Commercial contracts and risk: What HR needs to know

About this event

Practical guidance on managing commercial contracts, reducing supplier risks and asking the right questions before signing.

Commercial contracts play a critical role in many HR decisions, from selecting a new HRIS platform to engaging recruitment agencies, payroll providers, wellbeing partners and other suppliers. Understanding key contractual terms can help HR professionals reduce risk, protect employee data, control costs and avoid unexpected obligations.

This session will provide practical guidance on reviewing and managing commercial contracts, highlighting the clauses HR should pay particular attention to, common risks to avoid and key questions to ask before signing. Attendees will gain confidence in working with suppliers and supporting informed business decisions.

Key learning outcomes

• Understand why commercial contracts matter for HR
• Identify key clauses to review in supplier agreements
• Recognise common legal, financial and operational risks
• Understand data protection, liability and termination provisions
• Learn practical steps to improve contract governance and oversight

About the speaker

Cesare McArdle

Cesare is a partner at Herrington Carmichael and specializes in all forms of commercial contracts, including service contracts, goods contracts, software contracts, distribution and agents contracts amongst others. He has a particular focus on international contracts and has advised on contracts covering over 18 countries simultaneously. Cesare has over 13 years experience and has advised household brand names on key strategic contracts.

Please note:

• This is a members only event.
• Participants will receive their joining details 24 hours before the webinar, along with a reminder one hour before the session begins.
• The session may be recorded and shared afterwards.
• The chat function will be used to engage with participants.
• If there is an external speaker, their views will be their own and may not necessarily reflect those of the CIPD.
• If any reasonable adjustments are required, participants are encouraged to make this known and assistance will be provided.