Contracts Program Manager

Job Overview:

The Cadence Contracts Program Manager will support and drive business development and commercial proposals for EU and European Government-funded programs. This role partners closely with Sales, Legal, and cross-functional stakeholders to help progress opportunities through to contract award, while aligning with Cadence business objectives.

The role involves collaboration across technical and commercial teams within Cadence, as well as engagement with external stakeholders including European institutions, national governments, and industry partners.

The Contracts Program Manager will also provide guidance on key compliance processes throughout the tendering lifecycle, including request for quotation (RFQ), proposal development, negotiation, and contract execution.

Job Responsibilities:

• Represent Cadence with the EU Commission and European member states in relation to the EU Chips Act and other government initiatives across the European Union.
• Engage with ecosystem partners, academic institutions, established organisations, and semiconductor start-ups to develop opportunity pipelines, define requirements (software, hardware, and cloud), and support proposal and contract development.
• Assess contract terms and identify potential risks, recommending approaches to mitigate exposure, including alternative contractual language.
• Contribute to negotiations with customers, suppliers, and regulatory bodies to support successful contract outcomes.
• Guide Cadence teams on potential commercial, operational, and financial considerations within government requests for proposal (RFPs) and associated terms and conditions.
• Identify and escalate risks or issues to executive management, legal, and sales stakeholders where appropriate.
• Build and maintain an understanding of Cadence products, services, and processes to effectively support contract strategy and execution.

Job Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent practical experience in a relevant field (e.g. silicon design, electronics manufacturing, or related discipline).
• Experience across multiple stages of government contract negotiation and management.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to interpret complex contractual and regulatory documentation.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English.
• Strong organisational and time management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office tools.
• Experience in semiconductor, electronics, or related technical industries.

• Knowledge of EU government funding programmes (e.g. EU Chips Act).
• Additional language skills such as German or French preferred.

Cadence is committed to equal employment opportunity and employment equity throughout all levels of the organization. We strive to attract a qualified and diverse candidate pool and encourage diversity and inclusion in the workplace.

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