Role Overview for VP, Clinical Data Management with a CRO – St. Louis, MO
JRG Partners is proud to exclusively represent a premier, globally recognized Contract Research Organization (CRO) in their search for a transformative Vice President of Clinical Data Management. This is a career-defining executive leadership opportunity based in the vibrant life sciences hub of St. Louis, Missouri. We are seeking a visionary and strategic leader to assume ultimate responsibility for the direction, quality, and operational excellence of the entire global Clinical Data Management (CDM) department.
In this pivotal role, you will be the driving force behind the innovation and execution of all data management strategies across a diverse portfolio of therapeutic areas. You will report directly to the Chief Operating Officer and serve as a key member of the senior leadership team, shaping the future of the company’s clinical trial data services. Your leadership will directly impact the integrity, accuracy, and timeliness of clinical data, which is the bedrock upon which our clients’ drug development programs are built. You will be tasked with not only maintaining the highest standards of quality and compliance but also with pioneering new technologies and methodologies to enhance efficiency and provide superior client service.
The ideal candidate is a seasoned expert in the CRO industry with a proven track record of building and leading high-performing, global teams. You possess a deep understanding of the end-to-end data management lifecycle, from study start-up and database design to data cleaning, reconciliation, and database lock. You are a strategic thinker who can anticipate industry trends, navigate complex regulatory landscapes, and translate a long-term vision into actionable, measurable plans.
This position requires a leader who can inspire excellence, foster a culture of continuous improvement, and build robust, collaborative relationships with clients, internal stakeholders, and industry partners. If you are ready to take the helm of a critical function within a dynamic, growth-oriented organization and make a tangible impact on the future of medicine, we encourage you to apply.
Key Responsibilities of VP, Clinical Data Management with a CRO – St. Louis, MO
Strategic Leadership & Vision
Develop, articulate, and execute a comprehensive global strategy for the Clinical Data Management department that aligns with the company’s overall corporate objectives. Drive innovation by evaluating and implementing cutting-edge technologies, systems, and processes (e.g., AI/ML, risk-based monitoring support, decentralized trial data solutions) to increase efficiency and data quality.
Operational Oversight & Excellence
Provide executive oversight for all global data management projects and activities. Ensure the timely and high-quality delivery of all CDM services, including but not limited to Case Report Form (eCRF) design, database development, data validation specifications, query management, medical coding, SAE reconciliation, and database lock procedures. Establish, monitor, and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) to drive operational excellence and predictability.
Global Team Leadership & Development
Lead, mentor, and empower a large, geographically dispersed team of data management professionals. Foster a collaborative, inclusive, and high-performance culture. Oversee talent acquisition, professional development, and succession planning to build a world-class CDM organization. Manage global resource allocation and utilization to ensure projects are staffed appropriately and effectively.
Quality, Compliance & Governance
Serve as the ultimate authority on data integrity and quality. Ensure all data management activities are executed in strict compliance with Good Clinical Practice (GCP), ICH guidelines, 21 CFR Part 11, GDPR, and other applicable global regulatory requirements. Oversee the development, maintenance, and adherence to all Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), work instructions, and departmental standards. Prepare for and successfully lead the department through client audits and regulatory inspections.
Client Relationship & Stakeholder Management
Act as the senior executive point of contact for key clients on all data management matters. Build and maintain strong, trust-based relationships, ensuring client satisfaction and repeat business. Collaborate effectively with other executive leaders across Biostatistics, Clinical Operations, Project Management, Quality Assurance, and Business Development to ensure seamless service integration and delivery.
Financial & Budgetary Management
Develop and manage the annual budget for the global CDM department. Ensure financial targets for revenue, profitability, and operational efficiency are met or exceeded. Provide strategic input on pricing models and resource forecasting to support the company’s growth.
Business Development Support
Act as the subject matter expert for Clinical Data Management during the sales process. Participate in high-stakes bid defense meetings, client presentations, and capability assessments. Provide strategic and technical input for proposals and Requests for Information (RFIs) to help win new business.
Industry Presence
Represent the company as a thought leader in the clinical data management space by participating in industry conferences, publishing articles, and contributing to professional organizations like the Society for Clinical Data Management (SCDM).
Requirements for the VP, Clinical Data Management with a CRO – St. Louis, MO
Educational Background
A minimum of a Bachelor’s degree in a life science, computer science, health information management, or related field is required. An advanced degree (Master’s, MBA, PhD) is highly preferred.
Professional Experience
A minimum of 15 years of progressive experience within Clinical Data Management in the pharmaceutical, biotechnology, or CRO industry. At least 8-10 years of this experience must be in a senior leadership capacity (Director, Senior Director, or VP level) with responsibility for managing large, global teams and departmental strategy.
CRO Industry Expertise
Significant and demonstrable experience working within a Contract Research Organization (CRO) environment is mandatory. A deep understanding of the CRO business model, client expectations, and financial drivers is essential for success in this role.
Technical Proficiency
Expert-level knowledge of major Electronic Data Capture (EDC) systems such as Medidata Rave, Oracle Clinical/InForm, or Veeva Vault EDC. Comprehensive understanding of CDISC standards, including CDASH, SDTM, and ADaM. Proficiency with data reporting and visualization tools.
Regulatory Acumen
In-depth, expert knowledge of global clinical trial regulations and guidelines, including ICH-GCP, 21 CFR Part 11, and data privacy laws (e.g., GDPR, HIPAA). Proven experience successfully hosting regulatory inspections (e.g., FDA, EMA) and client audits.
Leadership & Management Skills
Exceptional leadership capabilities with a proven ability to inspire, motivate, and develop talent on a global scale. Strong strategic planning, organizational, and problem-solving skills. Demonstrable experience managing departmental budgets and resources effectively.
Communication & Interpersonal Skills
Superior verbal and written communication skills. The ability to present complex information clearly and concisely to executive leadership, clients, and regulatory bodies. Excellent negotiation, influencing, and relationship-building skills.
Business Acumen
Strong business and financial acumen, with the ability to contribute to business development efforts and drive departmental profitability. A strategic mindset with the ability to see the bigger picture and drive long-term value.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to attracting and retaining top-tier talent by offering a highly competitive and comprehensive compensation and benefits package. This includes:
- Highly competitive base salary and an attractive executive-level annual bonus plan.
- Meaningful equity participation through a long-term incentive plan (e.g., stock options, RSUs).
- Comprehensive health and wellness benefits, including medical, dental, and vision insurance for you and your dependents.
- A robust retirement savings plan, such as a 401(k) with a generous company match.
- Substantial Paid Time Off (PTO), including vacation, sick leave, and company-paid holidays.
- Full relocation assistance package for qualified candidates and their families to the St. Louis, MO area.
- Support for professional development, including attendance at industry conferences, certifications, and continuing education.
- Access to an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for confidential support and resources.
- A dynamic, innovative, and collaborative corporate culture that values employee contributions and fosters professional growth.
How to Apply
JRG Partners is the exclusive recruitment firm managing this executive search. To be considered for this exceptional opportunity, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your qualifications and leadership philosophy. All applications will be treated with the strictest confidence.
Interested candidates should apply directly through our portal. If you have questions or wish to learn more about this role and other exclusive opportunities, we invite you to explore our Life Sciences practice area page for more information on how we connect top talent with leading organizations.
Our client is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE) and is committed to creating 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.
