Operating Officer, Executive Board, and IDS Leadership Team regarding contractual governance, operational coordination, and relationships with Member Associations.

Foster robust collaboration and alignment among IDS, MA’s, SAS, donors, and internal support systems.

Deliver strategic analyses, prepare comprehensive briefing materials, conduct risk assessments, and develop scenario models to aid executive decision-making processes.

Leads the strategic oversight and governance of the contract portfolio with a focus on optimizing performance, mitigating risks, and ensuring alignment with organizational objectives. Establishes and enforces robust governance frameworks, policies, and procedures to maintain compliance and drive operational excellence. Collaborates with cross-functional teams to evaluate contract terms, identify opportunities for cost savings, and enhance vendor relationships. Ensures timely contract renewals, amendments, and terminations while maintaining meticulous documentation and audit readiness. Acts as a key liaison between senior leadership and stakeholders to communicate contract-related insights, risks, and recommendations. Requires a minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in contract management, legal compliance, or a related field, along with demonstrated leadership in portfolio governance and a deep understanding of contract lifecycle management.

Offer strategic leadership in managing the IDS agreement portfolio, which encompasses Support Domain Agreements (SDA), Cooperation Agreements (CA), Externally Funded Agreements (EFA), and Actual Use Agreements (AU) frameworks.

Ensure seamless coordination of agreement lifecycles, overseeing all phases from initial demand capture and planning through implementation, amendments, monitoring, reporting, and final closure.

Responsible for directing contract governance, ensuring adherence to compliance standards, managing risk mitigation strategies, and facilitating escalation procedures across all types of agreements.

Collaborate with Legal, Finance, MA IDS Leads, and operational teams to address strategic contractual matters and governance-related decisions.

Facilitate the standardization, streamlining, and ongoing enhancement of contracting and engagement processes throughout IDS.

Capture demand, plan services, and coordinate operations to ensure seamless execution and alignment with organizational objectives.

Oversee the enterprise-wide coordination of the IDS demand capture and support planning process.

Ensure alignment of MA demand with operational capacity, resource availability, funding projections, and service delivery priorities.

Assist in the development of scenario plans and operational models to evaluate funding risks, monitor trends in membership and affiliation (MA) participation, and assess the long-term sustainability of services.

Oversee the enhancement of support catalogues, service packages, operational coordination models, and engagement frameworks to maximize efficiency and effectiveness.

The incumbent will serve as the liaison and oversee relationship management responsibilities, ensuring seamless communication and collaboration between parties. They will be tasked with cultivating and maintaining strong professional connections, resolving any potential issues, and aligning objectives to drive mutual success. Strong interpersonal skills, the ability to manage competing priorities, and a proactive approach to problem-solving are essential. Experience in stakeholder engagement, conflict resolution, and strategic alignment is preferred.

Oversee the development and execution of the strategic relationship management and liaison framework between IDS and Member Associations throughout the federation.

Act as the primary senior liaison for National Directors, MA leadership teams, SAS, and essential federation stakeholders concerning IDS services, support structures, and operational alignment.

Ensure proactive engagement, consistent communication, and ongoing relationship management with medical assistants throughout every phase of the support planning process, contract execution, implementation coordination, escalation resolution, and post-service delivery follow-up.

Assist in proactively identifying and addressing potential relationship risks, operational challenges, funding uncertainties, emerging dissatisfaction trends, and escalation cases necessitating leadership involvement.

Digital transformation and operational excellence are prioritized to drive innovation and efficiency across the organization. This role focuses on leveraging cutting-edge technologies and methodologies to optimize processes, enhance performance, and ensure sustainable growth. Key responsibilities include identifying opportunities for improvement, implementing strategic initiatives, and fostering a culture of continuous enhancement. Candidates should possess a proven track record in digital transformation projects, expertise in operational best practices, and strong leadership skills to guide teams through change.

Design and implement dashboards, Power BI reports, analytics tools, portfolio insights, and management information systems to drive data-driven decision-making and strategic planning.

Drive modernization and digital transformation efforts focused on contract lifecycle management, stakeholder engagement, service monitoring, workflow automation, electronic signature solutions, and reporting frameworks.

