Contracts Specialist Job Details | TransAlta

SENIOR CONTRACTS SPECIALIST

WHO WE ARE

“Energizing the Future.”

TransAlta owns, operates, and develops a diverse fleet of electrical generation assets in Canada, the United States, and Australia, providing municipalities, industries, and businesses with safe, low-cost, and reliable clean electricity. For over 111 years, TransAlta has been a responsible operator and proud community member where its employees work and live. We are committed to fostering a dynamic, productive, and safe work environment. Our employees contribute to a diverse, open, and transparent culture with clear accountabilities, strong leadership, and challenging opportunities for personal career growth.

For more information about TransAlta, visit our website at, www.transalta.com.

ABOUT THE ROLE

We are currently seeking a Contracts Specialist to join our Growth Supply Chain Management team. Reporting to the Manager SCM Growth, this position is full-time and based in our Head Office in downtown Calgary. This role will require you to collaborate as part of an integrated team to support the early contract development, planning along with construction and EPC contract execution. A key focus will be on contract formation, negotiations with major vendors and construction contractors.

You will build key relationships, provide structure to the contracting process and deliver value to the Growth suite of projects. You will support the development of contracting strategies in the Development stage which will address the unique and customized needs of each individual project. This includes the development of Contracting Plans and strategies for each unique project.

The Contracts Specialist provides commercial support, leadership and supplier relationship management that optimizes TransAlta's major initiatives and spend across the organization. The successful incumbent will have a demonstrated understanding and experience in contract development, formation, administration along with managing strategic supplier relationships.

WHAT YOU WILL DO

• Lead the contract development and negotiations with major suppliers and contractors to minimize risk and maximize value to the business (includes development and negotiation of contract terms and conditions and engagement with legal counsel and business partners).
• Advise project leadership and management as to potential risks within contracts.
• Develop, lead and negotiate strategic project agreements and implement supply arrangements that meet operational and corporate objectives (includes preparation of bids/proposals, RFX, contract term sheets, risk mitigation strategies etc.).
• Initiate and manage medium to high risk/spend transactions and negotiations that support ongoing projects/growth initiatives or represent a strategic alliance with suppliers (examples include professional service agreements, long term service & maintenance agreements, major equipment supply, letter of intent, and EPC contracts) and EPC agreements that support engineering, and construction.
• Provide process leadership to cross-functional teams to identify opportunities to strategically source externally purchased goods and services in order to maximize value to TransAlta by reducing transactional, service and material costs.
• Maintain awareness of market and industry trends and conditions that affect TransAlta’s major suppliers, cost of goods or pricing.
• Identify new strategic sourcing opportunities and assist internal and external customers with supplier qualification process.
• Facilitate regular supplier business and/or strategic reviews and manage major supplier relationships to lead continuous improvement initiatives.
• Assist with project development planning (including growth initiatives) by analyzing and negotiating commercial offerings and arrangements with suppliers.
• Manage the resolution of commercial and legal issues with legal counsel including participation in third party dispute resolution, arbitrations and negotiation of settlements.

WHAT WE NEED FROM YOU

• Undergraduate degree in supply chain management, business, economics, law, or equivalent.
• Supply Chain Management Professional (SCMP) designation through PMAC/SCMA or working towards accreditation would be an asset to this position.
• 10+ years of progressive procurement, commercial or contracting experience coupled with direct experience in major contract negotiation and strategic supplier management.
• Demonstrated experience in contract development including solid understanding of legal terms and conditions.
• Experience developing creative and innovative approaches to procurement and other business issues along with commensurate risk management skills.
• Demonstrated ability in developing negotiating strategies and in negotiating major supplier agreements with performance guarantees, liquidated damages, indemnity clauses and other service and quality expectations.
• An energy and desire to be involved in the renewable industry at the cutting edge of new forms of energy.
• A strong understanding of Owner Engineer and EPC contract models along with all commercial compensation structures.
• Ability to lead high level negotiations and structure discussions to promote and ensure TransAlta’s value along with safety and quality.

OTHER REQUIREMENTS

• The successful candidate will be requested to provide a driving abstract as there may be the use of company vehicles for site visits.

WHAT WE OFFER

• Competitive base salary.
• Annual incentive program.
• Pension plan with company-matching options.
• Flexible benefits for you and your family.
• Vacation and personal days.

** Please note that our total rewards program is subject to change based on provincial or federal eligibility and legislation, and as per the final terms and conditions of the offer of employment.

To learn more about how we can energize your future, check out our new Employee Experience Booklet.

Become part of our TransAlta team today! We look forward to reviewing your application.

Don’t meet every single requirement? Studies have shown that women and people of color are less likely to apply for a job unless they meet every single qualification. At TransAlta, we are dedicated to building an inclusive, diverse workforce where you can show up every day as your true, authentic self. So, if you’re excited about this role but your qualifications and experience don’t quite tick every box, we encourage you to apply anyways. You might just be the candidate we are looking for.

Our Commitment to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion

It is our collective mission to ensure that every single employee feels a sense of inclusion and belonging and can show up to work as their true authentic self. TransAlta is committed to hiring a diverse workforce including women, Indigenous Peoples, persons with disabilities, members of visible minorities, and members of the LGBTQ2+ community. TransAlta believes that diversity enhances the quality of its performance, is an essential element of effective corporate governance, and cultivates a strong workplace culture.