Developing a Career Path in Contract Management

Are you someone who is detail-oriented and likes to dive into diverse subjects? Do you enjoy writing and editing documents for clarity and meaning? Do you spend time planning where you consider what you want and how to avoid hurdles that could get in the way? Do you enjoy working with others to find solutions that work for all?

If this sound like you, a career in contract management could be right up your alley.

Demand for Contract Managers

Organizations purchase goods, services and construction, but it takes time and skilled resources to read and understand the purchase contract. They need people who can:

• read contract documents, understand what they say, and flag anything that is vague, unclear or may cause an issue;
• work well with others who may have different opinions and motivations to mutually agree on the path forward;
• build positive business relationships while working through issues and concerns; and
• recognize quality and performance issues that can be linked back to the contract.

Looking at just two sources – LinkedIn and Indeed – there are about 4000 contract management positions currently available across Canada. Canada’s Job Bank site shows, by province, what the job prospects are for contract managers and the wages you can expect. In September 2025, BC, Manitoba, Nova Scotia, Quebec and Saskatchewan were all rated as having moderate or good prospects, with salaries that range between $24 and $90.87 per hour. Add to this that 42% of those currently employed in these roles are 50 or older, and the prospects are only going to get better over the next few years as these people retire.

Getting Started

As with any career, the challenge is getting started. Most job openings ask for experience, which no one has when first launching their career. So, what can you do if this is new to you?
There are many ways to get started in contract management, so don’t expect a roadmap that steps you through “the way”. Instead, think of ways that you can begin working with contracts, which include the following:

1. Take classes that will develop your skills and understanding of contract management. Look up what’s available and register. If your time is limited (and whose isn’t), look for classes that you can take one at a time that will lead to certification or a diploma. Even if you are partway through the program, you may find that working on your education is enough to get hiring managers interested in you.
2. Volunteer with a non-profit organization that has contracts (most do!) and see if you can work in their finance or procurement area. Since you’re not being paid, they will be willing to train you, and you can use this a practical experience on your resume.
3. Take an entry-level position that administers contracts, as many of these opportunities require skills that you likely already have (e.g. computer skills, filing, etc.). This gives you practical experience, and you can learn about what can go wrong with contracts. No one will mind (and in fact, many will be more than pleased) if you take on a bit more than administrative duties once you’ve been in your position for a while. Many of us started our careers this way!
4. If you work for a larger organization or public sector entity, look for temporary assignments to fill in for a contract manager’s absence (e.g. long vacation, maternity leave, etc.). These competitions are often limited to those who already work there, and hiring managers will often take on someone who has less experience but shows aptitude to learn.
5. Don’t be deterred by a job opportunity that asks for more experience than you have – apply anyways! Many employers will consider someone with less experience if you can demonstrate your determination and interest in the field and their organization.

Middle of Your Career

Some of you may already be in a contract management position, but perhaps you’re feeling that your career has stalled. You’ve been working on the same kinds of contracts (e.g. the same industries, similar dollar values, etc.), and you’d like an opportunity to work on something more challenging. What can you do to get to the next level?

1. With your supervisor’s permission, volunteer on a team that is planning a large and complex contract. Be willing to take on any role for this team, including those that you may feel overqualified to do. The intent here is to listen in and be part of conversations that tackle the complexities of the project. Not only will you learn from those who are doing this level of contract management, but you’re also showing your ambition to take on more difficult projects.
2. Look for temporary assignments that your organization may offer that includes managing the more complex contracts. These opportunities are tailor made for anyone who has some, but not all the experience the position requires. Hiring managers are usually very willing to provide training or mentorship to get someone who is motivated to grow into the job.
3. Apply for any opening within and outside of your organization that manages more complex contracts. Your years of contract management experience are valuable, even if you have not yet managed the more complicated contracts. Hiring managers often will hire someone with less experience, particularly for a skill set that is in high demand.

Experienced Contract Managers

As a final word, if you have experience managing complex, high value and sometimes volatile contracts, consider what you can do to help those who are motivated to advance their contract management careers. Mentoring less experienced staff can be very rewarding for the mentor as well as the mentee. You’ll also have the satisfaction of knowing that, when the time comes for you to leave for the next chapter in your life, you’ve left a legacy that benefits those still in your organization.

Written by:  Liz Busch’s