Role Overview for EVP, Head of Global HR with a Biopharma Services Firm (CRO) – Raleigh, NC
JRG Partners has been exclusively retained to identify a transformative and strategic Executive Vice President (EVP), Head of Global Human Resources for a premier, rapidly growing Biopharmaceutical Services Firm (CRO) headquartered in the vibrant Research Triangle Park area of Raleigh, NC. This is a career-defining opportunity to join the executive leadership team of a market leader and shape the future of its most valuable asset: its people.
Our client is a global Contract Research Organization (CRO) renowned for its scientific expertise, commitment to quality, and innovative approach to accelerating drug development. With operations spanning North America, Europe, and Asia, they partner with the world’s leading pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and medical device companies. As they embark on their next phase of strategic growth, including organic expansion and potential M&A activities, the need for a visionary HR leader has never been more critical.
Reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), the EVP, Head of Global HR will serve as a key strategic partner, C-suite advisor, and functional leader responsible for designing and executing a global human resources strategy that aligns with and drives the company’s business objectives. This executive will be the chief architect of the company’s culture, talent, and organizational effectiveness. You will lead a global team of HR professionals and be responsible for all facets of human resources, including talent acquisition, talent management, leadership development, organizational design, compensation and benefits, employee relations, DE&I, and HR systems and operations. The ideal candidate is a seasoned, business-oriented HR executive with significant experience within the life sciences, CRO, or biopharma industry, possessing a proven track record of building and scaling world-class HR functions in a complex, global environment.
Key Responsibilities of EVP, Head of Global HR with a Biopharma Services Firm (CRO) – Raleigh, NC
Executive Leadership & Strategic Partnership
Act as a trusted advisor to the CEO and the executive leadership team on all human capital matters. Translate business strategy into a comprehensive, forward-looking global HR strategy. Provide insightful data, analysis, and recommendations to guide decision-making on talent, culture, and organizational structure.
Organizational Design & Effectiveness
Partner with senior leaders to design and implement organizational structures that support business goals, enhance efficiency, and foster a culture of high performance. Lead change management initiatives to support a dynamic and evolving organization.
Talent Acquisition & Management
Oversee the development and execution of a sophisticated global talent acquisition strategy to attract, assess, and hire top-tier scientific, clinical, and corporate talent. Implement robust talent management programs, including performance management, succession planning, and high-potential employee identification and development.
Leadership Development & Learning
Champion a culture of continuous learning and development. Design and implement executive and leadership development programs that build the capabilities needed to drive future growth. Foster a coaching and mentoring environment across the organization.
Culture & Employee Engagement
Serve as the primary steward of the company’s culture. Develop and implement strategies to enhance employee engagement, morale, and retention. Utilize employee feedback, surveys, and data to create a workplace environment where employees feel valued, included, and motivated.
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DE&I)
Lead the global DE&I strategy, ensuring it is woven into the fabric of the company’s talent and business practices. Develop initiatives that foster a diverse and inclusive environment, promoting equity and a sense of belonging for all employees.
Total Rewards Strategy
Design and oversee a competitive and equitable global total rewards strategy, including executive compensation, broad-based compensation, equity programs, and benefits. Ensure programs are aligned with market trends, business objectives, and attract and retain top talent.
HR Operations & Technology
Modernize and optimize HR operations through the effective use of technology and analytics. Oversee the HRIS platform to ensure data integrity and leverage people analytics to provide insights that inform business decisions and talent strategies. Enhance policies and processes to ensure efficiency and scalability.
Mergers & Acquisitions (M&A) Integration
Play a pivotal leadership role in the HR aspects of due diligence and post-merger integration for any corporate transactions. Develop and execute seamless integration plans for talent, culture, and HR systems.
Employee Relations & Compliance
Ensure legal compliance with all federal, state, and local employment laws and regulations across all global locations. Oversee employee relations, providing guidance and resolution on complex issues. Mitigate risk and ensure a fair and ethical work environment. This includes managing complex challenges related to global talent mobility and international labor laws.
Requirements for the EVP, Head of Global HR with a Biopharma Services Firm (CRO) – Raleigh, NC
Experience
A minimum of 15-20 years of progressive HR experience, with at least 7-10 years in a senior leadership role (VP or higher) overseeing a global HR function.
Industry Background
Deep experience within the biopharmaceutical, pharmaceutical, CRO, or life sciences industry is strongly required. Understanding the unique talent challenges and scientific nature of the business is critical for success.
Global Leadership
Proven experience leading HR in a multinational organization with a significant employee presence across multiple continents. Demonstrable success in creating and implementing cohesive global HR programs that also account for local nuances.
Educational Background
A Bachelor’s degree is required. A Master’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration (MBA), or a related field is highly preferred.
Strategic Acumen
A strategic thinker with the ability to connect HR initiatives directly to business outcomes. Must be able to operate at the 30,000-foot level and also dive into the details when necessary.
M&A Experience
Demonstrable experience leading the HR workstream through the full M&A lifecycle, from due diligence to successful integration.
Leadership & Influence
Exceptional leadership skills with the ability to inspire and motivate a global team. A proven ability to build strong, trusted relationships and influence at all levels of the organization, particularly at the C-suite and Board level.
Communication Skills
Outstanding communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills. The ability to articulate a clear and compelling vision for human capital.
Analytical & Data-Driven
Strong business and financial acumen with a data-driven approach to decision-making. Experience leveraging HR analytics to drive insights and results.
Personal Attributes
High integrity, strong executive presence, collaborative style, low ego, and a passion for building great organizations. Resilient, adaptable, and comfortable with ambiguity in a fast-paced, high-growth environment.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client offers a highly competitive and comprehensive executive compensation and benefits package designed to attract and retain the very best talent. This includes:
- A competitive base salary and significant annual performance-based bonus.
- A meaningful long-term incentive plan (Equity/Stock Options).
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance for you and your dependents.
- A robust 401(k) retirement plan with a generous company match.
- Generous Paid Time Off (PTO), including vacation, sick leave, and company holidays.
- Executive-level professional development and coaching opportunities.
- Relocation assistance package for qualified candidates.
- Life and disability insurance.
- An opportunity to make a significant impact on a growing, mission-driven organization that is improving global health.
How to Apply
This is a confidential, retained search conducted by JRG Partners. If you are a visionary HR leader with the requisite experience and a passion for the life sciences industry, we encourage you to apply. To be considered for this exceptional opportunity, please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and interest in the role.
JRG Partners is a leader in executive recruitment, and we specialize in connecting top-tier talent with innovative companies. To learn more about our expertise in this sector, please visit our Life Sciences executive search practice page. We are committed to diversity and inclusion and welcome applicants from all backgrounds. All inquiries and applications will be handled with the strictest confidence.
