At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and optimise business processes for clinical development at a global biopharmaceutical company.
- Company: Ipsen, a mid-sized global biopharmaceutical leader in oncology and rare diseases.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career growth, and a culture of collaboration and innovation.
- Other info: Join a passionate team dedicated to advancing healthcare in 88 countries.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in transforming patient care through innovative medicines.
- Qualifications: 10+ years in pharma/biotech with strong leadership and compliance expertise.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 100000 £ per year.
Ipsen is a mid‑sized global biopharmaceutical company focused on transformative medicines in oncology, rare disease, and neuroscience. With nearly 100 years of development experience and global hubs in the U.S., France, and the U.K., we tackle areas of high unmet medical need through research and innovation. Our passionate teams in more than 40 countries are committed to advancing patients in 88 countries, fostering a culture of collaboration, excellence, and impact. At Ipsen, we empower individuals to grow and thrive alongside the company’s success.
Summary & Purpose of the Position
The Head of Business Enablement and Compliance (BE&C) is a critical leadership role that establishes and optimises key capabilities for IPSEN. The incumbent builds a framework for internal business process ownership, manages key clinical systems (CTMS/TMF, etc.), and ensures training and compliance support the operational backbone of Clinical Development Operations and broader IPSEN. This position reports to the Global Head of Clinical Development Operations (CDO) and leads a team of approximately six direct reports. The BE&C Head actively participates in the CDO Leadership Team, contributing cross‑functional expertise to shape CDO strategy and priorities, and partnering closely with R&D, Medical, and enabling functions to optimise capabilities for clinical trial planning, execution, close‑out, and site partnership/engagement. The incumbent brings extensive experience with ICH‑GCP, regulatory requirements, and inspection readiness, championing new ways of working across R&D/Medical, identifying opportunities and best practices to elevate IPSEN’s clinical development activities to a best‑in‑class standard.
Main Responsibilities & Technical Competencies
- Leadership
- Business Process Ownership
- Clinical Systems
- Training
- Compliance
Behavioural Competencies Required
- Drive Vision and Strategy
- Excellence in Execution
- Ensures Accountability
- Communicates Effectively
- Cultivate Innovation
- Instil Trust
Knowledge & Experience (Essential)
- Sound financial acumen
- 10+ years’ experience in a pharmaceutical/biotech industry with a track record of transformational leadership in a global cross‑functional environment
- Experience in clinical development, clinical operations, quality, compliance, or related areas
- Deep understanding of the clinical trial landscape and commitment to innovation, creativity, and operational excellence
- Extensive knowledge of drug development processes, ICH‑GCP guidelines, 21 CFR Part 11, and major Health Authority regulations
- Experience in audit/inspection readiness, preparation, and conduct
- Proven ability to provide visionary and strategic leadership
- Experience in large‑scale organisational change‑management/implementation programs
- Proven influencer and change agent with superior project management capabilities, including planning, prioritisation, problem solving, and organisational skills, adept at managing multiple priorities in a dynamic environment, and an agile mindset
- Experience managing internal stakeholders and communicating across all levels of the organisation, up to ELT level
- 6+ years’ people/project management experience (e.g., leading project teams, operational teams, cross‑functional teams through operational change and transformation)
- Extensive knowledge of Good Clinical Practice and related global regulatory and compliance requirements for clinical studies
- Strong understanding of clinical systems (eTMF, CTMS, QMS) and business process design
- Effective leadership skills and proven ability to foster team productivity and cohesiveness in a changing environment
Head of Business Enablement and Compliance employer: TechWomen4Boards t/a TECHWOMENFORBOARDS Ltd.
Ipsen is an exceptional employer that champions a culture of collaboration and innovation, making it an ideal place for professionals seeking to make a meaningful impact in the biopharmaceutical industry. With nearly 100 years of experience, Ipsen offers robust employee growth opportunities, a commitment to excellence, and a supportive environment where individuals can thrive alongside the company's success. Located in the U.K., Ipsen provides a dynamic work atmosphere that encourages creativity and operational excellence, ensuring that employees are well-equipped to tackle the challenges of clinical development.
Contact Details:
TechWomen4Boards t/a TECHWOMENFORBOARDS Ltd. Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Business Enablement and Compliance
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the biopharmaceutical industry, especially those who work at Ipsen or similar companies. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insider info that could help you stand out.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by diving deep into Ipsen's values and recent projects. Show us that you’re not just another candidate; you’re genuinely interested in how you can contribute to their mission of transforming patient care.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to articulate your experience in clinical development and compliance clearly and confidently. We want to hear how your background aligns with the role of Head of Business Enablement and Compliance.
✨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 the Ipsen team and making an impact.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Business Enablement and Compliance
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the Head of Business Enablement and Compliance role. Highlight your leadership experience, knowledge of clinical systems, and any relevant compliance expertise to catch our eye!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're passionate about the role and how your background in the pharmaceutical industry makes you the perfect fit for Ipsen. Be sure to mention specific achievements that demonstrate your transformational leadership.
Showcase Your Soft Skills:We love candidates who can communicate effectively and instil trust within their teams. Make sure to include examples of how you've driven vision and strategy, and how you've cultivated innovation in your previous roles. This will help us see your potential impact at Ipsen!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for the best chance of being noticed. It’s super easy, and you’ll be able to keep track of your application status. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage with us directly!
How to prepare for a job interview at TechWomen4Boards t/a TECHWOMENFORBOARDS Ltd.
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of ICH-GCP guidelines and the clinical trial landscape. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that you’re not just familiar with the basics, but that you truly understand the complexities involved in clinical development.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams through change or transformation in the past. Highlight your ability to communicate effectively and instil trust within your team, as this is crucial for the Head of Business Enablement and Compliance role.
✨Demonstrate Strategic Thinking
Think about how you can contribute to the CDO strategy and priorities. Be ready to discuss your vision for optimising capabilities in clinical trial planning and execution, and how you would approach fostering innovation within the team.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions that reflect your understanding of Ipsen’s goals and challenges. This could include inquiries about their current compliance processes or how they envision the future of clinical development. It shows you're engaged and genuinely interested in the role.
