At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the study start-up process for clinical trials, ensuring timely activation and compliance.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking pharmaceutical company dedicated to patient access and innovation.
- Benefits: Hybrid work model, inclusive culture, and opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Other info: Work in a dynamic, international team with a focus on collaboration and impact.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in bringing new therapies to patients while developing your career.
- Qualifications: Experience in clinical research and strong communication skills are essential.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
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 organization, 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 activation 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 organization environment.
- In‑depth knowledge of international regulatory requirements and guidelines, including ICH 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 organized, 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 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.
Associate Director, SSUL, Feasibility & Site Activation employer: Merck Healthcare
As an Associate Director in our Research and Development team, you will be part of a dynamic and inclusive work culture that prioritises employee growth and development. With a commitment to fostering a diverse environment, we offer unique opportunities for professional advancement while working on impactful clinical trials that bring new therapies to patients. Our Feltham location provides a hybrid work model, allowing for flexibility and collaboration within a supportive team dedicated to excellence in study start-up processes.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Associate Director, SSUL, Feasibility & Site Activation
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the clinical research field and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. You never know who might have the inside scoop on a role that’s perfect for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of regulatory requirements and site activation processes. We recommend practising common interview questions with a friend or even in front of the mirror to boost your confidence.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your expertise! During interviews, be ready to discuss specific challenges you've faced in study start-up and how you overcame them. This will demonstrate your problem-solving skills and hands-on experience.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Associate Director, SSUL, Feasibility & Site Activation
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the specific skills and experiences mentioned in the job description. Highlight your hands-on expertise in global study start-up leadership and any relevant regulatory knowledge to catch our eye!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to tell us why you're passionate about clinical trial activation. Share examples of how you've tackled challenges in previous roles, especially in coordinating site budgets or managing complex stakeholder environments.
Showcase Your Communication Skills:Since strong communication is key for this role, consider including examples of how you've effectively conveyed complex information to diverse audiences. This will help us see how you can fit into our cross-functional teams.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows us you’re keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Merck Healthcare
✨Know Your Clinical Research Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of clinical research, especially global study start-up processes. Be ready to discuss your hands-on experience and how it aligns with the role's requirements. This will show that you’re not just familiar with the basics but have a deep understanding of what it takes to drive successful study start-ups.
✨Master the Regulatory Landscape
Familiarise yourself with international regulatory requirements and guidelines, particularly ICH Good Clinical Practice and EU directives. Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've navigated these regulations in past roles. This will demonstrate your expertise and reassure the interviewers that you can handle the complexities of ethics and regulatory submissions.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Since this role involves working with diverse teams and external partners, practice articulating complex information clearly. Think of examples where you successfully communicated across different stakeholders. This will highlight your ability to convey important details effectively, which is crucial for site activation success.
✨Be Organised and Proactive
Prepare to discuss how you manage competing priorities and proactively identify risks. Bring examples of how you've developed country- and site-specific start-up strategies in the past. This will illustrate your organisational skills and your ability to think ahead, which are key for managing timelines and ensuring smooth operations.
