At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the development of proposals and contracts in a dynamic global CRO.
- Company: Join Optimapharm, a growing Contract Research Organisation making a real impact in clinical development.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, performance bonuses, and a fast-paced career progression.
- Other info: Remote-friendly role with opportunities for training and process improvement.
- Why this job: Make a difference in clinical trials while working with experienced professionals across Europe.
- Qualifications: 4+ years in CRO or pharma with strong proposal and contract management skills.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 65000 € per year.
This role is open to applicants located anywhere in Europe (remote-friendly).
Who we are? Optimapharm is a mid‑size, global Contract Research Organisation (CRO) turning science into hope through agile, patient‑focused clinical development. We specialise in Phase I–IV clinical studies, delivering Full‑Service and Functional Service Provision (FSP) solutions that help sponsors move faster and execute with confidence. With operations in 40+ countries and 2x the patient reach of the average mid‑size CRO, we enable accelerated regulatory pathways, faster study start‑up, and access to diverse patient populations worldwide.
As a Proposals & Contracts Manager at Optimapharm, you will lead the development of high‑quality proposals and contracts while taking full ownership of complex commercial activities within a global CRO. This opportunity is ideal for an experienced professional ready to step into a Manager role, expand their impact, and work closely with Business Development and cross‑functional teams to drive Optimapharm’s continued growth.
What do we offer?
- Working in a successful company that’s growing and developing every day
- Working with a highly experienced team of clinical research professionals
- Employee engagement programs
- Well‑being initiatives
- Training and development program
- Fast‑paced career path progression
- Performance bonus
- Referral bonus
- Additional location‑specific benefits
Qualifications and Experience
- A university degree in life sciences, business, finance, economics, law, or a related field
- 4+ years of experience in a CRO (or pharma/biotech) within proposals, contracts, budgets, or commercial operations
- Hands‑on experience preparing and managing client proposals, contracts, budgets, and change orders, with growing autonomy
- Proven ability to manage complex proposals and contracts independently, including change orders
- Solid understanding of clinical trial costing, margins, and commercial compliance
- Experience working closely with Business Development and senior stakeholders
- Strong organisational and prioritisation skills, with confidence managing multiple deadlines
- A proactive and solution‑oriented mindset, with interest in improving processes and ways of working
- Excellent written and spoken English; additional languages are an advantage
- Proficiency in MS Office; experience with CRM or contract management systems (e.g. Salesforce) is a plus
Your responsibilities
- Lead the development and execution of client proposals, contracts, budgets, and change orders with a high level of autonomy
- Manage multiple complex commercial opportunities in parallel, ensuring accuracy, consistency, and timely delivery
- Act as a key commercial partner to Business Development, supporting RFIs, RFPs, proposals, bid responses, and contract finalisation
- Collaborate closely with Project Management and operational teams to define scope, pricing, and commercial strategy
- Ensure all commercial documentation complies with Optimapharm SOPs, policies, and applicable local and international regulations
- Proactively drive process improvement initiatives within the Proposals & Contracts function
- Contribute to maintaining high standards for client‑facing quality and Optimapharm’s commercial positioning
Compensation is competitive and final offers will reflect each candidate’s experience, skills, and qualifications.
Proposals & Contracts Manager (m/f/d) employer: Optimapharm
Optimapharm is an exceptional employer that fosters a dynamic and supportive work culture, offering remote-friendly opportunities across Europe. With a strong focus on employee growth through comprehensive training and development programmes, as well as performance bonuses and well-being initiatives, we empower our team to thrive in their careers while making a meaningful impact in the clinical research field.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Proposals & Contracts Manager (m/f/d)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, attend virtual events, and engage on platforms like LinkedIn. We can’t stress enough how personal connections can open doors to opportunities that aren’t even advertised.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its culture. We recommend practising common interview questions and tailoring your answers to highlight your experience in proposals and contracts management. Show them you’re the perfect fit for their team!
✨Tip Number 3
Follow up after interviews! A simple thank-you email can go a long way. It shows your enthusiasm for the role and keeps you fresh in their minds. We believe it’s a great way to reinforce your interest and professionalism.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’ve got a streamlined application process that makes it easy for you to showcase your skills. Plus, it helps us keep track of your application better. Let’s get you that dream job!
We think you need these skills to ace Proposals & Contracts Manager (m/f/d)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Proposals & Contracts Manager role. Highlight your relevant experience in proposals, contracts, and commercial operations, and show us how you can bring value to Optimapharm.
Showcase Your Skills:Don’t just list your qualifications; demonstrate how your skills align with the job description. Use specific examples from your past work to illustrate your ability to manage complex proposals and collaborate with cross-functional teams.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured documents that are easy to read. Avoid jargon unless it’s relevant to the role, and make sure your passion for clinical research shines through!
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 proactive and keen to join our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Optimapharm
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of clinical trials, proposals, and contracts. Familiarise yourself with Optimapharm's services and how they stand out in the CRO market. This will show that you're genuinely interested and ready to contribute.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past roles where you've successfully managed complex proposals or contracts. Highlight your experience in collaborating with Business Development and how you've driven process improvements. This will demonstrate your capability for the role.
✨Ask Smart Questions
Come prepared with insightful questions about Optimapharm’s approach to client proposals and their growth strategy. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if the company aligns with your career goals.
✨Be Proactive and Solution-Oriented
During the interview, share instances where you've taken initiative to solve problems or improve processes. Emphasising your proactive mindset will resonate well with the company's focus on agility and patient-centric development.
