Contract Manager (6 months)

JobsCloseBy Editorial Insights

UNStudio seeks a Contract Manager for a six month onsite role in Amsterdam to join the Legal team and lead the lifecycle of commercial contracts. You will draft, negotiate, and implement service contracts, architectural agreements, NDAs and joint ventures, while managing risk and due diligence and developing templates and workflows. The ideal candidate holds a law degree, 5+ years in contract management or commercial law (AEC preferred), strong international contract knowledge including FIDIC or DNR, and fluency in English with additional languages a plus. To apply, tailor a concise CV and results oriented cover letter that shows independent negotiation wins, cross-border coordination, and measurable outcomes; highlight relevant projects and readiness for extension; confirm willingness to work onsite in Amsterdam.

About UNS 

UNS is one of the most sustainable and innovative architecture firms in the world, dedicated to creating future-proof, human-centric designs. With a global presence and a commitment to excellence, we strive to push the boundaries of architecture and design. 

Job Overview 

UNS is looking for an experienced Contract Manager (6 months) to join our Legal team. In this role, you will be the backbone of our commercial engagements, ensuring that our architectural and design projects are built on a solid legal foundation.

You will act as a strategic partner to our global studios, balancing legal security with commercial viability. You will not only manage the lifecycle of our contracts but also drive the professionalization of our legal workflows, ensuring alignment across multiple jurisdictions.

Contract Drafting & Negotiation

• Draft, review, and negotiate a wide range of commercial agreements with a focus on service contracts, architectural consultancy agreements, RFPs, NDAs, and joint venture arrangements.

• Independently lead contract negotiations, ensuring all agreements align with UNS’s internal policies, risk appetite, and strategic objectives.

• Provide pragmatic, jurisdiction-specific legal advice on contractual obligations, local regulations, and enforceability.

Risk Management & Compliance

• Identify, assess, and mitigate legal and contractual risks in a proactive and timely manner.

• Conduct KYC (Know Your Customer) and due diligence reviews in accordance with company policy and regulatory requirements.

• Balance legal exposure with commercial reality to support the studio’s project goals.

Process Optimization & Strategy

• Oversee the end-to-end contract administration workflow, driving the continuous improvement and professionalization of contract management processes.

• Develop and implement standardized contract templates, clauses, and best-practice guidelines to enhance efficiency and consistency across the firm.

• Report directly to the Head of Legal on key risks, workflow status, and strategic initiatives.

Collaboration & External Liaison

• Act as the primary liaison between internal departments, subsidiaries, and external stakeholders to facilitate seamless contract execution.

• Serve as the key interface with external counsel, engaging them as required and effectively managing the flow of instructions and advice.

• Collaborate closely with local counsel and stakeholders to navigate legal matters spanning multiple jurisdictions.

Requirements

Qualifications and Skills 

• Educational Background: Law degree (LL.B or Master’s in Law).

• Experience: 5+years of experience in contract management or commercial law, preferably within the Architecture, Engineering, or Construction (AEC) industry.

• Knowledge: Strong understanding of international contract law and construction contracts (e.g., FIDIC, DNR) is highly desirable.

Competencies:

• Excellent negotiation skills with the ability to close deals independently.

• Strong analytical skills to assess complex legal documents.

• Ability to communicate legal concepts clearly to non-legal stakeholders.

• Fluency in English is required; knowledge of [Dutch/German/Arabic] is an asset.

What We Offer 

• A collaborative and innovative work environment. 

• Opportunities for professional growth and development. 

• Competitive salary and benefits package. 

• The chance to contribute to groundbreaking projects with a global impact. 

• International environment, however, you can practice your Dutch within the team

• 30 days of annual leave

• Learning budget to improve yourself

• Hybrid work schedule

• Active, open atmosphere full of enthusiastic people

How to Apply 

Please note: this role is coming with a 6-month contract with a possibility of extension. 

If you are passionate about supporting a world-class organization and have the skills and experience we are looking for, we would love to hear from you.