Contracts Manager (Prolaio)

Prolaio is seeking an experienced Contracts Manager whose primary role will be to manage the complete contract lifecycle for Prolaio, including all aspects of contract creation, processing, drafting and administration for Prolaio. Employed by Kardigan and embedded within Prolaio, this role will support other initiatives, projects and programs within the broader Legal Department as requested. We are seeking an exceptional candidate with strong contract administration experience and attention to detail, who can collaborate cross-functionally, negotiate agreements, and communicate clearly and effectively. Attention to detail is essential in this role. You will join our fast-paced legal team, reporting to our Vice President, Corporate Law. This is a highly visible position within the companies as you will interface directly with business stakeholders and leadership.

Position Title: Manager, Contracts

Department: Legal

Reports To: VP, Corporate Law

Location: Chicago, IL - Hybrid Model (2-3 days a week)

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Contract Lifecycle Management
  • Independently draft, review, and negotiate a broad range of contracts including service agreements, consulting agreements, NDAs, vendor and supplier contracts, and statements of work (SOWs).
  • Translate business needs into clear, legally sound contract language, balancing risk mitigation with operational flexibility.
  • Ensure contractual terms comply with applicable laws, company policies, and industry regulations.
  • Assist with the implementation of a contract lifecycle management (CLM) tool).
  • Track key contractual obligations, renewals, and deadlines.
  • Identify, assess, and escalate legal and business risks when necessary.
  • Drive collaboration with a wide range of internal and external stakeholders, including vendors, service providers, consultants, clinical sites, and collaboration partners.
• Contract Operations & Reporting
  • Manage contracts and process form requests from intake to execution and track Manage contracts from intake to execution, tracking status and communicating risks, priorities, and solutions to stakeholders at all levels.
  • Develop and prepare key performance metrics and generate periodic reports on contract management.
  • Coordinate and manage execution, renewals, and terminations of contracts.
  • Drive continuous improvement initiatives to optimize contracting processes, workflows, operational efficiency, and cross-functional alignment.
• Business Partnership & Training
  • Serve as the primary liaison for internal partners and stakeholders on contract negotiations, processes, and operations, including anticipating contracting needs and providing guidance.
  • Partner with senior business leaders and cross-functional stakeholders to support strategic contracting initiatives and organizational priorities.
• General
  • Monitor contract-related activities for compliance with internal policies, industry regulations, and applicable laws.
  • Support special projects and contract-related initiatives.
  • Perform other duties as requested, including initiatives supporting the broader Kardigan Legal Department.

Qualifications and Preferred Skills

• Bachelor's degree preferred; Paralegal certification preferred.
• At least 7 years of relevant experience with a minimum of 5 years of contract administration within the pharmaceutical, life sciences, or medical device industry.
• Proven excellence in contract drafting and negotiation, with a solid foundation in biotech/pharma/med device contract terms and best practices, and the ability to manage complex agreements independently.
• Proficient in contract lifecycle and procurement processes, including experience with contract lifecycle management systems, e-signature platforms, and collaboration platforms; previous CLM implementation and administration experience strongly preferred.
• Strong organizational and planning skills with the ability to triage, prioritize, and effectively advance multiple simultaneous projects in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent issue spotting, problem-solving, and communication skills, with the ability to collaborate with individuals at all levels inside and outside the organization.
• Skilled in Microsoft Office Suite, PowerPoint, SharePoint, Excel, and Adobe Acrobat.
• Commitment to integrity, ethical conduct, and handling confidential information with discretion.
• Meticulous attention to detail; able to work independently with good judgment and a strong team-oriented mindset.

Pay range