Role Overview for EVP, Global Clinical Outsourcing with a Clinical Research Org (CRO) – Raleigh, NC
JRG Partners is proud to conduct an exclusive, retained search on behalf of a premier, globally recognized Clinical Research Organization (CRO) at the forefront of therapeutic innovation. Our client is a leader in providing comprehensive drug development solutions to the pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and medical device industries. Situated in the dynamic life sciences hub of Raleigh, North Carolina—the heart of the Research Triangle Park—they are seeking a visionary and strategic leader to join their executive team as the Executive Vice President (EVP) of Global Clinical Outsourcing.
This is a transformative leadership opportunity to architect and execute a world-class global outsourcing and vendor partnership strategy. The EVP will be the central figure responsible for the entire lifecycle of vendor engagement, from strategic sourcing and selection to governance, performance management, and relationship optimization. Reporting directly to the Chief Operating Officer (COO), this individual will be a pivotal member of the senior leadership team, tasked with building a scalable, efficient, and high-quality network of external partners that directly supports the successful delivery of clinical trials for a diverse portfolio of clients.
The ideal candidate is a seasoned executive with a profound understanding of the clinical development landscape and a demonstrated track record of building and leading high-performing global outsourcing functions within a CRO or sponsor environment. You will be responsible for a significant budget and a global team, driving value, mitigating risk, and fostering innovation through strategic partnerships. This role requires a unique blend of strategic foresight, financial acumen, operational expertise, and exceptional leadership to shape the future of our client’s clinical trial execution capabilities.
Key Responsibilities of EVP, Global Clinical Outsourcing with a Clinical Research Org (CRO) – Raleigh, NC
Strategic Vision & Execution
Develop, articulate, and implement a comprehensive 3-5 year global clinical outsourcing and vendor management strategy that aligns with the company’s long-term corporate objectives. Continuously assess the external vendor landscape to identify emerging trends, potential partners, and innovative partnership models.
Global Vendor Governance Framework
Design and establish a robust, centralized governance framework for all outsourced activities. This includes creating a Center of Excellence (CoE) for vendor selection, qualification, and oversight. Implement standardized performance metrics, Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), and Service Level Agreements (SLAs) to ensure vendor accountability and performance excellence.
Financial & Performance Optimization
Assume full P&L responsibility for a multi-million dollar global outsourcing budget. Drive financial efficiency through strategic sourcing, expert negotiation, and demand management. Champion initiatives that deliver value beyond cost savings, focusing on quality, speed, and innovation.
Masterful Contract Negotiation
Lead and oversee high-stakes negotiations for a wide range of agreements, including Master Service Agreements (MSAs), Statements of Work (SOWs), preferred provider agreements, and technology licensing contracts. Ensure all contracts are structured to maximize value and minimize risk for the organization.
Executive Relationship Management
Cultivate and maintain strong, strategic, and collaborative relationships with executive counterparts at key partner organizations. Act as the primary escalation point for resolving high-level vendor performance issues. Chair executive steering committees and quarterly business reviews (QBRs) to drive strategic alignment and continuous improvement.
Cross-Functional Leadership & Influence
Serve as a key strategic partner to internal executive leaders, including the heads of Clinical Operations, Data Management, Biostatistics, Regulatory Affairs, and Quality Assurance. Foster a collaborative environment to ensure seamless integration of outsourced services with internal operations.
Team Development & Mentorship
Build, lead, and mentor a world-class global team of outsourcing, procurement, and vendor management professionals across North America, EMEA, and APAC. Foster a culture of high performance, accountability, strategic thinking, and continuous professional development.
Proactive Risk Mitigation & Management
Develop and implement a comprehensive risk management framework to identify, assess, and mitigate operational, financial, compliance, and reputational risks associated with third-party vendors. Ensure robust business continuity and contingency plans are in place for all critical outsourced functions.
Ensuring Unwavering Regulatory Compliance
Guarantee that all outsourcing and vendor management activities are conducted in strict adherence to global regulatory standards, including Good Clinical Practice (GCP), ICH guidelines, and other relevant international regulations. Oversee vendor audit programs and ensure vendors are prepared for regulatory inspections.
Requirements for the EVP, Global Clinical Outsourcing with a Clinical Research Org (CRO) – Raleigh, NC
Education
An advanced degree (MBA, MS, PhD, PharmD) in a life science, healthcare, or business-related field is required.
Executive Experience
A minimum of 15-20 years of progressive experience within the pharmaceutical, biotechnology, or CRO industry. At least 10 years must be in a senior leadership capacity (VP level or higher) with direct responsibility for clinical outsourcing, strategic sourcing, or vendor management on a global scale.
Industry Acumen
Deep, expert-level knowledge of the end-to-end clinical development process (Phase I-IV), the global CRO and clinical vendor landscape, and evolving partnership models. Experience across multiple therapeutic areas is highly preferred.
Demonstrated Leadership
Proven track record of building, scaling, and leading large, geographically dispersed teams. Experience managing global teams of 50+ professionals is highly desirable. Must possess exceptional executive presence and the ability to influence and align stakeholders at all levels, including the C-suite and Board of Directors.
Financial & Negotiation Expertise
Extensive experience managing large, complex budgets (ideally $100M+). World-class negotiation skills with a history of successfully closing multi-year, multi-million dollar agreements that deliver significant value.
Strategic & Analytical Skills
Superior strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities. Capable of translating high-level corporate goals into actionable departmental strategies and operational plans. Highly analytical and data-driven in decision-making.
Communication Skills
Impeccable written, verbal, and presentation skills. Must be able to articulate complex strategies and concepts clearly and persuasively to a variety of audiences.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to attracting and retaining top-tier executive talent and offers a highly competitive and comprehensive compensation package, including:
- An executive compensation package featuring a competitive base salary, a significant annual performance-based bonus, and a meaningful long-term equity/incentive plan.
- Comprehensive, premium health, dental, vision, and life insurance plans for you and your dependents.
- A generous 401(k) retirement plan with a substantial company match.
- Generous paid time off (PTO), company holidays, and flexible work arrangements.
- Full relocation assistance package for qualified candidates and their families to the vibrant Raleigh-Durham area.
- Funding for executive coaching, leadership development programs, and continuous education.
- A collaborative, innovative, and mission-driven company culture with a commitment to improving global health.
How to Apply
This is an exclusive, retained search being conducted by JRG Partners. We are seeking a truly exceptional leader to fill this critical role. All inquiries and applications will be handled with the utmost confidentiality and professionalism.
To express your interest in this confidential opportunity, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your qualifications. For more information about our dedicated expertise in this sector, we invite you to visit the JRG Partners Life Sciences & Healthcare practice area. We look forward to connecting with you to discuss this exciting executive position.
