Role Overview for Chief Operating Officer with a Biopharma Services Firm (CRO) – Raleigh, NC
JRG Partners is proud to partner with a premier, rapidly growing Biopharmaceutical Services Firm (CRO) in their search for a visionary and results-driven Chief Operating Officer (COO). This executive leadership position, based in the thriving life sciences hub of Raleigh, North Carolina, offers a unique opportunity to shape the future of a dynamic organization at the forefront of clinical research and drug development. Our client is a leader in providing comprehensive services to pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and medical device companies, and they are seeking a COO who can drive operational excellence, foster innovation, and scale the organization to new heights.
The Chief Operating Officer will serve as a key member of the executive team, reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer (CEO). This role is fundamentally about translating the company’s strategic vision into tangible, efficient, and high-quality operational execution. The ideal candidate will be a strategic thinker with a deep understanding of the CRO landscape, possessing a proven track record of managing complex, multi-functional operations in a regulated environment. You will be responsible for the entire spectrum of service delivery, from clinical operations and project management to data sciences and laboratory services. Your leadership will be critical in ensuring that our client not only meets but exceeds client expectations, maintains the highest standards of quality and compliance, and achieves its ambitious growth and profitability targets. This is a role for a leader who is passionate about advancing medicine, building high-performing teams, and creating sustainable value in a fast-paced, science-driven industry.
Key Responsibilities of Chief Operating Officer with a Biopharma Services Firm (CRO) – Raleigh, NC
Strategic Leadership & Execution
Collaborate with the CEO and executive team to develop and implement the company’s long-term strategic plan. Translate high-level strategy into actionable operational goals, key performance indicators (KPIs), and departmental objectives. Drive initiatives that enhance market position, expand service offerings, and increase shareholder value.
Operational Oversight & Excellence
Assume full P&L responsibility and day-to-day leadership for all operational departments, including Clinical Operations, Project Management, Biostatistics, Data Management, Regulatory Affairs, and Laboratory Services. Implement best practices, lean methodologies, and robust processes to optimize efficiency, productivity, and resource allocation across all functions.
Quality & Regulatory Compliance
Champion a culture of unwavering quality and compliance. Ensure all operations adhere strictly to global regulatory requirements, industry standards, and internal SOPs. Maintain a state of inspection-readiness and oversee compliance with regulations from bodies such as the FDA, EMA, and other international authorities, including adherence to Good Clinical Practice (GCP) standards.
Financial Management & Performance
Develop and manage the annual operating budget. Monitor financial performance against goals, providing regular reports and forecasts to the executive team and board. Identify opportunities for cost savings and revenue enhancement without compromising quality or client satisfaction.
Client Relationship Management
Act as an executive sponsor for key client accounts. Work closely with Business Development to ensure seamless project initiation and transition from sales to operations. Foster strong, long-term relationships with clients by ensuring exceptional service delivery, proactive communication, and effective problem resolution.
Technology & Innovation
Evaluate and implement new technologies, systems, and digital solutions to enhance operational capabilities, improve data integrity, and create a competitive advantage. Drive a culture of continuous improvement and innovation throughout the organization.
Talent Management & Leadership Development
Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing operational leadership team. Foster a collaborative, accountable, and engaging work environment that attracts, retains, and develops top talent. Implement effective performance management and succession planning programs within the operational divisions.
Scalability & Growth
Develop and execute plans to scale operations in alignment with the company’s aggressive growth trajectory. This includes capacity planning, resource management, and infrastructure development to support new business wins and service line expansions, both domestically and internationally.
Requirements for the Chief Operating Officer with a Biopharma Services Firm (CRO) – Raleigh, NC
Educational Background
An advanced degree (e.g., MBA, PhD, MD, or PharmD) in a relevant life sciences or business discipline is strongly preferred. A Bachelor’s degree in a scientific field is required.
Executive Experience
A minimum of 15 years of progressive leadership experience within the CRO, pharmaceutical, or biotechnology industry, with at least 5-7 years in a senior executive role (e.g., COO, SVP/VP of Operations, General Manager) with significant P&L responsibility.
CRO Industry Expertise
Deep and comprehensive understanding of the drug development process and the full-service CRO business model. Proven experience managing multiple service lines, such as clinical monitoring, data management, biostatistics, and regulatory affairs.
Operational Acumen
Demonstrated success in building, leading, and scaling complex operational teams. A track record of implementing process improvements that result in measurable gains in efficiency, quality, and profitability.
Financial & Business Acumen
Strong command of financial principles, including budgeting, forecasting, and P&L management. Ability to analyze complex business problems and make data-driven strategic decisions.
Regulatory Knowledge
In-depth knowledge of global regulatory environments (FDA, EMA, etc.) and industry guidelines (GCP, ICH). Experience successfully hosting regulatory inspections is highly desirable.
Leadership & Communication Skills
Exceptional leadership presence with the ability to inspire and motivate teams at all levels. Superior communication, interpersonal, and presentation skills, with the ability to effectively engage with clients, employees, and the board of directors.
Location
Ability to work on-site at the company’s headquarters in Raleigh, NC. Relocation assistance is available for the ideal candidate.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to attracting and retaining top executive talent by offering a highly competitive and comprehensive compensation and benefits package, including:
Executive Compensation
A competitive base salary, significant annual performance-based bonus, and a meaningful long-term equity incentive plan.
Comprehensive Health & Wellness
A full suite of benefits including medical, dental, and vision insurance for you and your dependents.
Retirement Savings
A robust 401(k) plan with a generous company match to help you plan for your future.
Paid Time Off
A generous policy for vacation, sick leave, and paid holidays to support work-life balance.
Professional Development
Support for continuous learning, including attendance at industry conferences and executive coaching opportunities.
Relocation Assistance
A comprehensive relocation package is available for qualified candidates moving to the Raleigh area.
How to Apply
JRG Partners is exclusively managing the search for this pivotal Chief Operating Officer role. If you are a visionary operational leader with the experience and passion to drive a leading CRO to its next stage of growth, we invite you to apply.
To be considered for this confidential opportunity, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your qualifications and interest. For more information about our expertise in this sector, please visit the JRG Partners’ Life Sciences practice area page.
Our client is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.
