Contracts Manager (Leisure and Culture)

Type: Permanent – Full Time

Closing date: 28 Aug 2026

Interview Date: 7 Sept 2026

Redbridge is an ambitious, diverse and exciting east-London borough. What we do is driven by changing our relationship with local people to support our vision. As a result, we've developed innovative ways to build our communities and transform our Council.

We're one of the fastest growing parts of the country and the third most diverse London borough. Our communities are attracted by a mixture of excellent schools, relatively affordable housing, high-quality open space and rapid transport connections into the heart of the city.

We are seeking an experienced and motivated Contracts Manager to lead the management, monitoring and development of a diverse portfolio of leisure, culture and community service contracts. This pivotal role will ensure high-quality, safe, financially sustainable and resident-focused services are delivered across leisure centres, parks, play areas, outdoor gyms, open spaces, museums, libraries, sports development programmes and cultural facilities and activities. Working at the heart of service delivery, you will act as the Council's client lead, building strong relationships with providers and stakeholders to ensure services meet the needs of residents and contribute to wider community wellbeing.

As Contracts Manager, you will drive contract performance, compliance and continuous improvement across a complex range of delivery models and providers. You will use data, insight and innovation to challenge and support partners, ensuring value for money, service excellence and positive outcomes for residents. The successful candidate will have strong contract management experience, excellent analytical and communication skills, and a proven ability to manage performance, budgets and stakeholder relationships in a dynamic environment. This is an exciting opportunity to shape the future of leisure, culture and community services while making a tangible difference to local people and places.

Job Description and Person Specification

To apply for this post please complete the online application form and attach your CV and a Covering Letter addressing how you meet the criteria for the role as stated in the person specification.

All short-listed applicants will need to demonstrate proof of right to work in the UK.

We are committed to employment practices that promote diversity and inclusion in employment and welcome applications from qualified applicants regardless of age, disability, gender identity, sex, marriage and civil partnership status, pregnancy and maternity status, colour, race, religion, or belief.