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 excellent career advancement opportunities.
- 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 in London 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 in London
✨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. Be ready to discuss how you've tackled challenges in previous roles — real-life examples will make you stand out!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just apply anywhere; focus on companies that align with your values and career goals. Check out our website for openings that excite you, and tailor your approach to show why you’re the perfect fit for us.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can go a long way in keeping you top of mind. Use this opportunity to reiterate your enthusiasm for the role and how you can contribute to the team.
We think you need these skills to ace Associate Director, SSUL, Feasibility & Site Activation in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the specific skills and experiences that match the Associate Director role. 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:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about clinical trial activation and how your background aligns with our mission at StudySmarter. Be sure to mention your experience with ethics and regulatory submissions.
Showcase Your Communication Skills:Since this role involves working with diverse teams, make sure to demonstrate your strong communication skills in your application. Share examples of how you've conveyed complex information clearly in past roles.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for the best chance of getting noticed. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and ensure it reaches the right people!
How to prepare for a job interview at Merck Healthcare
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of clinical trial activation and the specific regulatory requirements relevant to the role. Familiarise yourself with ICH Good Clinical Practice and any applicable EU directives, as these will likely come up during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare to discuss your hands-on experience in global study start-up leadership. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've developed country- and site-specific start-up strategies, managed risks, and resolved challenges in previous roles.
✨Communicate Clearly
Since strong communication skills are essential for this role, practice conveying complex information in a clear and concise manner. Think about how you can explain your past experiences to diverse audiences, including cross-functional teams and external partners.
✨Be Organised and Proactive
Demonstrate your organisational skills by preparing a list of your competing priorities and how you manage them. Discuss your approach to contingency planning and how you proactively identify and resolve start-up challenges in a multi-stakeholder environment.
