Director Government Contracts

Job Title: Director, Government Contracts Management

Location: Gulfport, MS/Hybrid

Position Summary

The Director of Government Contracts Management serves as the senior contracts leader, overseeing all government contract administration activities across assigned government programs. This role is critical in supporting business growth, risk management, and operational success by ensuring effective contract development, negotiation, compliance, and lifecycle management. The director ensures alignment among customers, subcontractors, and internal stakeholders across all operational sites.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Oversight

• Lead and manage a team of contract professionals, fostering high performance and regulatory compliance.
• Set team priorities, delegate responsibilities, and promote ongoing development through mentoring and training.
• Collaborate with Human Resources on staffing plans, performance evaluations, and professional development initiatives.

Contract Administration & Compliance

• Oversee the full lifecycle of contract management: drafting, negotiation, administration, and closeout.
• Act as the primary point of contact for contract-related issues with customers and key subcontractors.
• Ensure contract terms and activities adhere to applicable regulations (e.g., FAR/DFARS) and internal standards.
• Interpret complex contractual provisions, providing risk and compliance guidance to leadership.
• Maintain accurate contract records aligned with Finance and Program Management systems.

Strategic Support & Risk Management

• Support pricing and estimating efforts by reviewing and negotiating contract terms and conditions.
• Manage contract changes, modifications, and the resolution of disputes, claims, and audits.
• Monitor and incorporate regulatory updates and industry best practices into contracts strategy and compliance processes.
• Support business development through strategic contract structuring, including joint ventures and teaming arrangements.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Work closely with Legal, Finance, Operations, Supply Chain, and Program Management teams to ensure effective contract execution.
• Ensure timely communication and coordination across all internal and external stakeholders.
• Participate in process improvement and compliance initiatives, including Estimating System reviews and DFARS-related efforts.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in business administration, Law, or related field (Master's or JD preferred).
• Minimum 15 years of progressive experience in government and/or commercial contract management, including at least 5 years in a leadership role.
• Demonstrated success negotiating complex contracts and mitigating contract risk.
• Strong leadership, communication, and cross-functional collaboration skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and contract lifecycle management tools.
• In-depth understanding of federal procurement regulations (FAR/DFARS), contract law, and cost/pricing principles preferred.

Additional Requirements

• Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD security clearance if required.