Trial Vendor Associate Director

About the role

The Trial Vendor Associate Director will lead vendor management activities across the lifecycle of clinical studies, ensuring quality, cost‑control and timely delivery of services. Reporting to the study team lead, the role partners with procurement, cross‑functional teams and external suppliers to support trial execution.

Key responsibilities

• Collaborate closely with study team lead and members throughout the study lifecycle.
• Review vendor‑related protocol sections during protocol development.
• Manage vendor interfaces and support contract negotiations in collaboration with procurement.
• Oversee vendor cost control, budget reviews, invoice reconciliation and PO close‑out.
• Ensure vendor service excellence, maintaining quality and service standards at the study level.
• Drive site activation, compile central documents and address risks/issues during site activation.
• Conduct user‑acceptance testing (UAT) for eCOA and IRT systems.
• Monitor vendor‑related cycle times and risks using tools like FIRST, implementing corrective actions as needed.

Required profile

• 5+ years of experience in clinical operations and vendor management.
• Strong understanding of GxP and ICH regulations.
• Solid knowledge of clinical trial design and alignment to supplier requirements.
• Proven expertise in vendor management, including outsourcing, contracting and sourcing clinical services.
• Results‑oriented with a track record of completing projects on time.
• Ability to collaborate effectively in cross‑functional, matrixed environments.
• Strong influencing, negotiation, communication and problem‑solving skills.

Required skills

• eCOA
• IRT
• User Acceptance Testing (UAT)
• FIRST (vendor performance monitoring tool)

What we offer

• Comprehensive benefits and rewards as described in the Novartis Life Handbook.
• Opportunity to work for a leading global medicines company focused on innovation and patient impact.