Course Overview:
This five-day intensive course is designed to provide participants with a solid foundation in contract management, emphasizing the role of contracts as significant assets that must be strategically managed to maximize efficiency. Attendees will develop practical skills and gain valuable insights to manage contracts effectively, improve supplier relationships, and mitigate risks associated with supplier defaults. The course combines theoretical knowledge, best practice guidance, and hands-on exercises to ensure that participants leave with a comprehensive understanding of contract management processes and strategies.

Course Objectives:
Understand current best practices in contract management for optimizing efficiency and delivering value.
Develop essential contract management skills to achieve organizational objectives.
Gain insights into the skills and resources needed to manage contracts across their lifecycle.
Learn prioritisation techniques and approaches tailored to specific contract types.
Identify risks related to supplier defaults and explore remedies for managing these challenges.
Obtain practical guidance on implementing best practices in contract management.

Day 1: Foundations of Contract Management
Introduction to Contract Management
Overview of contract management as a strategic asset for organizations.
Understanding the Contract Lifecycle
Examining the stages of a contract from planning through execution and closeout.
Key Roles in Contract Management
Overview of responsibilities and accountabilities across the organization.
Activities: Group discussions, case studies on contract lifecycle stages.

Day 2: Best Practices for Driving Efficiency and Value
Current Best Practices in Contract Management
Exploring strategies for maximising value through effective contract management.
Delivering Value for Money
Understanding cost management, efficiency drivers, and value-added elements.
Performance Measurement and Evaluation
Establishing metrics and KPIs for contract success.
Activities: Practical exercises on setting performance metrics and value assessment.

Day 3: Skill Development for Effective Contract Management
Essential Skills for Contract Managers
Developing negotiation, communication, and analytical skills.
Conflict Resolution in Contract Management
Approaches to resolving disputes and maintaining supplier relationships.
Tailoring Contract Approaches Based on Contract Type
Strategies for prioritizing tasks based on contract complexity and scope.
Activities: Role-play in negotiation scenarios, conflict management case studies.

Day 4: Managing Contract Risks and Supplier Performance
Risk Management in Contracts
Identifying potential risks, including supplier default and mitigation techniques.
Supplier Performance Monitoring
Tracking supplier performance to ensure compliance and contract adherence.
Remedies for Supplier Default
Available options for managing underperforming suppliers effectively.
Activities: Scenario-based risk assessment and group discussions on default remedies.

Day 5: Implementing Best Practices and Course Wrap-Up
Best Practices in Contract Management
Guidance on implementing contract management improvements in daily operations.
Developing a Contract Management Plan
Building a simple yet effective contract management strategy tailored to your organisation.
Course Review and Final Assessment
Summarising key takeaways and evaluating participant understanding through a practical assessment.
Activities: Case study analysis, contract management plan development, final quiz, and Q&A session.