Contract Management Lead (Computer Services Officer 4)

ABOUT THE DEPARTMENT OF CYBER SECURITY AND DIGITAL SOLUTIONS (CSDS)

At the Department of Cyber Security and Digital Solutions (CSDS), we prioritize people and are dedicated to driving digital transformation that meets modern expectations. Our mission is to support government departments and partners in their digital transformation journeys, ensuring that digital services are user-centered, efficient, and impactful for all Nova Scotians.

We don’t just implement digital solutions; we navigate the complexities of digital transformation by modernizing outdated systems and ways of working. Our role is to make a real difference by ensuring that our digital services are accessible and user-friendly.

At CSDS, we celebrate diversity, inclusion, and belonging. We recognize that the people who use government programs and services come from all walks of life, and it’s essential that we reflect the communities we serve. We are committed to creating an environment where diverse perspectives and experiences are valued, and where all talent can thrive. By embracing these values, we deliver better, more accessible, and inclusive public services.

Your Impact as the Contract Management Lead

Cyber Security and Digital Solutions (CSDS) is seeking to fill a Contract Management Lead (Computer Services Officer 4) position. 

Reporting to the Manager of ERP Contract and Vendor Management, the Contract Management Lead is responsible for overseeing and managing the entire contract lifecycle. This role focuses on the negotiation, implementation of agreements and the measurement of performance to ensure they align with organizational goals.

Key Responsibilities

As the Contract Management Lead, your primary accountabilities will include:

• Guiding the development of contract documents and supporting IT contract negotiations with CSDS partners with a focus on managing risk and implementation of best practices.

• Managing new and existing IT contracts and performing contract management activities, including performance monitoring, compliance, risk mitigation, issue resolution, change management, documentation, reporting, relationship management, and cost management. 

• Supporting our partners in the operationalization of contracts by developing contract specific management protocols, governance structures, identifying obligations, and delivering training.

• Liaise with legal services team in providing subject matter expertise related to IT contracts.

• Evaluating and analyzing the services, reports, data received from vendors against the requirements, identifying trends and providing regular updates on supplier performance, risks, and issues to management. 

• Developing criteria, standards,  policies and procedures for measuring the quality of service.  

• Assessing emerging trends and best practices in IT contract management and integrating relevant improvement into existing contract management processes to enhance effectiveness and alignment with industry standards.

• Designing, developing and maintaining the Vendor and Contract Management service catalogue, and promoting and managing services with partners.  

• Work closely with departmental staff to build strong relationships, liaises with CSDS functional and product teams and business owners and external vendors.

• Defining, designing and implementing Service Improvement Programs that support and align with business benefits.

• Supporting Audit functions including Risk Assessments.

• Assisting and performing other duties in collaboration with the partners across CSDS.

Qualifications and Experience

• As the successful candidate, you will have a Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology or business discipline plus a minimum of five (5) years relevant professional experience in contract management or graduation from a recognized Information Technology Program and Six (6) years related experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience may be acceptable. 

• Demonstrated Experience in Contract Management preferably within a digital transformation context including proven negotiations skills, developing contract documents, performance monitoring, issue resolution, and reporting. 

• Proficiency in data analysis, report interpretation, trend identification, and providing feedback and generating reports to management.

• You must have experience as a team leader and the ability to demonstrate leadership attributes and possess strong interpersonal skills, as well as, verbal and written communications skills, in order to interact effectively with a diverse vendor and client group. You must be able to demonstrate a commitment to professional development, resourcefulness, sound judgments, problem-solving and initiative to be considered for this position.

• Experience in business, finance and accounting.  You will have excellent business Management and analytical skills.

• You must have strong business and IT skills; proficiency with MS Word, PowerPoint, and Excel.  Basic knowledge of Power BI, and Copilot. 

• Problem-solving abilities to proactively address issues and implement effective corrective actions.
   

Assets

The following will be considered assets:

• ITIL Certification, Project Management Certification (PMP), Business Analysis Certification. 

• Procurement experience in public sector/digital transformation.

• Experience in policy development and maintenance.

Equivalency

Applicants relying on education and experience equivalencies must demonstrate such equivalencies in their application.

We recognize that everyone brings different skills and experiences to the table.

If you don’t “check all the boxes”, we encourage you to apply anyway and tell us why you’re the right fit for the job.

We value diversity of thought and believe that the best teams are those that bring together people with a range of experiences and perspectives.

Benefits & Perks

At the CSDS with the Government of Nova Scotia, we are committed to providing a fulfilling work environment with numerous benefits and opportunities:

• Work-Life Balance: Maintain a healthy work-life balance with a 35-hour work week. 

• Secure Your Future: Access a defined benefits pension plan for a stable retirement. 

• Annual Leave & Holidays: Start with 3 weeks (15 days) of annual vacation. 

• Supportive Leadership: Our leadership prioritizes flexibility, communication, and enabling your success.

• Support in Times of Need: Rely on short- and long-term support options tailored to help you and your family when it matters most.

• Employee and Family Support: Access our Employee and Family Assistance Programs for comprehensive resources and guidance.

• Cross-Sector Collaboration: Engage with various stakeholders and government departments, building expertise and connections that enrich Nova Scotia’s future, and your own professional development. 

• Growth & Development: Explore career paths in specialized areas like digital service design, cybersecurity, enterprise risk, digital platforms, mission IT, and more.

• Lifelong Learning: Expand your skills with ongoing training and development opportunities.

• Professional Advancement: Dive into public service with endless opportunities for growth, learning, and meaningful contributions.

Join the Department of Cyber Security & Digital Solutions and experience the benefits of a fulfilling career, supported by comprehensive perks, career development opportunities, and a diverse range of paths to explore within our department and across the government.