Life Sciences Program Leader: Growth & Client Impact

Salas O’Brien, Inc.; Cincinnati, Northern (OH, KY); Hybrid; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Salas O’Brien in Cincinnati seeks a Program Manager to drive growth and client satisfaction by expanding the client base and leading cross-functional teams. You will serve as the primary liaison between clients and execution teams, upholding the firm’s values and standards.

The role requires 15+ years in Life Sciences or regulated environments, strong contract negotiation, and proven ability to manage enterprise-level programs with diverse stakeholders.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Life Sciences, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Biotechnology, or related technical field.
• Minimum 15+ years of progressive experience in Life Sciences, engineering, manufacturing, automation, capital projects, or technical services supporting regulated environments.
• 7-10 years of Program and/or Project Management experience leading complex, multi-disciplinary initiatives within pharmaceutical, biotechnology, medical device, healthcare, CDMO/CMO/CRO, or laboratory environments.
• Demonstrated success managing large-scale programs involving multiple stakeholders, budgets, schedules, and cross-functional teams while delivering business and operational objectives.
• Experience in at least two Life Sciences sectors: Pharmaceuticals, Biotechnology, Medical Devices, Healthcare, CDMO/CMO/CRO, or Laboratory Services
• Knowledge of regulatory and quality standards including cGMP, FDA regulations, ISPE guidelines, GAMP 5, and ASME BPE.
• Proven experience managing enterprise-level client relationships and serving as a strategic program lead.
• Ability to lead cross-functional teams, drive program governance, manage risks, and communicate with executive stakeholders.
• PMP, PgMP, or equivalent project/program management certification preferred.

Responsibilities

• Drive business growth and financial performance by delivering exceptional client satisfaction.
• Expand the existing client base through development of trust-based relationships with procurement, engineering, operations, and plant leadership.
• Lead and empower project teams and act as primary liaison between clients and execution teams.
• Develop pursuit strategies and strengthen proposals with internal stakeholders.
• Coach and mentor project managers and client-facing sellers to strengthen capabilities and performance.
• Partner with internal stakeholders to align communication and priorities across teams.

Skills

Relationship building

Client management

Leadership

Contract negotiation

Communication

Cross-functional collaboration

Project governance

Financial acumen

Travel readiness

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related field

PM certification (PMP/PgMP) preferred

Job description

Salas O’Brien in Cincinnati seeks a Program Manager to drive growth and client satisfaction by expanding the client base and leading cross-functional teams. You will serve as the primary liaison between clients and execution teams, upholding the firm’s values and standards.

The role requires 15+ years in Life Sciences or regulated environments, strong contract negotiation, and proven ability to manage enterprise-level programs with diverse stakeholders.