Contract Management in Local Government
May 13-15, 2026 | Full Day Schedule | Chapel-Hill, NC | Registration Fee: $495
This course will address the management, networking, and legal aspects of contracting for North Carolina local governments. We will review several topics to broaden participants’ scope and understanding of public contracting issues. This course will equip public managers to appreciate various make-or-buy decision techniques, learn about management and legal challenges in contracting and how to mitigate them, identify various ways to design context-driven contracts and learn how to select, administer, and manage contracts. This course is developed for all local public officials at mid-career and supervisory levels.
Learning outcomes:
Understand the Government Contracting Process
Identify various contract types, pricing structures, and payment models used in public procurement
Identify common legal limitations and compliance requirements in contract execution
Design and Structure Effective Contracts
Develop strategies for vendor relationship management, including communication and conflict resolution
Understand best practices for nonprofit contracting within the broader procurement process
Implement best practices in contract administration, including tracking performance and ensuring compliance
Address Common Challenges and Solutions in Public Contracting
The course consists of the following eight sections:
Section 1: Introduction to Government Contracting
Section 2: Make or Buy Decisions
Section 3: Managing the Challenges of Contracting
Section 4: Legal Framework for Contracting
Section 5: Understanding Pricing Structures
Section 6: Contract Terms & Drafting
Section 7: A Well-Designed Contract Depends on the Scope
Section 8: Contract Administration & Monitoring
Delivery method:
We will teach the course using a seminar style, meaning instructors will introduce and explain a topic, ask questions, and respond to participant questions and comments. We will make use of small group breakout sessions and exercises.
AGENDA
The 2026 Agenda still to be announced but you can view the 2025 Agenda under the "Materials" tab.
INSTRUCTORS
Teshanee Williams, Ph.D. Assistant Professor of Public Administration and Government
Crista Cuccaro, J.D. Teaching Assistant Professor of Public Law and Government
Additional information
SCHOLARSHIP INFORMATION
The School of Government is grateful to offer a number of scholarship and discount opportunities for public officials who wish to participate in our continuing education programs. Scholarships and discounts are available both internally through the School and through the generous support of partnering organizations. Learn more about the range of these opportunities on our Scholarship Discount Opportunities page.
HOTEL INFORMATION
Please see the School’s list of recommended area hotels.
PARKING INFORMATION
Parking details will be provided to you by your program manager the week prior to the program. Additional directions and parking information can be found on our Visitor Information page.
CANCELLATION POLICY
Course participants who cancel their registration more than 7 calendar days before the course start date will receive a full refund. Otherwise, participants will receive a transferrable credit to be used within 12 months. More information can be found in the full cancellation and refund policy.
