Job Title: Clinical Operations Lead (UK Site-Facing)
Location: Hertfordshire (Hybrid – 2 days/week in office, flexible for right candidate)
Contract Type: 6-Month Contract (Inside IR35)
Hours: Full-time, 37.5 hours/week
Start Date: ASAP (1-month notice period acceptable)
Role Overview:
We are seeking an experienced Clinical Operations Lead (COL) for a 6-month contract position focused on UK-based clinical study operations. This is a country site-facing role, requiring deep familiarity with study start-up, contracts and costing templates, and UK R&D practices. Candidates with recent experience in the setup and activation of studies within the UK will be highly preferred.
While global study experience is welcome, the emphasis for this role is local UK study execution, especially during early-phase startup activities.
Key Responsibilities:
* Lead operational delivery for UK-based clinical studies, with a focus on startup and site activation.
* Serve as a primary point of contact for UK sites, ensuring alignment on study goals, timelines, and deliverables.
* Manage and support contracts and costing templates, working closely with legal and R&D teams.
* Oversee feasibility, site selection, regulatory submissions, and activation processes within the UK.
* Collaborate cross-functionally with study teams to ensure smooth and compliant study execution.
* Monitor study progress and escalate risks or delays affecting timelines.
* Conduct site visits as needed to support operational oversight and relationship management.
Requirements:
* 3+ years’ experience in clinical operations, preferably as a Clinical Operations Lead or equivalent.
* Proven track record in UK-specific study setup and execution (site-facing experience is essential).
* Knowledge of UK R&D landscape, NHS site contracts, and budget negotiation.
* Experience with contracts, budgets, costing templates, and UK regulatory frameworks.
* Strong stakeholder management and communication skills.
* Startup Specialist experience is a plus, but not mandatory.
* Must be available to start within 1 month.