Clinical Research Site Director

Job title: Clinical Research Site Director

Location: Mesquite, TX (Relocation candidates will be considered; Texas-based candidates preferred)

A growing, physician‑led clinical research site in the Dallas–Fort Worth area is conducting a confidential search for an experienced Clinical Research Site Director to lead operations at a high‑performing, single‑site research organization.

This is a pivotal leadership opportunity for a seasoned research professional who is ready to step into a true operational leadership role — partnering directly with the Principal Investigator (PI) to drive site performance, sponsor relationships, and long‑term expansion strategy.

The site is led by an experienced and well‑respected Principal Investigator who currently serves as the primary PI across multiple active trials. With a strong internal team already in place — including 12 CRCs, regulatory staff, laboratory personnel, and administrative support — the organization is seeking a strategic operational leader who can elevate execution, streamline processes, and serve as the external‑facing representative to sponsors and CROs.

The current structure includes an acting site manager; however, this role is designed to establish a more strategic Head of Operations who can fully oversee study conduct, financial oversight, and business development initiatives, allowing the PI to focus on patient care and scientific leadership.

This is a family‑operated organization with strong values, long‑term vision, and plans for future satellite site expansion.

• Provide full operational oversight of all clinical trials at the site
• Lead, mentor, and manage cross‑functional research staff (CRCs, regulatory, lab, front office)
• Oversee study start‑up through close‑out, ensuring compliance and performance excellence
• Manage study budgets, contract negotiations, and financial forecasting
• Conduct and lead feasibility assessments (FQs)
• Serve as the primary liaison to sponsors and CROs
• Identify and cultivate business development opportunities
• Implement operational efficiencies and scalable processes
• Partner with ownership on strategic growth initiatives, including future satellite expansion

• 7+ years of clinical research experience with progressive operational leadership
• Prior experience as a Site Director, Senior Clinical Research Manager, or equivalent
• Strong understanding of study budgets, contracts, and sponsor negotiations
• Experience running multiple concurrent trials
• Demonstrated ability to lead and scale teams
• Strong sponsor‑facing presence and communication skills
• Entrepreneurial mindset with interest in long‑term growth
• Willingness to relocate to the Dallas–Fort Worth area (if not local)

Candidates who bring both hands‑on study leadership experience and a strategic mindset will thrive in this environment.

• Direct partnership with an experienced, respected PI
• Established infrastructure and strong study pipeline
• Opportunity to build and formalize operational leadership
• Strategic input into site expansion and growth
• Competitive compensation structure
• Long‑term leadership track within a growing organization