Director Project Management - Rare Disease & Pediatrics- Remote, US

Fortrea; Durham (NC); Remote; USD 160,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Fortrea is seeking a seasoned Senior Project Leader to serve as the primary client lead for complex clinical studies, directing delivery across multiple vendors and teams in Durham, NC. You will develop risk management strategies, resolve escalated issues, and mentor project management staff while expanding client relationships.

You will oversee TMFs, QA activities, and bid defense preparations, while guiding cross-functional teams to design, implement, and track study plans in alignment with

Qualifications

• University/college degree in life sciences (Masters preferred).
• Minimum 9 years relevant clinical research experience in pharma/CRO with at least 6 years of full project management responsibility.
• Minimum 4 years direct or indirect supervisory experience.
• PMP or certification in clinical research preferred.

Responsibilities

• Act as primary client contact for assigned clinical studies or programs across vendors and sub-CROs.
• Develop risk management strategies and resolve escalated project issues to ensure on-time delivery.
• Oversee TMFs, audit readiness, and quality control activities per timelines.
• Lead and mentor project management staff and expand client portfolios through strategic relationships.

Skills

Fluent in English

Project management

Risk management

Stakeholder management

Education

University/college degree in life sciences

Job description

Job Overview:Acts as the primary client lead for complex clinical studies or programs, driving operational delivery across multiple vendors and teams. Develops and executes risk‑management strategies, resolves escalated project issues, and provides line management and talent development for project management staff.Summary of Responsibilities:Primary client contact for assigned clinical studies or programs, working independently with generally highly complex strategy, multiple vendors, sub-CROs with no planned oversight. May have other Project Managers working in a matrix environment with program level oversightWith a primary focus on operational delivery, develops strategies to manage risk and control and improve operational execution. Utilize staff to maximize contribution and organizational effectivenessContributes to resolution of escalation of project level issuesOversees the line management and talent development of Individual Contributors and/or Managers of Project ManagersSuccess in the role involves leveraging experience to drive solutions, developing and maintaining strong relationships with key stakeholders at all levels of the business, and expanding client portfolios as well as contributing to growth objectives through training, allocation and ongoing mentorship of experienced team membersLeads the project team to facilitate the successful design, implementation, tracking and maintenance of all project plans, adhering to professional standards and SOPs, according to contracted timelines and budgetAccountable for TMFs including TMF Index & Plan, audit readiness and delivery of the TMF per agreed upon timelines, when contracted by clientProactively lead quality control and risk assurance activities to meet regulatory, internal and client requirementsFosters positive client experiences through effective communication and collaborationMay serve as a primary contact for a strategic client relationship. Develops and manages strategic relationship level fundamental documents, including charters, MSA negotiation, rate card input, operations and quality plans, etc. Initiates process improvement to address varianceDesigns delivery strategy for large scale bid defense and performs other business development activitiesAttracts, selects, onboards, develops and retains high performing talent, strengthens talent bench and successionAll other duties as needed or assignedQualifications (Minimum Required):Fluent in English, both written and verbalExtensive knowledge of the clinical development spectrum and ICH GCPAdvanced proficiency in organizational and time management skillsDemonstrates sound judgment in high-stakes or ambiguous situationsExceptional presentation skills for all levels including internal and partner executive leadershipActively contributes to continuous improvement efforts and strategic planning activitiesExperience (Minimum Required):University/college degree in life sciences, Masters preferredMinimum of nine (9) years relevant clinical research experience in a pharmaceutical company/CRO including at least six (6) years of full project management responsibilityMinimum of four (4) years direct or indirect supervisory experienceIn lieu of above experience requirement, a combination of other relevant and equivalent experience may be consideredPreferred therapeutic areas: rare diseases, neonatal and infant pediatric studiesPreferred Qualifications Include:PMP or certified in clinical researchPay Range: $160,000-$180,000 USDBenefits: All job offers will be based on a candidate’s skills and prior relevant experience, applicable degrees/certifications, as well as internal equity and market data. Regular, full-time or part-time employees working 20 or more hours per week are eligible for comprehensive benefits including: Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, STD/LTD, 401(K), Paid time off (PTO) or Flexible time off (FTO), Company bonus where applicable.Application Deadline: 10/23/2026#CS1Learn more about our EEO & Accommodations request here .