Senior Director Clinical Operations
Occupations:
General and Operations ManagersOphthalmologists, Except PediatricMedical and Health Services ManagersOptometristsClinical Research CoordinatorsIndustries:
Nursing Care Facilities (Skilled Nursing Facilities)Facilities Support ServicesOther Investment Pools and FundsOffice Administrative ServicesCommunity Food and Housing, and Emergency and Other Relief ServicesSenior Director, Clinical Operations - OphthalmologyPosition OverviewWe are seeking a strategic and execution-focused Senior Director of Clinical Operations to lead the planning, implementation, and oversight of global clinical trials. This individual will be responsible for driving operational excellence across multiple programs, ensuring studies are delivered on time, within budget, and in compliance with regulatory standards.The ideal candidate brings deep therapeutic and operational expertise, strong leadership capabilities, and a track record of successfully scaling clinical programs in a fast-paced environment.Key ResponsibilitiesLead the operational strategy and execution of Phase I–IV clinical trials across multiple indicationsTranslate development plans into executable clinical strategies with clear timelines, milestones, and resource allocationOversee study startup, enrollment, conduct, and closeout activities to ensure delivery against key objectivesIdentify and proactively mitigate risks to study timelines, quality, and budgetBuild, mentor, and lead a high-performing clinical operations team including Directors, Clinical Trial Managers, and CRAsEstablish clear performance expectations, development plans, and succession pathwaysFoster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvementSelect, manage, and evaluate CROs and external vendorsEnsure vendor performance aligns with study goals, timelines, and quality expectationsLead governance structures including regular business reviews and escalation managementPartner closely with Clinical Development, Regulatory, Data Management, Biostatistics, and Medical AffairsEnsure alignment between clinical operations and broader program strategyServe as a key operational voice in cross-functional leadership meetingsDevelop and manage clinical trial budgets and forecastsOptimize resource allocation across programs and geographiesEnsure financial discipline while maintaining study quality and timelinesEnsure all trials are conducted in accordance with ICH-GCP, FDA, EMA, and other regulatory requirementsOversee inspection readiness and support regulatory auditsImplement and maintain SOPs, processes, and systems to ensure operational excellenceQualificationsMust have experience within OphthalmologyBachelor's degree required; advanced degree (MS, PhD, or MBA) preferred12–15+ years of clinical operations experience within biotech, pharma, or CRO environmentsProven leadership experience managing teams and complex global clinical programsStrong experience overseeing Phase II and III trials; Phase I and IV experience a plusDeep understanding of regulatory requirements and clinical trial processesDemonstrated success in vendor and CRO management