Senior Manager, Clinical Partner Outsourcing | Clinical Procurement | Contract & Supplier Management | R&D Clinical

Senior Manager, Clinical Partner Outsourcing

Role Overview

Senior-level role within a global R&D clinical operations environment. Responsible for clinical study outsourcing, supplier contracts, and commercial governance. Ensures timely study delivery with strong financial discipline and compliance. Works cross-functionally across clinical operations, procurement, and study teams. Hybrid / remote flexibility depending on location (Cambridge, MA base).

Clinical Contracts & Outsourcing

• Develop and finalise study-level contracts and change orders aligned to Master Service Agreements
• Lead commercial structuring, contracting, and supplier negotiations across CROs and vendors
• Translate clinical study requirements into robust commercial agreements
• Manage contract amendments throughout the study lifecycle
• Support study closeout and final financial reconciliation

Financial & Commercial Management

• Build and validate cost models and pricing assumptions for clinical studies
• Generate cost estimates to support study planning and budgeting
• Ensure fiscal discipline across outsourced clinical operations
• Oversee alignment between contractual terms and operational execution

Supplier & Stakeholder Management

• Drive negotiations with CROs and clinical suppliers to optimise commercial terms
• Resolve operational and contractual issues in collaboration with study teams
• Escalate risks and manage contingency planning where required
• Maintain strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders

Governance, Compliance & Process Improvement

• Ensure compliance with internal policies, GCP, ICH guidelines, and regulatory standards
• Support inspection readiness for regulated clinical activities
• Identify industry best practices through benchmarking and continuous improvement
• Lead or support strategic initiatives and operational improvements

• Bachelor's degree required (advanced degree such as MBA preferred)
• 7+ years' experience in pharmaceutical, clinical research, or R&D outsourcing
• Strong background in clinical procurement, supplier management, or contract negotiation
• Deep understanding of clinical trial processes and regulatory frameworks
• Experience with CRO models, clinical budgets, and commercial structures
• Strong financial analysis and cost modelling capability
• Knowledge of GCP and ICH guidelines
• Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills
• Strong strategic thinking and project management ability

Work Environment

• Global pharmaceutical R&D organisation
• High-complexity clinical trial outsourcing and procurement environment
• Cross-functional collaboration across clinical operations, finance, and vendors
• Strong regulatory and compliance-driven structure
• Fast-paced, multi-study portfolio management environment