Contract Manager

About Us

Established in 2001, MES is the nation’s largest provider of PPE, fire apparatus, uniforms, and services to first responders. With over 25 locations, MES is the most trusted source of equipment and service for firefighters, law enforcement, and EMTs. Our dedicated team of over 300 sales representatives and certified service technicians allows us to bring unparalleled quality and service to our industry. MES supports its customers with innovative digital commerce solutions and a nationwide warehousing system with three strategically located hubs that carry thousands of products representing the best brands on the market.

MES offers a great work environment, professional development, challenging careers, and competitive compensation. MES is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national or ethnic origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, protected veteran status, or other characteristics protected by law.

MES will only employ those legally authorized to work in the United States for this opening. Any offer of employment is conditioned upon the successful completion of a pre-employment screening.

Job Description Summary

The Contract Manager is responsible for proactively directing, managing, negotiating, and administering all facets of MES Life Safety’s bids and contracts at the national, state, and local government levels. This role requires a self-starter with strong analytical skills, the ability to work independently, and expertise in Excel to support contract management and financial reporting. The Contract Manager will collaborate closely with the Vice President of Sales Programs, regional sales teams, and field operations to ensure compliance, efficiency, and optimal contract performance.

This position is based at our corporate headquarters in Miami, FL and requires a high level of initiative in developing data-driven insights to enhance contract strategy.

Role Responsibilities:

Contract Administration & Management

• Independently review and negotiate municipal contracts, as well as national, state, and local cooperative contracts.
• Conduct in-depth data analysis of contract terms, pricing schedules, and compliance requirements.
• Maintain an organized system for tracking and managing contract deadlines, renewals, and modifications.
• Utilize Excel and contract management software to track contract performance metrics and generate detailed reports.
• Develop contract summaries and risk assessments to ensure strategic decision-making.

Financial Management & Reporting

• Oversee the financial aspects of cooperative contracts, including budgeting, invoicing, and financial reporting.
• Generate and analyze Excel-based reports to monitor and report contract spending, performance trends, and compliance gaps. 
• Track and submit accurate financial documentation to agencies and internal stakeholders.
• Ensure financial alignment between contract terms and company objectives, providing data-driven recommendations.

Documentation, Compliance & Risk Management

• Maintain detailed records of contract negotiations, modifications, and performance metrics.
• Develop and manage a centralized reporting system for contract compliance and risk assessment.
• Conduct regular audits to ensure adherence to contracting regulations and company policies.
• Identify and mitigate potential risks related to contract execution and financial performance.
• Establish and refine contract management procedures to optimize efficiency.

Collaboration & Process Improvement

• Work closely with Legal, Finance, Procurement, IT, and Project Management teams to ensure cohesive contract execution and identify opportunities for AI-driven automation and process optimization. 
• Partner with Marketing, Sales, and Field Operations to coordinate training, marketing materials, and commercial contract strategies. 
• Lead the evaluation, implementation, and continuous improvement of AI-powered tools that enhance contract review, compliance monitoring, redlining, and response development. 
• Develop standardized AI-assisted workflows to improve the speed, accuracy, and consistency of the contract lifecycle while maintaining appropriate human oversight. 
• Establish governance, quality controls, and prompt libraries to ensure AI-generated outputs comply with company policies, legal standards, and contractual requirements. 
• Monitor emerging AI technologies and recommend new capabilities that improve contract management, risk identification, reporting, and overall operational performance. 
• Lead or participate in cross-functional initiatives that enhance contract workflows, report accuracy, compliance, and overall operational efficiency.

 Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree preferred (business administration, contract management, law, or a related field).
• 3–5 years of experience in contract management, procurement, or contract administration.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel (pivot tables, VLOOKUP, data analysis, and reporting functions).
• Strong ability to work independently and take initiative in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills with an eye for detail.
• Experience managing multiple contracts simultaneously while meeting deadlines.
• Strong negotiation and communication skills.
• Familiarity with contract management software and reporting tools.

Role Expectations

• Attend and complete contract-specific yearly seminar training.
• Participate in state- and local-required contract training.
• Take ownership of data reporting, compliance tracking, and process improvements.

Pay and Benefits

• Compensation based on experience.
• Comprehensive benefits package, including:
  • 401(k) with match
  • Paid Holidays
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Health, dental, and vision insurance
  • Flexible spending account
  • Health savings account
  • Disability insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Employee assistance program