Role Overview for EVP, Life Sciences with a Global CRO – Princeton, NJ
JRG Partners is proud to partner with a premier, global Contract Research Organization (CRO) in their search for a visionary and transformative Executive Vice President (EVP) of Life Sciences. This pivotal executive leadership position, based in the dynamic life sciences corridor of Princeton, New Jersey, is a rare opportunity to shape the future of global clinical development and drive significant growth for a market leader. Our client is renowned for its commitment to scientific rigor, operational excellence, and innovative solutions that accelerate the delivery of life-changing therapies to patients worldwide.
As the EVP of Life Sciences, you will hold the ultimate responsibility for the strategic direction, operational execution, and financial performance of the entire global Life Sciences division. You will be a cornerstone of the executive leadership team, reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer, and will be instrumental in defining the company’s long-term vision and competitive positioning.
This role demands a leader with a profound understanding of the biopharmaceutical and medical device industries, a proven track record of scaling global operations, and an unwavering passion for advancing human health. You will be tasked with steering the organization through the complexities of the evolving clinical research landscape, capitalizing on emerging technologies, and fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and unparalleled client service. This is more than a job; it is a chance to leave an indelible mark on an industry dedicated to improving lives.
Key Responsibilities of EVP, Life Sciences with a Global CRO – Princeton, NJ
The EVP, Life Sciences will have a broad and impactful remit, overseeing all facets of the division. Your key responsibilities will include:
Strategic Vision and Executive Leadership
Develop and execute a comprehensive, forward-thinking strategic plan for the Life Sciences division that aligns with the company’s overall corporate objectives. Identify and capitalize on new market trends, therapeutic areas, and geographic expansion opportunities. Drive M&A strategy, from target identification and due diligence to successful integration.
Global Operational Excellence
Provide executive oversight for all global service lines, including Clinical Operations, Project Management, Data Management, Biostatistics, Regulatory Affairs, and Medical Writing. Implement best practices and innovative methodologies to enhance efficiency, quality, and delivery timelines across all clinical trial phases (I-IV). Champion a culture of continuous improvement and operational excellence.
Financial Performance and P&L Management
Assume full P&L responsibility for the multi-hundred-million-dollar global Life Sciences division. Develop and manage annual budgets, financial forecasts, and resource allocation plans. Drive top-line revenue growth and bottom-line profitability, ensuring all financial targets and KPIs are met or exceeded.
Business Development and Client Relationship Management
Lead the global business development strategy to expand market share and deepen client engagement. Cultivate and maintain strong, C-suite level relationships with key clients in the pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and medical device sectors. Act as the executive sponsor on major accounts and strategic partnerships, ensuring the highest level of client satisfaction.
Team Leadership and Talent Development
Lead, mentor, and inspire a large, globally dispersed team of senior leaders and technical experts. Foster a high-performance, inclusive, and collaborative culture that attracts, develops, and retains top-tier talent. Implement robust succession planning and professional development programs to build a strong leadership pipeline.
Innovation and Technology Integration
Champion the evaluation and adoption of cutting-edge technologies and digital solutions, such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), machine learning, decentralized clinical trials (DCTs), and real-world evidence (RWE) platforms. Ensure the company remains at the forefront of innovation to deliver enhanced value to clients.
Quality and Regulatory Compliance
Uphold the highest standards of quality and ethical conduct across all operations. Ensure strict compliance with global regulatory requirements, including guidelines from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), European Medicines Agency (EMA), and other international health authorities. Oversee the quality management system (QMS) and ensure a constant state of inspection readiness.
Requirements for the EVP, Life Sciences with a Global CRO – Princeton, NJ
We are seeking an exceptional leader with a distinguished career in the life sciences industry. The ideal candidate will possess a unique blend of scientific knowledge, business acumen, and inspirational leadership.
Educational Background
An advanced degree (MD, PhD, PharmD) in a scientific discipline is highly preferred. An MBA in conjunction with a scientific background is also highly desirable.
Executive Experience
A minimum of 20 years of progressive experience within the CRO, pharmaceutical, or biotechnology industry, with at least 10 years in a senior executive leadership role (e.g., SVP, EVP, General Manager, or C-level).
P&L Responsibility
Demonstrated experience managing a large, complex P&L for a global business unit or division with significant revenue (ideally $500M+).
Global Leadership
Proven success in leading and managing large, cross-functional, and geographically dispersed teams across North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific.
Industry Expertise
Deep and comprehensive understanding of the entire drug development lifecycle, clinical trial processes, and the global regulatory landscape. Experience across multiple therapeutic areas is essential.
Strategic Acumen
A strategic and visionary thinker with a proven ability to develop and implement successful growth strategies, including organic growth initiatives and M&A.
Commercial Orientation
Strong business development and commercial skills with a track record of driving significant revenue growth and building lasting client relationships at the executive level.
Communication Skills
Exceptional communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence and build consensus among a wide range of internal and external stakeholders.
Leadership Qualities
An inspirational and decisive leader known for building high-performing teams, fostering a positive culture, and leading with integrity, transparency, and resilience.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client offers a highly competitive and comprehensive executive compensation and benefits package designed to attract and retain a leader of this caliber. The package includes:
Executive Compensation
A highly competitive base salary, a significant annual performance-based bonus, and a substantial long-term incentive plan (equity/stock options).
Health & Wellness
Premier medical, dental, and vision insurance plans for you and your dependents, along with comprehensive wellness programs and resources.
Retirement Planning
A robust 401(k) retirement savings plan with a generous company match and potential for executive deferred compensation plans.
Paid Time Off
A generous and flexible paid time off (PTO) policy, including vacation, sick leave, and company-paid holidays.
Professional Development
A dedicated budget for executive coaching, continuing education, and participation in key industry conferences and events.
Relocation
A comprehensive executive relocation assistance package is available for the successful candidate and their family.
Additional Perks
Other benefits include life insurance, disability coverage, and various corporate discounts and perks.
How to Apply
JRG Partners has been exclusively retained for this critical executive search. To express your interest in this exceptional opportunity, please submit your curriculum vitae and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and leadership philosophy. All inquiries and applications will be handled with the utmost confidentiality.
We invite you to learn more about our dedicated focus in this sector by visiting the JRG Partners’ Life Sciences Executive Search practice page. We look forward to connecting with transformative leaders who are ready to drive the next wave of innovation in clinical research.
Our client is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE) and is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.
