VP of Clinical Research (CRO) – Raleigh-Durham, NC (RTP)

Role Overview for VP of Clinical Research (CRO) – Raleigh-Durham, NC (RTP)

JRG Partners, a premier executive search firm specializing in the life sciences sector, is actively seeking a highly accomplished and visionary Vice President of Clinical Research for a leading Contract Research Organization (CRO) based in the vibrant Raleigh-Durham / Research Triangle Park (RTP) region of North Carolina. This is an unparalleled opportunity for a strategic leader to drive the clinical research strategy, operations, and growth of a dynamic CRO at the forefront of medical innovation.

The successful candidate will be instrumental in shaping the future direction of clinical trials, ensuring operational excellence, regulatory compliance, and delivering superior results for a diverse portfolio of pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and medical device clients. This role demands a seasoned professional with a deep understanding of the CRO landscape, a proven track record of leadership in clinical development, and an unwavering commitment to advancing patient care through rigorous scientific inquiry. The RTP area is a global hub for life sciences, offering a rich ecosystem of talent, innovation, and collaboration, making this role strategically significant within the industry.

As VP of Clinical Research, you will be a key member of the executive leadership team, responsible for overseeing all aspects of clinical trial execution, from study design and protocol development to data analysis, reporting, and regulatory submissions. Your leadership will directly impact the efficiency, quality, and ethical conduct of clinical research programs, ensuring that studies are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest scientific and regulatory standards. This role requires not only technical expertise in clinical operations but also exceptional business acumen, client relationship management skills, and the ability to inspire and mentor large, cross-functional teams.

Key Responsibilities of VP of Clinical Research (CRO) – Raleigh-Durham, NC (RTP)

• Strategic Leadership & Vision: Develop and implement the overarching clinical research strategy in alignment with the CRO’s business objectives and growth targets. Provide visionary leadership to the clinical operations department, fostering a culture of innovation, excellence, and continuous improvement. Anticipate industry trends and adapt strategies to maintain competitive advantage.
• Operational Oversight & Excellence: Oversee the planning, execution, and close-out of all clinical trials across various therapeutic areas. Ensure efficient resource allocation, robust project management, and adherence to timelines and budgets. Drive process optimization and implement best practices to enhance operational efficiency and quality outcomes.
• Regulatory Compliance & Quality Assurance: Ensure strict adherence to global regulatory requirements, including FDA regulations, EMA guidelines, and the International Council for Harmonisation of Technical Requirements for Pharmaceuticals for Human Use (ICH) Good Clinical Practice (GCP) guidelines. Champion a strong quality management system, overseeing internal and external audits, and ensuring inspection readiness.
• Team Leadership & Development: Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing team of clinical research professionals, including Clinical Project Managers, CRAs, and other operational staff. Foster a collaborative and engaging work environment that promotes professional growth, accountability, and teamwork. Implement robust performance management and talent development programs.
• Client Relationship Management & Business Development Support: Serve as a primary point of contact for key clients, building and maintaining strong, strategic partnerships. Understand client needs, provide expert consultation, and ensure high levels of client satisfaction. Collaborate with the business development team to support proposal development, bid defense meetings, and expand the CRO’s client base and service offerings.
• Budget & Financial Management: Manage the departmental budget, ensuring financial targets are met and resources are utilized effectively. Oversee project-specific budgets, ensuring profitability and cost-efficiency without compromising quality or timelines.
• Risk Management: Identify potential risks in clinical trial execution and develop proactive mitigation strategies. Ensure robust contingency planning for critical clinical programs.
• Technology & Innovation: Evaluate and implement new technologies and methodologies to enhance clinical trial efficiency, data quality, and patient engagement. Stay abreast of advancements in clinical trial design, decentralized trials, and digital health solutions.
• Cross-functional Collaboration: Work closely with other departments such as Data Management, Biostatistics, Medical Affairs, Regulatory Affairs, and Pharmacovigilance to ensure seamless integration and execution of clinical programs.
• Therapeutic Area Expertise: While not limited to one area, demonstrated experience across multiple therapeutic areas (e.g., Oncology, CNS, Cardiovascular, Rare Diseases, Infectious Diseases) is highly desirable, showcasing versatility and broad expertise.

Requirements for the VP of Clinical Research (CRO) – Raleigh-Durham, NC (RTP)

• Education: An advanced degree (MD, PhD, PharmD, or Master’s in a related scientific field) is highly preferred. A Bachelor’s degree in Life Sciences, Nursing, or a related discipline is required.
• Experience: Minimum of 15+ years of progressive experience in clinical research, with at least 8-10 years in a leadership role within a Contract Research Organization (CRO). Extensive experience managing large-scale, complex clinical trials across multiple phases and therapeutic areas is essential.
• CRO Expertise: Deep understanding of the CRO business model, including client relationships, operational processes, financial drivers, and competitive landscape. Proven ability to operate effectively within a fast-paced, client-centric environment.
• Leadership & Management Skills: Demonstrated success in leading, motivating, and developing large, diverse teams of clinical research professionals. Exceptional ability to inspire confidence, foster collaboration, and drive performance.
• Regulatory Knowledge: Comprehensive knowledge of global regulatory requirements and guidelines, including FDA, EMA, ICH-GCP, and other relevant national and international regulations. Experience with regulatory submissions and health authority interactions.
• Strategic Thinking & Business Acumen: Proven ability to develop and execute strategic plans, identify growth opportunities, and make sound business decisions. Strong financial acumen and experience with budget management.
• Communication & Interpersonal Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex scientific and operational information clearly and concisely to diverse audiences, including executive leadership, clients, and regulatory bodies. Strong negotiation and presentation skills.
• Problem-Solving & Decision-Making: Ability to analyze complex situations, identify critical issues, and implement effective solutions under pressure. Decisive and proactive in addressing challenges.
• Location: Ability to work on-site in the Raleigh-Durham / RTP, NC area. Relocation assistance may be available for exceptional candidates.

Benefits & Perks Offered

Our client offers a highly competitive compensation package commensurate with experience, including a robust base salary, performance-based bonuses, and comprehensive benefits. These include:

• Generous Paid Time Off (PTO) and company holidays.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
• 401(k) retirement plan with company match.
• Life and disability insurance.
• Opportunities for professional development, continuing education, and career advancement within a rapidly growing organization.
• A collaborative, innovative, and supportive work environment in the heart of one of the nation’s leading life science clusters.
• Wellness programs and employee assistance programs.

How to Apply

If you are a visionary leader in clinical research with a passion for driving innovation and operational excellence within the CRO sector, we invite you to explore this exceptional opportunity. JRG Partners is committed to connecting top-tier talent with industry-leading organizations.

To learn more about this role and submit your application, please visit JRG Partners’ Life Sciences Practice page. Please include a detailed resume and a cover letter outlining your relevant experience and why you are the ideal candidate for this Vice President position. We look forward to hearing from you and discussing how your expertise can contribute to the success of our client’s mission.