Force Majeure
Force majeure is a common legal term used in contracts that refers to unexpected events beyond anyone's control that can prevent someone from fulfilling their contract obligations. Think of it as a "safety net" clause that protects parties when extraordinary circumstances like natural disasters, wars, or pandemics make it impossible to complete work as planned. In job descriptions, experience with force majeure often means the person has worked on creating, reviewing, or managing contracts that include these special circumstances clauses.
Examples in Resumes
Negotiated Force Majeure clauses in over 50 international contracts
Successfully managed contract modifications during COVID-19 pandemic by applying Force Majeure provisions
Created standardized Force Majeure language for company-wide contract templates
Typical job title: "Contract Managers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Contract Managers
Professional Associations
Online Communities
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you handle a situation where a supplier claims force majeure due to a regional conflict?
Expected Answer: The candidate should explain the process of validating the claim, reviewing contract terms, assessing alternative solutions, and negotiating with the supplier while protecting the company's interests.
Q: What improvements have you made to force majeure clauses based on lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic?
Expected Answer: Look for answers that show how they've updated contract language to be more specific about pandemics, supply chain disruptions, and remote work situations.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What elements do you consider essential in a force majeure clause?
Expected Answer: They should mention specific events that qualify, notice requirements, mitigation obligations, and the consequences of invoking force majeure.
Q: How do you explain force majeure to non-legal stakeholders?
Expected Answer: Look for clear, simple explanations using real-world examples and ability to communicate complex legal concepts to business teams.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is force majeure and when does it apply?
Expected Answer: Should explain that it's a contract clause for unexpected events beyond control, with basic examples like natural disasters or government actions.
Q: What's the difference between force majeure and normal contract breach?
Expected Answer: Should explain that force majeure excuses performance due to unexpected external events, while breach is typically within a party's control.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic contract review
- Understanding of force majeure concepts
- Contract document organization
- Simple contract modifications
Mid (2-5 years)
- Contract negotiation
- Force majeure clause drafting
- Risk assessment
- Stakeholder communication
Senior (5+ years)
- Complex contract strategy
- International contract law
- Policy development
- Team leadership
Red Flags to Watch For
- No understanding of basic contract principles
- Unable to explain force majeure in simple terms
- Lack of experience with contract review or negotiation
- No knowledge of recent force majeure applications (like during COVID-19)
Need more hiring wisdom? Check these out...
Navigating the Legal Labyrinth: Unpacking Global Labor Laws for Transnational Teams
Silencing the Noise: How No-Meeting Days Supercharge Recruiter Productivity
The $100M Mistake: Hidden Costs of Rushed Leadership Hires (Data Study)
