Director, Contract Administration

At VIA HFR, we are re-imagining passenger rail service on behalf of the Government of Canada Our goal is to create a new sustainable train network that that will run faster, more often and will be more reliable between Toronto and Québec City. The HFR project is Canada's largest infrastructure project in generations. Are you ready to take on a stimulating and impactful challenge? Look no further: VIA HFR is looking for a Director, Contract Administration.

**The role**

Reporting to the Senior VP, Commercial the Director, Contract Administration, is responsible for establishing, leading, and overseeing HFR’s contract administration function, most particularly the Pre-Development Agreement (PDA) which will govern the Co-Development Phase during which VIA HFR will work in collaboration with the Pre-Developer Partner (PDP) to advance the design of the project, conduct consultations with local communities, Indigenous Communities and stakeholders, obtain a positive Impact Assessment decision, etc. He or she will also support the Commercial team and work in collaboration with the Legal team to develop and negotiate the various agreements governing the execution phase (finalization of the design, construction, operations and maintenance phase).

**The responsibilities**

Implement and manage contract management tools, systems, and procedures, to ensure diligent oversight of PDA Work by VIA HFR.
- Play a crucial role in establishing a collaborative relationship with the PDP.
- Monitor the PDP’s performance (including KPIs) and ensure it adheres to the terms and conditions of the PDA.
- Monitor VIA HFR’s performance and ensure it adheres to the terms and conditions of the PDA.
- Work in collaboration with the Legal team and the Technical team to review and manage change requests, claims, relief event request, etc.
- Track and oversee the financial aspects of the PDA, including budgets, payments, cost variations, etc.
- Ensure the accuracy, completeness and timely review of PDP invoices by the Technical team, and approve invoices from the PDP as per the terms of the PDA.
- Collaborate in the development, negotiation and implementation of the various agreements governing the execution phase.
- Play a crucial role in communicating and coordinating the various PDA requirements as between the various stakeholders of the project, including internal project teams, suppliers, subcontractors, and external partners, as required.
- Identify and mitigate contractual risks associated with the project.
- Support the Legal team with any contractual disputes.
- Prepare detailed briefings and reports on the status of activities for senior management and the Board of Directors.

**The requirements**
- Bachelor’s degree in engineering, business administration or law, or equivalent.
- At least 15 years of relevant experience, including contract management for large-scale infrastructure projects.
- Experience with public private projects (P3) and/or collaborative models (progressive P3, IPD, Alliancing, etc.).
- Ability to build and maintain strong relationships with various stakeholders.
- Excellent negotiation and problem-solving skills.
- Bilingualism (English and French), both spoken and written.

**Interesting Assets**
- Action and results oriented.
- Exceptional judgment and rigor.
- Time-management skills and the ability to meet deadlines.
- Outstanding decision-making skills.
- Respect the organization's ethics and values.

**Why join our innovative team?**
- Group insurance that is fully paid for you and your family, including medical, dental, life, disability, etc.
- A pension plan and saving options (RRSP and TFSA)
- Flexible benefits: access to wellness and health accounts to support your lifestyle
- Vacation based on experience, available as soon as you're hired
- Incentive bonus program
- Work in flexible hybrid mode
- A work environment that encourages initiative, innovation and forward-thinking solutions
- A unique opportunity to craft the future of transporation in Canada
- You can learn more about the whole project on our VIA HFR webpage.

**We strive to create strong and diverse teams**

Please let us know if you require any adjustments during the recruitment process. We will do our utmost to provide you with a fair and pleasant experience, while keeping any adjustments confidential.