Manager or Senior Manager R&D Clinical Operations & Portfolio Strategy within Pharma

PwC; Brussel; Hybrid; EUR 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible hybrid work patterns

Lifelong learning

Flexible rewards

Sustainable mobility

Inclusive culture

Wellbeing focus

Global PwC network

Job summary

PwC Belgium is seeking a seasoned Senior Manager to join the Advisory team within the R&D & Quality group. You will lead complex clinical operations and portfolio governance engagements for Pharma and Life Sciences clients, shaping delivery and strategic outcomes.

The role requires deep knowledge of regulatory expectations (ICH GCP, EU CTR, FDA IND), a proven consulting background, and the ability to design operating models, support digital initiatives (CTMS, eTMF, RBQM) and mentor junior staff.

Qualifications

• 7–9 years of experience in clinical operations, portfolio strategy, or related roles within Pharma or Life Sciences.
• Proven consulting or advisory background.
• Master’s degree in Life Sciences, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Biomedical Engineering, or related discipline.
• Strong working knowledge of regulatory frameworks (ICH GCP, EU CTR, global).
• Experience in Clinical Operations Excellence, Portfolio Strategy & Governance, RBQM, Digital enablement (CTMS, eTMF, analytics).

Responsibilities

• Lead and deliver complex clinical operations and portfolio strategy engagements for Pharma and Life Sciences clients.
• Provide guidance on regulatory expectations and industry best practices.
• Design, implement, and optimize operating models for clinical trial execution and governance.
• Support digital initiatives (CTMS, eTMF, analytics) and portfolio decision-making.
• Mentor junior consultants and contribute to knowledge development.

Skills

Clinical Operations

Portfolio Strategy

Governance

RBQM

Digital enablement

Education

Life Sciences Masters

Pharmaceutical Sciences

Biomedical Engineering

Tools

Veeva Vault Clinical

Medidata

Planisware

Job description

Line of Service Advisory Industry/Sector Not Applicable Specialism Operations Management Level Senior Manager

Job Description & Summary

Contribute to creating a better tomorrow The only way we can tackle the challenges of this fast-changing world is with passionate people. Led by our purpose of building trust and solving important problems, we come together at PwC to address the biggest issues facing the world in a way that drives positive impact. Are you eager to join a team fueled by open and curious minds, who are passionate about their work and create new solutions for a new day? Then you’re at the right place. Bring your talent. Learn new skills. Make a positive impact. PwC Advisory is a network of multiple possibilities - where you want to make an impact is always up to you. Under the expert stewardship of our Advisory experts, you’ll delve into the inner workings of companies to find the best solutions for any challenge they might have. From the excitement of deals to the complexities of consulting and the fascinating realm of risks and threats in forensics, you’ll help clients nurture trust and maintain their evolutionary edge, today and into the future. Now that’s making a difference.

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced and highly capable (Senior) Manager to join our Advisory team within the R&D & Quality group. This role is ideal for a seasoned professional with deep knowledge of clinical development operations, portfolio governance, strategic planning, and a background in consulting. You will lead and support a range of projects across the pharmaceutical R&D value chain, partnering closely with clients to optimise clinical trial delivery, strengthen portfolio decision-making, and enable digital transformation.

Your impact

• Lead and deliver complex clinical operations and portfolio strategy engagements for clients in Pharma and Life Sciences.
• Provide expert guidance on clinical development processes, regulatory expectations (ICH GCP, EU CTR, FDA IND), and industry best practices.
• Design, implement, and optimise operating models for clinical trial execution and portfolio governance frameworks.
• Support digital initiatives, including clinical trial management systems (CTMS), eTMF, RBQM platforms, and advanced analytics for portfolio decision-making.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to assess current-state clinical operations and develop improvement roadmaps.
• Develop proposals, statements of work, and high-quality deliverables that meet client expectations and support business development efforts.
• Build and maintain strong client relationships as a trusted advisor.
• Mentor junior consultants and contribute to knowledge development within the team.
• Stay current on regulatory trends, technology innovations, and emerging best practices in clinical operations and portfolio management.

About you

• Minimum 7–9 years of experience in clinical operations, portfolio strategy, or related roles within Pharma or Life Sciences.
• Proven background in consulting or advisory engagements.
• Master’s degree in Life Sciences, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Biomedical Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Strong working knowledge of ICH GCP, EU CTR, and global regulatory frameworks.
• Experience in at least one of the following areas: Clinical Operations Excellence, Portfolio Strategy and Governance, CRO/Vendor Management, Risk-Based Quality Management (RBQM), Digital enablement (CTMS, eTMF, analytics).
• Strong communication, facilitation, and stakeholder‑management skills.
• Ability to write compelling proposals and support business development.
• Willingness to travel occasionally for client engagements.

Preferred Skills

• Experience leading multi-disciplinary project teams.
• Familiarity with clinical technology platforms (e.g., Veeva Vault Clinical, Medidata, Planisware) and analytics solutions.
• Ability to work in dynamic, fast‑paced, client‑driven environments as you will join our fast‑growing R&D & Quality Team.

Life at PwC Belgium

• Flexible work patterns: Achieve the perfect balance between office and home life with our flexible hybrid work arrangements and family-friendly schemes.
• Lifelong learning: Grow with us! Take advantage of our diverse training opportunities and exciting career pathways to explore new disciplines and expertise.
• Flexible rewards: Tailor your benefits to suit your lifestyle with our customizable rewards plan.
• Sustainable mobility: Choose eco-friendly mobility options, from our soon-to-be fully electrified fleet to public transport, shared cars, ebikes, and more.
• Inclusive culture: Thrive in a diverse, inclusive workplace that values and celebrates every individual's contributions.
• Wellbeing focus: Enjoy a positive environment with our comprehensive wellbeing programs, engaging sports communities, and confidential support for all your professional and personal challenges.
• Global network: Expand your horizons with opportunities to work abroad and tap into extensive industry expertise within the PwC network.

Equal Opportunity Employer statement

At PwC, we are dedicated to building a diverse, inclusive, and authentic environment. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities for all candidates and employees, regardless of race, religion, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, marital status, or any other characteristic protected by law. We believe that a diverse and inclusive workplace drives innovation and strengthens our ability to serve our people, clients and communities. Join us in fostering a culture where everyone feels valued, respected and empowered to achieve their full potential.

Education (if blank, degree and/or field of study not specified)

Degrees/Field of Study required: Degrees/Field of Study preferred: Certifications (if blank, certifications not specified)

Travel Requirements Not Specified

Available for Work Visa Sponsorship? Yes Government Clearance Required? No Job Posting End Date