Contracts Manager

About the Job POSITION OVERVIEW The Contracts Manager protects the University of Minnesota's intellectual property by ensuring the proper agreement is completed before research materials leave the University or University employees discuss their research with outside organizations or individuals. This includes drafting, negotiating, reviewing agreements, and administering execution of agreements. These agreements include Material Transfer Agreements (MTA), Human Derived Material Transfer Agreements, Non–Disclosure Agreements (NDA), Plant Material Testing Agreements (PMTA), IP Waivers, and other agreements as needed. The Contracts Manager works closely with members of the Technology Commercialization Office, research faculty, and outside personnel not associated with University of Minnesota. This position also consults with the Office of General Counsel (OGC) for legal guidance and with Export Controls for agreements with a foreign party. POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES Contracts Management (75%) Work with University researchers and Tech Comm staff to gather information to draft agreements; Follow UMN policies to draft, negotiate, and execute agreements; Provide status and follow up information to researchers and Tech Comm staff; Researches and assists to determine if intellectual property can be transferred; Assess agreement requirements with guidance from OGC, negotiate non–standard agreements; Work with OGC and Tech Comm staff to resolve legal questions regarding provisions in agreements. Database Integrity and Reporting (15%) Create and maintain forms, processes and procedures for the Contracts team; Maintain accuracy of database records for agreements and their related records; Provide timely and accurate reporting of agreements executed and processed; Respond promptly to inquiries on the status of agreements that are being processed. Other Duties as Assigned (10%) Update procedures and processes for the Contracts team, including process improvements; Attend Tech Comm office and team meetings; Represent Tech Comm to other UMN units and other organizations; Supervise student employees. Salary Range: $62,000 – $67,000 The Office of the Vice President for Research (OVPR) and Technology Commercialization endorse a "work with flexibility" approach that offers a welcoming and flexible work environment where everyone is inspired to do their best. Because we are a land–grant institution that serves the state, the University will continue to– in most cases– expect employees to live in Minnesota. This position has been designated as work profile 3. Profile 3 is expected to work on–site one or two days each week. Occasionally, you may be required to be in the office more than two days in a week. Your office location is the McNamara Alumni Center on the University of Minnesota Twin Cities campus. Tech Comm management retains the right to modify flexible work arrangement agreements on a temporary or permanent basis for any reason at any time. Qualifications REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS BA/BS plus two years of related legal administrative experience or a combination of related education and experience to equal six years; Certified paralegal from an accredited program or experience with drafting and executing legal agreements; Strong communication, interpersonal skills, customer service skills and excellent attention to detail; Able to work independently and with others; Able to handle interruptions, prioritize workload, follow–up and meet deadlines; Proficiency using Google products and Microsoft Office (Word, Excel and PowerPoint). PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS: Three or more years of related legal administrative experience or experience with legal agreements; Experience with Material Transfer Agreements and/or Non–disclosure Agreements; Able to work well with diverse populations; Experience working in a higher education setting; Resourceful and proactive when issues and/or emergencies arise; Innovative thinker with strong conceptual and problem–solving skills. About the Department The Contracts Manager position is part of the Technology Commercialization (Tech Comm) office at the University of Minnesota. We help University research move beyond the lab and into the marketplace. Our mission includes: Connecting researchers with companies Licensing technology for the development of new products and services that benefit the public good Fostering economic growth Generating revenue that supports the University's research and education goals Visit our website to learn more! Benefits Working at the University At the University of Minnesota, you'll find a flexible work environment and supportive colleagues who are interested in lifelong learning. We prioritize work–life balance, allowing you to invest in the future of your career and in your life outside of work. The University also offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes: Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree–seeking programs supported by the Regents Scholarship Low–cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts University HSA contributions Disability and employer–paid life insurance Employee wellbeing program Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity Financial counseling services Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefits. How To Apply Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume. Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section. To request an accommodation during the application process, please e–mail or call 624–UOHR (8647). Diversity The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds. The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: . Employment Requirements Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment. Please note: All employees at the University of Minnesota are required to comply with the University's Administrative Policy: COVID–19 Vaccination and Safety Protocol by either providing proof of being fully vaccinated on their first day of employment, or complete a request for an exemption for medical exemption or religious reasons. To learn more please visit: About the U of M The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC) The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world–renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.