Project Director, Early Phase and Translational Research (EPTR)
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Skills
About the role
This position is listed on behalf of a partner company, which manages all applications and next steps. Our partner is looking for a Project Director, Early Phase and Translational Research (EPTR) based in Canada.
Are you an experienced clinical research leader ready to oversee complex clinical trial portfolios and drive operational excellence? This role offers the opportunity to lead multidisciplinary project teams and guide Project Managers responsible for studies ranging from individual service engagements to large-scale, multinational clinical programs. You will play a key role in ensuring successful project delivery, maintaining strong client relationships, and overseeing financial performance, quality, and regulatory compliance. Working in a specialized clinical research environment, you will help shape project strategies, strengthen operational processes, and identify innovative approaches to improve efficiency. You will also contribute to business development, proposal strategy, and client presentations while mentoring project management talent. This is an exciting opportunity to combine strategic leadership with hands-on expertise and make a meaningful impact on clinical research across global markets.
Accountabilities
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Portfolio and Program Leadership: Oversee a portfolio of clinical studies or large, global, multicenter trials, ensuring that Project Managers deliver projects effectively across varying levels of complexity, scope, and therapeutic focus.
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Project Delivery and Oversight: Ensure studies progress according to approved timelines, budgets, contractual commitments, quality standards, and client-specific requirements, from start-up through completion.
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Client Relationship Management: Serve as a senior point of contact for clients, maintain strong working relationships, monitor satisfaction, and communicate project progress, risks, and deliverables clearly.
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Regulatory Compliance and Quality Assurance: Ensure all projects comply with applicable standard operating procedures (SOPs), Good Clinical Practice (GCP), International Council for Harmonisation (ICH) guidelines, and relevant federal and local regulatory requirements.
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Financial and Contract Management: Oversee contractual obligations, study budgets, expenses, financial tracking, and forecasting to support sound financial performance across the assigned portfolio.
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Risk Management and Contingency Planning: Monitor project progress using timelines, tracking systems, and analytical tools. Identify potential challenges early and implement consistent risk mitigation and contingency strategies.
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Therapeutic and Operational Expertise: Maintain in-depth knowledge of assigned therapeutic areas and client requirements, applying lessons learned across projects to strengthen delivery and improve outcomes.
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Business Development and Proposal Support: Lead or contribute to proposal development, operational strategy, pricing, client presentations, and bid defense meetings, leveraging clinical and project management expertise to support business growth.
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Operational Excellence and Innovation: Drive continuous improvement, operational efficiencies, and innovative project delivery approaches that enhance quality, consistency, and overall performance.
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People Leadership and Development: Provide oversight, coaching, and mentorship to Project Managers, support their professional growth, and contribute to leadership initiatives within the project management function.
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Education: A bachelor's degree in science or a relevant discipline is required. A master's degree is considered an asset. Project Management Professional (PMP) or PRINCE2 certification is also an advantage.
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Industry Experience: At least 15 years of experience in the clinical research industry, including a minimum of five years working within a Contract Research Organization (CRO).