Associate Director of Contracts

• An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced and highly motivated Associate Director of Contracts to join a large and progressive NHS organisation.
• This is a senior leadership role, responsible for overseeing all aspects of the Trust’s contracting function. You will play a pivotal part in shaping and delivering the organisation’s contracting strategy, ensuring effective negotiation and management of contracts with commissioners and system partners.
• Working closely with executive and operational colleagues, you will support the delivery of high-quality, financially sustainable services aligned to organisational priorities and wider system objectives.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development and implementation of the organisation’s contracting strategy
• Oversee all contract negotiations and agreements with NHS commissioners and partners
• Ensure effective management of the NHS Standard Contract, including performance, quality, and finance elements
• Provide expert advice on national policy, payment mechanisms, and regulatory requirements
• Drive robust contract monitoring and reporting, supporting operational and financial performance
• Build and maintain strong relationships across the Integrated Care System (ICS)
• Lead, develop, and inspire a high-performing contracts team
• Ensure compliance with governance, legal, and regulatory frameworks

About You

We are seeking a senior professional with:

• Significant experience in NHS contracting, commissioning, or commercial leadership roles
• Strong working knowledge of the NHS Standard Contract and payment regimes
• Proven experience of leading complex negotiations within a healthcare setting
• Excellent leadership, influencing, and stakeholder engagement skills
• Strong analytical, strategic, and financial management capabilities
• Ability to work effectively across organisational and system boundaries
• Educated to degree level or equivalent experience (postgraduate qualification desirable)

What We Offer

• A key leadership role within a forward-thinking NHS organisation
• Opportunities to influence system-wide change and service transformation
• Flexible and hybrid working arrangements
• Access to NHS pension and a comprehensive benefits package
• Ongoing professional development and leadership support