Director Sales Contract Operations

We Impact Lives Through Purpose-Driven Work in A People First Culture Ascend Learning, a leading healthcare and learning technology company, is the connection between a powerful portfolio of brands serving students, educators, and employers with outcomes-based, data-driven solutions across the lifecycle of learning. From testing to certification, Ascend Learning products are used by physicians, emergency medical professionals, nurses, allied health professionals, certified personal trainers, financial advisors, skilled trades professionals and insurance brokers. Headquartered in Burlington, MA, with additional office locations and hybrid and remote workers in cities across the U.S., Ascend Learning was recognized by Newsweek and Plant-A Insights Group as one of America’s 2025 Greatest Workplaces as well as America’s Best Places to work for Mental Well-Being for 2025. We're always looking for talented, passionate professionals to join us in our mission to help change lives. If this sounds like an environment where you'd thrive, read on to learn more. WHAT YOU'LL DO The Director of Commercial Contract Operations is responsible for ensuring efficient, compliant, and scalable contract processes that support revenue growth and mitigate risk. This role will also lead the strategy, execution, and governance of the contract lifecycle management (CLM) system across the organization. The Director will manage a high-performing team, drive operational excellence, and expand contract services across all Ascend sales teams. WHERE YOU’LL WORK This position will work a hybrid schedule from our Leawood, KS or Burlington, MA office locations preferred or remote will be considered within the United States. HOW YOU’LL SPEND YOUR TIME Implement and optimize CLM technology solutions to improve speed, accuracy, and compliance. Develop and enforce standardized contracting templates, playbooks, and governance frameworks. Lead, mentor, and grow a team of contract professionals, fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement. Define clear roles, responsibilities, and KPIs for the team to ensure operational excellence. Serve as the primary liaison between Commercial Operations, Legal, and Sales leadership. Drive alignment on contract policies, approval workflows, and risk management strategies. Support strategic initiatives such as pricing models, revenue recognition, and compliance programs. WHAT YOU'LL NEED Bachelor's degree in business, finance, law, or a related field is required 8+ years of experience in contract management, commercial operations, or legal roles. 3+ years of direct people management experience, including leading managers or senior individual contributors. Strong understanding of contract law, negotiation principles, and contract drafting. Strong understanding of commercial terms, risk mitigation, and regulatory compliance. Exceptional leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills. Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, global environment and manage competing priorities. BENEFITS Flexible and generous paid time off Competitive medical, dental, vision and life insurance 401(k) employer matching program Parental leave Wellness resources Charitable matching program On-site workout facilities (Leawood, Gilbert, Burlington) Community outreach groups Tuition reimbursement Fostering A Sense of Belonging Our values-driven culture unifies our teams and inspires a mindset of action, innovation, and collaboration, with a relentless focus on customers. We seek out and celebrate all people and perspectives and cultivate an inclusive culture where everyone can thrive, feel valued, and be authentic. Our culture is firmly rooted in the belief that by embracing our differences and drawing on diverse perspectives, we are a stronger, more innovative, and more successful organization where employees experience a sense of belonging. Ascend Learning, LLC is proud to be an equal opportunity employer (M/F/Vets/Disabled). No agency or search firm submissions will be accepted. Applications for U.S.-based positions with Ascend Learning, LLC must be legally authorized to work in the United States, and verification of employment eligibility will be required at the time of hire.