How GRC is redefining the Contract Manager’s role
As regulatory expectations continue to rise and organisations face increasing scrutiny over their third‑party relationships, the role of contract management is undergoing a significant shift. No longer confined to drafting, negotiating, and maintaining agreements, today’s contract managers are becoming strategic custodians of governance, risk, and compliance. In this keynote, we will explore how GRC principles are reshaping the contract management landscape. The session will examine why areas such as third‑party due diligence, reputational risk, ethics and compliance have become essential components of modern contract processes rather than optional considerations. Attendees will gain insight into: - The expanding responsibilities of contract managers in a risk‑aware environment - How integrated technology ecosystems can strengthen compliance and reduce exposure - Practical ways to embed GRC thinking throughout the contract lifecycle - How leading organisations are future‑proofing their contract operations This session equips contract managers to elevate their strategic influence shifting from operational contributors to trusted risk stewards who help their organisations build resilience, trust, and long‑term value.
About
Jan Stappers
Jan Stappers serves as EVP, Solutions Strategy at Mitratech. An authority in organisational whistleblowing management, data privacy, governance, risk management, and regulatory compliance, Jan contributed to the development of ISO 37002, the international guidance for whistleblowing management systems. He is a sought-after speaker on GRC-related topics and has authored numerous articles on legislative developments and organisational best practice.
Jan is a Certified Information Privacy Professional (CIPP/E) through the International Association of Privacy Professionals (IAPP). He holds a Postgraduate Diploma (PGDip) in EU Competition Law from King’s College London and a Master of Laws (LL.M) in European Law from Leiden University. He is a member of the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe’s (UNECE) Working Party on Regulatory Cooperation and Standardization Policies, contributing to its Group of Experts on Risk Management in Regulatory Systems.
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