Commercial Contracts Manager Uk Visa Sponsorship
Job Description
Location: Brighton, UK
Hours: Full-time (up to 37.5 hours/week). Flexible working requests will be considered, subject to business need.
Contract Type: Permanent
Salary: Grade 7, £38,249 to £45,413 per annum (pro rata if part-time)
Closing Date: 9 June 2025 at 01:59 (BST)
Interviews: Week commencing 23 June 2025
Start Date: As soon as possible
About the Role
We are seeking a Commercial Contracts Manager to join the Contracts team within the University of Sussex’s dynamic Research and Enterprise Services Division. This is a key role supporting the delivery of the University’s research, knowledge exchange, and innovation goals—particularly through industry-sponsored research activity.
You will primarily provide contract support to the Innovation and Business Partnerships team, while also collaborating with research development partners and academic researchers across the University. Your responsibilities will include drafting, reviewing, and negotiating a variety of commercial and collaborative agreements, including multi-party consortium contracts. You will also liaise with external funders and partners, attend project meetings, and offer clear, pragmatic advice after evaluating contractual risks.
About You
We’re looking for a candidate with:
- A proven track record in drafting, reviewing, and negotiating commercial or industry-sponsored research contracts
- Strong knowledge of intellectual property rights, contract law, data protection, and export control regulations
- Experience working with multi-party and consortium agreements
- The ability to manage competing priorities and provide expert advice across multiple stakeholders
- Excellent communication and relationship management skills
- A proactive, solution-oriented approach, comfortable working independently and as part of a team
You should be educated to degree level or equivalent, or possess substantial relevant experience—ideally gained within higher education, research organisations, industry, or the legal sector.
About the Division
The Research and Innovation Division drives the University’s research ambitions, supporting academics to deliver impactful projects and generate new knowledge that makes a difference globally.
Last year alone, the division submitted 681 funding bids, received 230 awards, and initiated 227 research projects. The team’s strategic focus includes interdisciplinarity, research integrity, and international reputation.
Learn more: Research and Innovation at Sussex
Why Join Sussex?
Located beside the South Downs National Park, the University of Sussex offers a 150-acre green campus just minutes from Falmer train station, with easy access to public transport and cycle routes. We offer a Cycle to Work Scheme and support environmentally conscious commuting.
Sussex is a world-renowned, research-intensive university that thrives because of its people. Whether you’re in academic or professional services, every member of our community contributes to the University’s success.
- Learn more about our reward and benefits
- Discover our commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion
Additional Information
- Informal enquiries: Contact Denise Forbes at Denise.Forbes@sussex.ac.uk
- Visa Sponsorship: This role may be eligible for sponsorship. Please check our Skilled Worker Visa guidance
- Please note: All work must be carried out within the UK. Roles below Grade 5.3 or £30,960 may not qualify for visa sponsorship.
Ready to apply?
Visit our vacancies page to view the full job description and submit your application.
We actively welcome applicants from all backgrounds and communities.
