Management 2000 Business subject sub_topic Contract managers are responsible for administrative activities associated with the handling of company contracts. Individuals in this field deal with activities like invitation to bid, bid evaluation, the awarding of contracts and contract implementation. Students obtaining a contract management degree are able to find employment opportunities as subcontractors, proposal managers, and contract overseers at both the federal and commercial level. The typical salary range for a contracts manager is $79,000 to $103,000 per year. If you are looking for an online contract management school, there are many good options listed below. 0 1 1 2030 <p>In this intertwined global economy, contract management is a more desirable specialty than ever before. Contract managers are key figures in any business that contracts out for supplies, equipment, or services - in other words, just about any business imaginable. They are a crucial part of the supply chain, ensuring that businesses have exactly what they need at an appropriate cost and in an appropriate time frame. </p> <p>Tasks a contract manager would be responsible for include choosing contract management software to facilitate the multi-part services most businesses require; sending out proposal requests for new service bids; comparing and selecting bids; negotiating contracts; and ensuring compliance with existing contracts. The job may also require travel in order to audit vendors and contractors. Contract managers may work with a wide variety of outside entities: construction firms, office equipment suppliers, advertising agencies, information technology contractors, wholesalers, and raw materials distributors, for instance.</p> <p>In an era when workers and goods are readily available from every corner of the globe, it is the contract manager's job to discern where the best value lies, and ensure that contracts are negotiated and followed appropriately. Purchasing agents and human resource managers (who oversee employment contracts) share similar skills. A contract manager often deals with both the supply of goods and the management of outside service providers. Typical employers include large corporations, mid-size businesses, and various departments of the federal government, as well as state and local governments.</p> <b>Contract Management Education</b> <p>Depending on an individual's interests and career path, he or she may rise to a contract management position from elsewhere in a company, or may be trained on the job. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, competition for high-level contract management positions (and other administrative services jobs) will be keen. While entry-level jobs are not expected to be as competitive, a contract management degree can make a job seeker in this field stand out from the crowd. Those who choose to continue their education with a master's in contract management or an M.B.A. will also have an advantage in the field. </p> <p>When selecting a contract management school, prospective students should seek programs that offer courses in topics such as contract principles, acquisition planning, finance, international contracting, supply chain management, information technology and legal issues such as intellectual property, dispute resolution, and regulatory matters.</p> <p>In addition to degree programs in contract management, continuing education certifications are also available through the National Contract Management Association. These certifications are designed to highlight an individual's expertise in federal contracts, commercial contracts, or both. </p> <b>Earning Potential</b> <p>Salaries for contract management positions vary depending on the size of the employer and the requirements of a particular job. According to the National Contract Management Association, the median salary of those who responded to a salary survey in 2007 was $85,800. </p> <p>While in some regards, contract management has been made easier thanks to a globally available workforce and the efficiencies of modern technology, new challenges are evolving as well. The ease of outsourcing, for example, demands specialized knowledge of international contractors not previously necessary. Good contract managers will continue to be in demand as companies seek to offset their costs amid shifting economic times. </p> <b>Article References</b><br/><br/> National Contract Management Association<br/> <a href="http://www.ncmahq.org/" target="_blank">http://www.ncmahq.org/</a><br/> <a href="http://www.ncmahq.org/Careers/content.cfm?ItemNumber=3745&navItemNumber=3746" target="_blank">http://www.ncmahq.org/Careers/content.cfm?ItemNumber=3745&navItemNumber=3746</a><br/> <a href="http://prod.www.ncmahq.rd.net/NewProfessionals/content.cfm?ItemNumber=956" target="_blank">http://prod.www.ncmahq.rd.net/NewProfessionals/content.cfm?ItemNumber=956</a><br/><br/> U.S. Department of Labor<br/> <a href="http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos023.htm" target="_blank">http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos023.htm</a><br/> <a href="http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos002.htm" target="_blank">http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos002.htm</a><br/><br/> International Association for Contract and Commercial Management<br/> <a href="http://www.iaccm.com/" target="_blank">http://www.iaccm.com/</a><br/><br/> The Aberdeen Group<br/> <a href="http://www.aberdeen.com/summary/report/other/BPinCM_092904a.asp" target="_blank">http://www.aberdeen.com/summary/report/other/BPinCM_092904a.asp</a><br/><br/> contract-management Contract Management Contract Management 2015, 2020, 2075, 2085, 2100, 2115, 2120, 2125, 2130, 2135, 2145, 2240 1 0