Virtually all transactions in the business world are governed by contracts: individual employment contracts, multi-million dollar sales and purchases, government projects, partnership agreements and mergers and acquisitions. Professionals certified in contract management are highly sought after by business and government organizations for a variety of key functions. These specialists monitor and measure contract performance, ensure legal compliance and cost-efficiency, shorten contract lifecycles, enhance procurement decision-making and reduce operational and regulatory risks.
Typical areas of contract management include document management, baseline management, issue management and transaction compliance. Certificate and Associate of Arts programs in Contract Management are designed to prepare students for careers in contract management in corporations and government agencies.
The role has become more critical in the global economy due to increasing contract complexity and the challenges of international contract law and fulfillment. With the additional impact of technology on the exchange of products and services, the role of todays contract manager will continue to expand.