At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead clinical operations and ensure high-quality delivery of clinical trials.
- Company: Richmond Pharmacology, a pioneering Clinical Research Organisation in London.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, private medical and dental, pension, and 25 days annual leave.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with opportunities for professional growth and collaboration.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in clinical research and lead innovative trial delivery.
- Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in Life Sciences and 15 years of operations leadership experience.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 100000 £ per year.
Richmond Pharmacology are an early phase Clinical Research Organisation (CRO), where we are conducting pioneering early phase healthy participants and patient participant trials. Our experienced and world‐renowned team, our central London location and our global reach contribute to making Richmond Pharmacology an exciting and dynamic place to work.
Purpose of the job
The Director of Operations is accountable for a significant proportion of the operational activity required to deliver clinical trials at Richmond. This role leads Clinical Operations, Laboratory Services, Data Science, Catering, Clinical Project Delivery, and Acute Clinical Management, ensuring these functions operate in a coordinated and aligned way to support high-quality project delivery. The focus is to ensure that these operational areas run safely, compliantly, efficiently, and effectively, with engaged teams and a relentless focus on improving how work gets done. This is a leadership role. The Director sets direction, creates clarity, and holds leaders accountable for delivering excellence across their areas, while working closely with other Directors to ensure end-to-end trial success.
Operational Leadership and Performance
- Own performance and delivery across assigned operational functions
- Ensure operational delivery is efficient, coordinated, and aligned to study requirements
- Work in partnership with peers and seniors to enable end-to-end study delivery
- Reduce friction between functions and improve ways of working
- Ensure clear accountability for outcomes within and across functions
Participant Safety and Regulatory Compliance
- Ensure all operational areas meet the highest standards of participant safety
- Maintain regulatory compliance across all accountable functions
- Embed a culture where safety and quality are non-negotiable
- Ensure ongoing inspection readiness
Project Delivery
- Support the effective delivery of clinical trials through strong operational execution
- Improve predictability, timelines, and quality of delivery within accountable areas
- Reduce delays, rework, and operational inefficiencies
- Strengthen ownership and accountability at the project level
Functional Leadership
- Clinical Operations
- Laboratory Services
- Data Science (data management and statistics)
- Clinical Project Delivery
- Acute Clinical Management
- Catering
Ensure each function is high performing, well-structured, and clearly aligned to shared goals. Build strong collaboration across functions and with the wider organisation.
Continuous Improvement and Operational Excellence
- Drive continuous improvement across operational processes and systems
- Identify and eliminate inefficiencies and duplication
- Use data and insight to prioritise improvements
- Promote smarter, simpler ways of working, including use of technology where appropriate
People Leadership and Capability
- Lead and develop a high‐performing leadership team
- Set clear expectations and hold leaders accountable for delivery and behaviour
- Build capability and succession across functions
- Ensure teams are structured to deliver sustainably and effectively
Financial and Operational Efficiency
- Support strong financial performance through efficient operational delivery
- Contribute to budgeting and performance tracking across functions
- Ensure resources are deployed effectively without compromising quality or safety
Strategic Contribution
- Contribute to organisational strategy and growth plans
- Ensure operational capability supports increasingly complex and high‐value studies
- Support Richmond's ambition to be a partner of choice for early‐phase clinical research
Skills and Experience
- Bachelor's degree in Life Sciences, Pharmacy, Medicine, or related discipline.
- Strong working knowledge of GCP and clinical trial regulations
- Strong background in data‐driven decision‐making and performance management.
- Minimum 15 years of progressive operations leadership experience, with at least 5 years in senior management roles.
- Senior leadership experience in clinical research
- Strong understanding of clinical trial delivery and regulatory requirements
- Proven ability to manage audits and regulatory inspections successfully
- Track record of reducing delays, rework, or inefficiencies
- Proven ability to lead and develop multidisciplinary teams
- Strong stakeholder management skills, including interaction with cross‐functional teams, boards and regulatory bodies
- Ability to operate effectively in a matrix environment
- Data‐driven and outcome‐focused
Head of Clinical Operations & Trial Delivery Excellence in London employer: Job Search Place Limited
Richmond Pharmacology is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in the heart of London Bridge, where innovation in early phase clinical trials thrives. With a strong commitment to employee well-being, we provide competitive benefits including private medical and dental care, generous annual leave, and opportunities for professional growth within a collaborative and high-performing team. Join us to be part of a pioneering organisation that values safety, quality, and continuous improvement in clinical research.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Clinical Operations & Trial Delivery Excellence in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the clinical research field, attend industry events, and engage on platforms like LinkedIn. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can help you land that dream job.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching Richmond Pharmacology inside out. Understand their values, recent projects, and how they operate. We want to see you shine by showing that you’re genuinely interested in being part of their team!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to articulate your experience and how it aligns with the role of Director of Operations. We suggest rehearsing with a friend or in front of a mirror to boost your confidence before the big day.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can go a long way in leaving a positive impression. We believe it shows your enthusiasm and professionalism, which are key traits for a leadership role.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Clinical Operations & Trial Delivery Excellence in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the role of Director of Operations. Highlight your experience in clinical trials and operational leadership, and don’t forget to showcase your data-driven decision-making skills!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re the perfect fit for Richmond Pharmacology. Mention specific achievements that align with the job description and show us your passion for clinical research.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:Since this is a leadership role, make sure to emphasise your experience in leading teams and driving performance. Share examples of how you've improved operational efficiency and fostered collaboration across functions.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and keep track of all the amazing candidates like you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Job Search Place Limited
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of clinical trial regulations and GCP. Richmond Pharmacology is looking for someone with a strong background in these areas, so be prepared to discuss how you've applied this knowledge in your previous roles.
✨Showcase Leadership Skills
As a Director of Operations, you'll need to demonstrate your leadership capabilities. Think of specific examples where you've led teams to success, improved operational efficiency, or driven continuous improvement. Be ready to share these stories during the interview.
✨Understand the Company Culture
Richmond Pharmacology values collaboration and high-quality project delivery. Research their culture and think about how your values align with theirs. Be prepared to discuss how you can contribute to fostering a positive and efficient work environment.
✨Prepare Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare insightful questions about the company's strategic goals, challenges in clinical operations, and how they measure success. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
