Under the direction of the Executive Director of Policy and Controls, and guidance from the Sr Legal Counsel and Legal Counsel, the Contract Specialist is responsible for reviewing, analyzing, and managing contract language from a legal perspective to ensure compliance with legal standards and Chumash Enterprises policies. This role focuses on contract oversight, negotiation, and administration while working collaboratively with internal departments and external parties to minimize Enterprise’s legal and financial risks.

• Reviews, analyzes, and negotiates contract terms and conditions to ensure alignment with legal standards and company policies objectives; makes recommendations for contract modifications and improvements.
• Prepares legal agreements using templates previously approved by the Legal Officer; drafts contract amendments, addendums, and other legal documents as needed to support business operations.
• Works closely with the Legal department while maintaining autonomy to approve contracts within established thresholds; consults with the Legal Counsel and Sr Legal Counsel or designated delegate for high-value, complex, or non-standard agreements requiring additional legal review.
• Maintains centralized oversight of all organizational contracts including creating and managing a comprehensive contract repository, tracking renewal dates and key milestones, and ensuring ongoing compliance with internal policies and regulatory requirements.
• Serves as primary liaison between departments during contract negotiations in collaboration with the Contract Administrator; facilitates clear communication among all stakeholders to ensure their interests are properly represented and protected.
• Conducts thorough due diligence reviews of potential contracting parties including research, risk assessment, and documentation of findings to support informed decision-making.
• Monitors contract performance and compliance throughout the contract lifecycle; identifies potential issues, breaches, or areas of concern and takes appropriate corrective action.
• Develops and maintains contract management procedures, workflows, and best practices; continuously evaluates processes for enhancement opportunities and effectiveness.
• Provides contract-related training and guidance to staff across departments to ensure consistent understanding of contractual obligations and procedures.
• Assists with preparing contract-related reports, summaries, and exhibits for management meetings and regulatory submissions.
• Stays current with relevant laws, regulations, and industry best practices affecting contract management through continuing education and professional development.
• Upholds a work environment that promotes teamwork, partnership, recognition, mutual respect, collaboration, while role modeling the company values, behaviors, and culture of One.Team.Chumash.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

• Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration/Legal Studies or related field, and/or Paralegal Certification.
• Three years experience in contract administration, legal support, or related compliance operations.
• Experience in contract negotiation and legal document preparation highly desirable.
• Paralegal certification or contract management certification preferred.
• Proficiency in computers, including Microsoft Office Suite, contract management software, database applications, e-mail, and Internet.
• Must apply for, receive, and maintain a Gaming License from the Tribal Gaming Agency.
• Native American hiring preference applies.
• Legal Analysis and Research: Ability to interpret contract language, legal terminology, and regulatory requirements; research legal precedents and applicable laws; analyze risk factors and make informed recommendations.
• Attention to Detail: Demonstrates meticulous attention to contract terms, conditions, and legal requirements; identifies potential issues, inconsistencies, or areas of concern that could impact Enterprise.
• Negotiation Skills: Effectively negotiates contract terms and conditions while balancing organizational interests with business relationship maintenance; resolves disputes and conflicts professionally.
• Communication and Interpersonal Skills: Builds and maintains positive working relationships with internal departments, external vendors, and legal counsel; facilitates effective communication during contract processes.
• Organizational and Time Management: Manages multiple contracts simultaneously while meeting deadlines; prioritizes tasks effectively and maintains organized documentation systems.
• Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking: Identifies complex contractual issues and develops practical solutions; anticipates potential problems and implements preventive measures.
• Integrity and Confidentiality: Maintains highest ethical standards when handling sensitive contractual and legal information; exercises sound judgment and discretion.
• Written Communication: Prepares clear, comprehensive, and grammatically correct legal documents, reports, and correspondence using appropriate legal terminology and formatting.
• Adaptability: Adjusts to changing legal requirements, business needs, and organizational priorities while maintaining quality standards.