Associate Director – Early Phase Strategy

This is a fully remote position, open to applicants in Australia.

📋 Description

• Take ownership of the strategic assessment for Early Phase business opportunities from the receipt of RFPs through the award process.

• Collaborate with Proposal Management to assess Early Phase opportunities and offer bid/no-bid recommendations.

• Create thorough Early Phase study strategies, which include: Country and site selection methods, Investigator/site engagement plans, Considerations for patient recruitment, Study timelines and operational assumptions, Resource modeling and delivery strategies, Identification and mitigation of operational risks.

• Interact with Early Phase sites, investigators, and internal experts to confirm feasibility and enhance proposals.

• Offer strategic insights to the VP of Early Phase, Business Development, and executive teams.

• Oversee the Early Phase operational strategy aspect of RFP responses.

• Collaborate with Proposal teams to craft high-quality client proposals.

• Evaluate proposal budgets, timelines, assumptions, and delivery models to ensure alignment with strategy.

• Contribute to pricing strategies and commercial positioning.

• Assist in preparing and delivering bid defense meetings and client presentations.

• Serve as an Early Phase Subject Matter Expert (SME) during client meetings and strategic discussions.

• Support sponsor discussions regarding study design, operational feasibility, recruitment strategies, and delivery methods.

• Cultivate strong relationships with investigators, Early Phase sites, and industry partners.

• Represent Emerald at conferences, industry events, and client engagements as needed.

• Develop and maintain Early Phase strategy tools and resources, which include: Early Phase databases, Site and investigator intelligence, Capability materials, Proposal content libraries, Market intelligence.

• Collaborate with Business Development and Marketing to enhance Emerald’s Early Phase positioning.

• Identify opportunities for process improvements, tool enhancements, and innovative work methods.

• Establish scalable Early Phase strategy processes and governance structures.

• Mentor and cultivate future members of the Early Phase Strategy team as the function expands.

• Aid in the advancement of Emerald’s Early Phase strategy capabilities.

⛳️ Requirements

• Minimum of 8 years of experience in a CRO, biotech, pharmaceutical, or Early Phase clinical research setting.

• Familiarity with the complete opportunity lifecycle, from initial client interaction and RFP evaluation to study award, including Phase I to Phase IIa clinical programs.

• Proven track record in supporting and/or conducting Early Phase studies, with strong knowledge of Early Phase capabilities in Australia/New Zealand; experience in other global regions is a plus.

• Demonstrated expertise in developing clinical trial strategies that balance scientific goals, operational feasibility, patient/site considerations, timelines, and commercial needs.

• Strong comprehension of Early Phase operations, project delivery models, and the practical execution requirements necessary for successfully delivering complex clinical studies.

• Outstanding communication, influencing, and stakeholder management abilities, with the credibility to challenge assumptions and sway senior-level decisions.

• Proficiency in operational risk assessment, scenario planning, feasibility evaluation, and creating compelling strategic narratives.

• Proven ability to manage and prioritize a portfolio of opportunities with competing timelines, stakeholder expectations, and business priorities.

• Experience collaborating with Business Development, Proposal, Operations, Project Management, and functional teams to create client-oriented solutions.

🏝️ Benefits

• Competitive Compensation: A tailored salary and benefits package designed to reflect your skills and experience.

• Flexibility: Enjoy hybrid or remote working arrangements based on your location and role.

• Career Growth: Access to numerous learning opportunities and a global network of scientific leaders to foster your development.

• Employee Wellbeing: Engage in programs and initiatives aimed at promoting work-life balance, health, and team cohesion, including global engagement surveys, recognition programs, and team-building events.

• Global Opportunities: Join a company with a worldwide presence, providing exposure to diverse projects and clients.