Metro - Construction Contract Lead

Microsoft Cloud Operations and Innovation (CO&I) is the team behind the cloud.  Within CO&I, the Global Contract Management (GCM) team is responsible for delivering core datacenter infrastructure for Microsoft’s cloud business. The MS portfolio consists of complex, multi-disciplinary, large scale, multi-year datacenter construction and lease projects.  

We are seeking a high‑performing Metro - Construction Contract Lead to join our Contracts team and support the delivery of complex construction projects. This role is responsible for end‑to‑end contract management, spanning pre‑award support through post‑award execution and closeout. The successful candidate will bring strong commercial judgement, disciplined change control practices, and the ability to operate confidently in a fast‑paced construction environment.

Microsoft’s mission is to empower every person and every organization on the planet to achieve more. As employees we come together with a growth mindset, innovate to empower others and collaborate to realize our shared goals. Each day we build on our values of respect, integrity, and accountability to create a culture of inclusion where everyone can thrive at work and beyond.” 

This role is hybrid-site based location and will be based out of Toronto, Canada 

Relocation support will be provided, and successful candidates must ​relocate or reside within 50 miles of the site office location.  

Pre‑Award & Contract Set‑Up

• Support RFP readiness by reviewing contract documents for completeness and commercial alignment
• Coordinate timely issue of RFPs in line with project schedules
• Drive closure of technical and commercial deviations prior to contract award
• Contribute to bid evaluations, contract strategy development, and negotiation preparation
• Coordinate closely with cost, procurement, and project teams to support award decisions

Post‑Award Contract Management

• Manage contracts through execution, ensuring compliance with contractual terms and governance requirements
• Lead administration of change orders and variations, maintaining clear entitlement positions
• Review and approve contractual correspondence, including notices, non‑compliance letters, and formal communications
• Monitor contractor performance against contractual obligations, milestones, and commercial commitments
• Support resolution of billing, valuation, and payment issues in collaboration with cost teams

Change, Claims & Risk Management

• Coordinate review of Time Impact Analyses (TIAs), extension‑of‑time requests, and schedule recovery measures
• Support dispute avoidance and resolution, including escalation of complex commercial issues where required
• Identify and proactively mitigate contractual and commercial risks throughout project delivery
• Ensure compliance with insurance, bonding, and other contractual risk controls

Stakeholder & Site Engagement

• Lead regular commercial / contract review meetings with contractors and internal stakeholders
• Act as a key commercial interface between site teams, the Contracts function, and cross‑functional partners
• Provide clear, structured commercial updates to the Contracts team and project leadership

Closeout & Continuous Improvement

• Manage contract closeout activities, ensuring all contractual deliverables and obligations are satisfied
• Support final account settlement and documentation handover
• Drive continuous improvement in contract management processes, tools, and execution practices

Required Qualifications

• Master's Degree in Engineering, Supply Chain, Data Analytics, Business, Finance or related field AND 4+ years experience in project management, engineering, and contracting and legal

  • OR Bachelor's Degree in Engineering, Supply Chain, Data Analytics, Business, Finance or related field AND 6+ years experience in project management, engineering, and contracting and legal

  • OR equivalent experience.

Background Check Requirements:  

Ability to meet Microsoft, customer and/or government security screening requirements are required for this role. These requirements include, but are not limited to the follo