We facilitate the deployment of unified digital systems aimed at enhancing operational coordination, managing contract governance, tracking efforts, and overseeing portfolio management.

Drive operational excellence by streamlining, scaling, and standardizing federation engagement and coordination processes to enhance overall efficiency and effectiveness.

To ensure the maintenance of safeguarding standards and foster a secure environment for all individuals.

As a representative of or in collaboration with SOS Children’s Villages, your role involves contributing to the establishment and preservation of a secure and nurturing environment for personnel, as well as for the children, adolescents, and adults participating in our programs. Your responsibilities include:

Dedicate yourself to adhering to the Code of Conduct while consistently evaluating the safeguarding consequences of your professional activities.

Collaborate in team meetings to recognize potential risks and contribute by proposing and implementing preventative and mitigation strategies and measures.

Embed safeguarding considerations into every decision and activity undertaken.

Any safeguarding concerns must be reported without delay and in strict adherence to established procedures.

Foster a culture rooted in shared values, uphold accountability at all levels, and enforce a strict zero-tolerance policy toward harm.

The position necessitates a minimum of 5 years of experience in a related field, with proficiency in project management and data analysis being essential. A bachelor’s degree in business administration, finance, or a related discipline is required, while a master’s degree is strongly preferred. Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, are imperative, along with the ability to work collaboratively in a team environment. Additionally, candidates must demonstrate exceptional problem-solving abilities and a keen attention to detail. Familiarity with industry-specific software and tools, such as Microsoft Office Suite and advanced Excel skills, is mandatory.

A Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, International Development, Law, Finance, or an equivalent discipline is required.

A postgraduate diploma or Master’s degree in Contract Management, Procurement, Project Governance, or a closely related discipline is highly advantageous. Additionally, professional certifications such as the Contract Management Certification (CCMP) or its equivalent, along with Procurement or Project Management certifications like PMP or PRINCE2, are valued credentials for this role.

A minimum of 8 to 10 years of professional experience is required, with at least 4 years dedicated to senior leadership or managerial positions such as Lead or Head of Unit within international NGOs, donor-funded programs, or similar international organizations.

Proficiency in contract management, procurement, office management, or business administration gained within the context of international NGOs or donor-funded programs is required.

Proven track record in developing, negotiating, and administering contracts in alignment with donor stipulations and internal governance frameworks.

Proven expertise in performing compliance reviews, pinpointing potential risks, and implementing effective mitigation strategies.

Financial coordination duties include evaluating budgets and analyzing the financial impact of contractual choices.

Demonstrated proficiency in financial management principles, with expertise in conducting financial impact assessments, performing cost-benefit analyses, and overseeing budget-related implications tied to contract-related decisions.

Skilled in enhancing risk management frameworks and ensuring audit readiness through the development of robust compliance processes and active participation in contract audit activities.

Proficient in a range of technical competencies, including [list technical skills here] with varying degrees of mastery from intermediate to advanced levels. Demonstrates expertise in [specific skill 1], [specific skill 2], and [specific skill 3], enabling efficient problem-solving and system optimization. Capable of applying [specific skill 4] and [specific skill 5] to streamline workflows and enhance productivity. Familiar with industry-standard tools such as [tool 1], [tool 2], and [tool 3], ensuring seamless integration and operational efficiency. Maintains up-to-date knowledge of emerging technologies and methodologies to support continuous improvement and innovation.

Contract lifecycle management and compliance entails overseeing the entire lifecycle of contracts, from initiation to execution and renewal, while ensuring adherence to legal and regulatory requirements. This role demands expertise in managing complex contractual agreements, mitigating risks, and maintaining meticulous documentation to uphold organizational standards and mitigate potential liabilities. Proficiency in contract lifecycle management software and a keen understanding of compliance frameworks are essential to execute responsibilities effectively.

Intermediate-level responsibilities include the drafting, coordination, and negotiation of contracts.

Facilitates negotiation and dispute resolution processes in complex, multi-stakeholder settings with a moderate level of expertise.

