At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the study start-up process for innovative clinical trials and drive impactful healthcare solutions.
- Company: Global leader in healthcare, life sciences, and electronics with a diverse and inclusive culture.
- Benefits: Hybrid work model, personal development opportunities, and a commitment to inclusion.
- Other info: Join a passionate team dedicated to innovation and human progress.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in patients' lives while working with cutting-edge science and technology.
- Qualifications: Experience in clinical research and strong communication skills are essential.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 € per year.
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Our colleagues across the globe love innovating with science and technology to enrich people's lives with our solutions in Healthcare, Life Science, and Electronics. Together, we dream big and are passionate about caring for our rich mix of people, customers, patients, and planet. That's why we are always looking for curious minds that see themselves imagining the unimaginable with us.
United As One for Patients, our purpose in Healthcare is to help create, improve and prolong lives. We develop medicines, intelligent devices and innovative technologies in therapeutic areas such as Oncology, Neurology and Fertility. Our teams work together across 6 continents with passion and relentless curiosity in order to help patients at every stage of life. Joining our Healthcare team is becoming part of a diverse, inclusive and flexible working culture, presenting great opportunities for personal development and career advancement across the globe.
Your Role
Clinical trial activation is one of the most critical drivers of bringing new therapies to patients - and in this role, you will be at the heart of it. As a Study Start-Up Lead within our Research and Development organisation, you will own and drive the end-to-end study start-up process across a diverse and complex clinical portfolio, from country and site identification through to site activation. You will develop and execute the Study Start-Up Operational Plan, set clear delivery expectations, and ensure that timelines, metrics, and reporting are consistently met across all assigned studies.
Working closely with Clinical Trial Leads, Functional Leads, and local team members, you will proactively identify and resolve start-up challenges, coordinate feasibility efforts, and partner with the Operational Design Center on country and site selection. You will lead the ethics and regulatory submission strategy - including preparation of the CTIS Part 2 packages - and oversee the Essential Document Package process to ensure full alignment at both study and local level for site activation. You will also work closely with the site budget development and contract negotiations team, to deliver best-in-class site activations timelines.
Who You Are
- Substantial experience in clinical research, including significant hands‑on expertise in global study start‑up leadership within a pharmaceutical, biotechnology, or contract research organisation environment.
- In‑depth knowledge of international regulatory requirements and guidelines, including International Council for Harmonisation Good Clinical Practice and applicable European Union directives.
- Proven expertise in central and local ethics committee submission processes across multiple countries, with regulatory affairs knowledge considered a strong advantage.
- Demonstrated ability to develop country‑ and site‑specific start‑up strategies, manage risk proactively, and apply contingency planning in complex, multi‑stakeholder environments.
- Experience coordinating site budget development and contract negotiations with internal and external parties.
- Strong communication skills with the ability to convey complex information clearly to diverse audiences, including cross‑functional teams and external partners.
- Highly organised, with the ability to manage competing priorities independently and collaborate effectively within a cross‑functional, international team structure.
Location
Feltham, United Kingdom | Hybrid - minimum 3 days per week on-site. This role can also be based in Germany, Poland or Greece - minimum 3 days per week on-site.
What we offer
We are curious minds that come from a broad range of backgrounds, perspectives, and life experiences. We believe that this variety drives excellence and innovation, strengthening our ability to lead in science and technology. We are committed to creating access and opportunities for all to develop and grow at your own pace. Join us in building a culture of inclusion and belonging that impacts millions and empowers everyone to work their magic and champion human progress!
Apply now and become a part of a team that is dedicated to Sparking Discovery and Elevating Humanity!
Associate Director, SSUL, Feasibility & Site Activation in London employer: Merck Group
As an Associate Director in our Healthcare team, you will thrive in a dynamic and inclusive work culture that values innovation and personal growth. With a commitment to diversity and flexibility, we offer exceptional opportunities for career advancement while working collaboratively to improve lives through cutting-edge solutions in healthcare. Join us in Feltham, where your contributions will directly impact patient outcomes and be part of a global team dedicated to making a difference.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Associate Director, SSUL, Feasibility & Site Activation in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect with potential colleagues on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its culture. Understand their mission and values, especially how they relate to healthcare and innovation. This will help you tailor your answers and show that you're genuinely interested in working with us.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain your experience and how it aligns with the role of Associate Director, SSUL. Highlight your leadership skills and any relevant projects you've managed in clinical research to make a lasting impression.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team and contributing to our mission of improving lives.
We think you need these skills to ace Associate Director, SSUL, Feasibility & Site Activation in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:Let us see your enthusiasm for the role! Share why you're excited about clinical trial activation and how you can contribute to our mission of improving lives. A personal touch goes a long way!
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in clinical research and study start-up leadership. We want to see how your background aligns with our needs, so don’t be shy about showcasing your achievements!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to tell your story. Use it to explain how your skills and experiences make you the perfect fit for this role. Keep it engaging and concise – we love a good read!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and our company culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at Merck Group
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your clinical research knowledge, especially around global study start-up processes. Familiarise yourself with the regulatory requirements and guidelines mentioned in the job description, as this will show that you're serious about the role.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past roles that highlight your hands-on expertise in study start-up leadership. Be ready to discuss how you've tackled challenges in multi-stakeholder environments and what strategies you've implemented to ensure successful site activations.
✨Communicate Clearly
Practice conveying complex information in a straightforward manner. Since strong communication skills are essential for this role, consider doing mock interviews with friends or colleagues to refine your ability to explain your experiences and ideas clearly.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the company's approach to clinical trial activation and how they foster collaboration within cross-functional teams. This not only shows your interest in the role but also helps you gauge if the company culture aligns with your values.
