Global Trial Optimization Executive

Merck & Co.; Upper Gwynedd Township (Montgomery County); Hybrid; USD 250,000 - 350,000; Full time

Job summary

Merck & Co. seeks a strategic Head of Global Trial Optimization to lead senior GTO staff, oversee budgeting, processes, and risk management. The role emphasizes data-driven feasibility, recruitment strategies, and end-to-end trial execution across functions and sites.

You will shape organizational design, talent development and compliance while ensuring high-quality deliverables and strong collaboration with global stakeholders. Travel and hybrid work are expected.

Qualifications

• Bachelor degree required; advanced degree preferred.
• 15+ years in clinical research with leadership experience.
• Strong written and spoken English with executive communication.
• Proven ability to lead data-driven, risk-based decisions.
• Experience implementing GCP/ICH and regulatory guidelines.

Responsibilities

• Provide vision and oversight of GTO staff and deliverables.
• Lead organizational design, budgets and resource planning.
• Mentor GTO leadership, ensure quality and risk mitigation.
• Drive data-driven feasibility, recruitment and trial simulations.
• Oversee site partnerships, vendor alignment and trial execution.
• Collaborate with internal/external stakeholders to anticipate needs.

Skills

Leadership experience

Clinical research

Regulatory knowledge

English communication

Data-driven decision-making

Strategic thinking

Project management

Cross-functional collaboration

Risk management

Education

Bachelor of Science/Arts

Advanced degree preferred

Tools

Microsoft Word

Microsoft Excel

Data analysis software

Job description

Merck & Co. seeks a strategic Head of Global Trial Optimization to lead senior GTO staff, oversee budgeting, processes, and risk management. The role emphasizes data-driven feasibility, recruitment strategies, and end-to-end trial execution across functions and sites.

You will shape organizational design, talent development and compliance while ensuring high-quality deliverables and strong collaboration with global stakeholders. Travel and hybrid work are expected.