Clinical Director – Early Phase Expertise

Medicines Evaluation Unit

Office based at our Manchester Site.

The Medicines Evaluation Unit (MEU) Ltd, an IQVIA business, is one of the UK’s leading contract research organisations, and a facility where commitment to excellence is paramount. Possessing extensive pharmaceutical, scientific and clinical expertise, allied with fast volunteer recruitment, both healthy and patient, within a state-of-the-art hospital based research facility, enables the MEU to offer clients positive clinical trial solutions. We are seeking an experienced Clinical Operations Director to lead and inspire a team within our Early Phase unit. This pivotal role combines strategic leadership with scientific expertise, ensuring operational excellence and client engagement across the portfolio of trials including first-in-human studies.

Job Overview

You will oversee a local office-based team of clinical professionals, including feasibility, strategy, operations and clinical, ensuring projects are resourced effectively and delivered to the highest standards.

Align operational goals with corporate priorities and drive strategic initiatives that enhance efficiency and quality across clinical programs.

This is a hands-on leadership role requiring strong business acumen and deep understanding of pharmacology and early-phase drug development.

You will act as a key liaison with sponsors, guiding protocol design, advising on compound behavior, and ensuring seamless collaboration between clinical and operational teams.

Oversee hiring, onboarding, and training processes to build high-performing teams.

Evaluate workload, quality, and budget metrics; implement process improvements to optimise outcomes.

Represent the unit at conferences and in customer meetings to support early engagement and business development, ultimately leading to new business awards.

Serve as a scientific advisor to sponsors and internal teams, providing insights on pharmacology and protocol feasibility.

Requirements

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in a scientific discipline or healthcare field (advanced degree preferred).
• Experience: Minimum 10 years in clinical trials, including leadership roles; strong background in Phase I and pharmacology essential.
• Advanced knowledge of GCP/ICH guidelines and regulatory requirements.
• Proven ability to manage budgets and understand clinical research financial parameters.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite; strong organizational and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment and manage competing priorities.

Why IQVIA

• Work at the forefront of early-phase clinical research.
• Collaborate with world-class experts and innovative technologies.
• Enjoy global exposure and clear career progression opportunities.
• Competitive compensation and relocation support available.

Ready to make an impact? Apply today and help us advance the science of human health.

IQVIA is a leading global provider of clinical research services, commercial insights and healthcare intelligence to the life sciences and healthcare industries. We create intelligent connections to accelerate the development and commercialization of innovative medical treatments to help improve patient outcomes and population health worldwide. Learn more at https://jobs.iqvia.com