Senior Director, Project Delivery (Respiratory)

About the Role

Rho is transforming the contract research organization (CRO) landscape by combining stability with innovation, all focused on enhancing healthcare and advancing clinical research. We are currently looking for a Senior Director of Project Delivery specializing in Respiratory to oversee clinical research programs from bid to study completion. This leadership position acts as a strategic partner to Business Development and Operations, managing delivery approaches, leading bid defenses, directing project portfolios, and ensuring excellent client interactions. The role includes fostering operational excellence, managing finances and risks, nurturing long-term client relations, and mentoring project teams while supporting organizational advancement.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee a portfolio of projects ensuring timely, quality, budget-conscious delivery within scope.
• Serve as the senior escalation contact for operational challenges for clients and teams.
• Anticipate risks and resource requirements; implement proactive remedial measures.
• Collaborate with Business Development to establish operational strategies, delivery frameworks, and win approaches.
• Lead bid defense presentations and manage smooth transitions from proposals to execution.
• Manage financial aspects including forecasting, invoicing, change orders, and contracts across portfolios.
• Identify and handle out-of-scope work and contract changes promptly.
• Coordinate with Business Development, Proposals, and Contracts teams on pricing and client relationship strategies.
• Develop and maintain influential executive-level client partnerships.
• Lead governance forums and portfolio reviews to track performance, mitigate risks, and spot growth avenues.
• Drive repeat business through proactive client engagement and successful project outcomes.
• Assist in proposal, budget, and operational planning efforts for new bids.
• Mentor Project Management personnel to build leadership and operational proficiency.
• Encourage best practices, knowledge sharing, and continuous improvements.
• Collaborate with leadership to enhance organizational strengths and talent development.
• Promote consistency, quality, and efficiency through the project portfolio.
• Lead initiatives aimed at process improvements and organizational change support.
• Ensure adherence to SOPs, regulatory mandates, ICH-GCP, and client needs.
• Establish robust governance, communication, and escalation processes for complex projects.
• Facilitate portfolio discussions among sponsors and internal partners.
• Work collaboratively to optimize project delivery, profitability, quality, and client satisfaction.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Life Science or related field with at least 10 years in clinical research project management or equivalent leadership roles; minimum 4 years managing programs/portfolios and CRO experience.
• Deep knowledge of project management principles and financial oversight including budgeting, forecasting, invoicing, and contracts.
• Advanced skills in strategic planning and resource prioritization.
• Strong understanding of regulatory compliance and industry standards.
• Experience with business development processes, proposals, and change management.
• Excellent leadership, team management, and staff development abilities.
• Outstanding communication, negotiation, and presentation skills, capable of engaging senior clients and internal stakeholders.
• Effective problem-solving and decision-making skills with flexibility to adapt to shifting priorities.
• Dedicated to client satisfaction via proactive communication and quality outcomes.

Benefits

• Comprehensive employee benefits including medical, vision, dental, HSA, FSA, employee assistance programs, life and disability insurance, and a 401(k) plan.
• Paid time off, holidays, parental leave, and bereavement leave available to all eligible employees.
• Commitment to work-life balance to support personal passions alongside professional excellence.
• Equal opportunity employer welcoming veterans and individuals with disabilities.