Senior Project Manager, R&D: Drug Development

CSL Plasma; England; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading biotechnology firm in the United Kingdom is seeking a Project Manager to lead the operational delivery of global R&D projects. The ideal candidate has over 7 years of experience in the biotech industry and holds a bachelor's degree in a related field. Responsibilities include defining strategies, managing budgets, and leading cross-functional teams. Strong collaboration and communication skills are essential for success. Competitive benefits and support for employee wellbeing are provided.

Benefits

Health care resources

Financial protection benefits

Mental health resources

Qualifications

• 7+ years' experience in the biotechnology or pharmaceutical industry.
• 5+ years' experience as a project manager leading cross-functional teams.
• In-depth knowledge in drug research, development and manufacturing processes.
• Outstanding influencing ability & collaboration skills.

Responsibilities

• Define strategy and operational tactics with project leader.
• Manage project budgets, resources, and documentation.
• Lead cross-functional teams through execution of project plans.
• Monitor performance vs. project plan.
• Provide coaching to junior members of the team.

Skills

Project Management

Collaboration skills

Influencing ability

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor degree in Science, Engineering, or a related field

Advanced degree (MSc, PhD) in Science or related field

Masters of Business Administration (MBA)

Tools

Microsoft Project

Job description

Position Description

CSL's R&D organization is accelerating innovation to deliver greater impact for patients. With a project‑led structure and a focus on collaboration, we're building a future‑ready team that thrives in dynamic biotech ecosystems. Joining CSL now means being part of an agile team committed to developing therapies that make a meaningful difference worldwide.

Summary

Responsible for leading the successful operational delivery of global, cross‑functional R&D projects of strategic importance to CSL's product portfolio.

Main Responsibilities & Accountabilities

• Work closely with project leader to define strategy and operational tactics
• Responsible for the preparation and management of project budgets, sensitivities, resources, project timelines, project scope and all other project documentation
• Accountable for the accuracy and quality of reports to senior stakeholders
• Lead cross functional development teams through tactical execution of project plans
• Identify, manage and resolve project issues and mitigate risks
• Ensure documentation of key team information, decisions, actions, modifications to scope, resources, timelines and milestones in project management systems is current.
• Identify, evaluate the critical path, scenarios and challenge assumptions to increase robustness of project plans
• Monitor performance vs. plan (budget and timeline)
• Coordinate program updates to Sr. Management
• Provide coaching and mentorship to more junior members of the R&D Global Project Management Department

Qualifications & Experience

• Required: Bachelor degree or equivalent in Science, Engineering, or a related field.
• Preferred: An advanced degree (MSc, PhD) in Science or related field, Masters of Business Administration (MBA) or equivalent.
• Project Management Professional (PMP) certification.
• 7+ years' experience in the biotechnology or pharmaceutical industry.
• 5+ years' experience as a project manager leading cross-functional project teams in a matrixed, global environment.
• In-depth knowledge in drug research, development and manufacturing processes.
• Demonstrated experience in delivering projects to meet business objectives on time, within budget and with quality.
• Outstanding influencing ability & collaboration skills.
• Proven success with building and developing matrix teams.
• Ability to work effectively in a matrix environment that includes interactions with multiple stakeholder groups.
• Excellent executive presence, communication & change management skills.
• Exemplary project management skills.
• Highly proficient in the use of Project Management processes and tools (e.g. Microsoft Project).

Our Benefits

CSL employees that work at least 30 hours per week are eligible for benefits effective day 1. We are committed to the wellbeing of our employees and their loved ones. CSL offers resources and benefits, from health care to financial protection, so you can focus on doing work that matters. Our benefits are designed to support the needs of our employees at every stage of their life. Whether you are considering starting a family, need help paying for emergency backup care or summer camp, looking for mental health resources, planning for your financial future, or supporting your favorite charity with a matching contribution, CSL has many benefits to help achieve your goals.

Please take the time to review our benefits site to see what's available to you as a CSL employee.