The position involves managing contract amendments and renewal processes at an intermediate level. Responsibilities include reviewing and updating existing contracts, negotiating terms with stakeholders, and ensuring compliance with organizational policies and legal requirements. Proficiency in contract management software and strong attention to detail are required to accurately document changes and maintain records. Effective communication skills are essential for collaborating with various departments and external partners to facilitate smooth transitions and minimize disruptions.

Intermediate-level roles in compliance and governance frameworks involve ensuring adherence to regulatory requirements and internal policies while supporting the establishment and maintenance of robust governance structures. These positions require a solid understanding of relevant laws, industry standards, and organizational policies, along with the ability to assist in the development and implementation of compliance programs. Responsibilities may include monitoring regulatory changes, conducting risk assessments, and facilitating training initiatives to promote a culture of compliance across the organization. Strong analytical, communication, and organizational skills are essential, as is the ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams to address compliance gaps and enhance governance practices.

Proficiency in e-signature and workflow automation platforms, such as DocuSign or Adobe Sign, is required, with foundational experience preferred.

Proficient in collaborative teamwork, strong interpersonal abilities, and clear communication skills are essential for this role. Demonstrated adaptability to changing priorities and a proactive approach to problem-solving are required. Attention to detail, organizational proficiency, and the capacity to manage multiple tasks efficiently are also critical. The ability to work independently with minimal supervision while maintaining high productivity levels is expected. A commitment to continuous learning and professional development, along with a customer-focused mindset, further enhances success in this position.

Demonstrated proficiency in communication and interpersonal abilities, enabling the cultivation of meaningful relationships and the effective engagement of varied stakeholder groups.

Demonstrates accountability and ownership for all assigned contracts while ensuring precision and adherence to compliance standards.

Required: Strong negotiation skills to facilitate high-stakes discussions with professionalism and strategic insight.

Developing the capacity for critical analysis and strategic problem resolution is essential to effectively navigate intricate and uncertain scenarios.

Ensures meticulous attention to detail and excellent organizational abilities to uphold accuracy, regulatory adherence, and adherence to deadlines.

Demonstrates cross-cultural competence and excels in collaborating seamlessly with diverse international teams.

Demonstrates flexibility in responding to evolving priorities and shifting work demands with ease and efficiency.

Demonstrated emotional intelligence, characterized by the capacity to acknowledge and positively address differing viewpoints.

Demonstrates a strong capacity to meet contractual key performance indicators, adhere to established timelines, and uphold compliance requirements effectively.

We offer flexible work arrangements to accommodate diverse schedules and preferences.

Global collaboration and communication entail fostering seamless interaction across diverse geographical locations, cultures, and time zones, ensuring clarity, openness, and unified comprehension within dispersed teams.

Collaborating across diverse functions and specialized domains, this role involves engaging with colleagues to integrate expertise, address challenges through joint efforts, and ensure results that support the organization’s strategic goals.

Effective collaboration in matrix organizations requires proactive engagement across both solid and dotted reporting structures by fostering transparent communication, harmonizing objectives with line and functional leaders, and clarifying roles, responsibilities, and expectations to facilitate seamless cross-team execution.

Flexibility and adaptability are essential, requiring responsiveness to dynamic contexts and the ability to adjust priorities, approaches, and collaborative methods as projects, services, or organizational needs change.

Ownership and accountability entail assuming full responsibility for driving tasks and initiatives forward, actively resolving challenges, and guaranteeing that commitments, decisions, and actions are executed to their successful conclusion. Instead of waiting for explicit direction, you will take initiative within your defined role to ensure progress and results.

Strengthening member associations while preserving their autonomy involves ensuring that insights, resources, and best practices derived from projects and services are effectively disseminated to member associations. This enables them to benefit from prior work, enhance their capabilities, and gradually build their self-reliance.

Continuous feedback and transparency are fundamental to fostering an open and constructive environment where feedback and data are exchanged freely. This approach empowers teams and stakeholders to engage in meaningful reflection, drive learning, and enhance their work and overall impact on an ongoing basis.

Qualifications

BA/BSc/HND , Diploma , MBA/MSc/MA , Professional Certificate

Experience Required

8 - 10 years

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