Job Description

About the Role

The Portfolio Director will be responsible for leading a portfolio of clinical development projects within an assigned PM Therapeutic Area (PM TA). This role requires strong leadership, highly developed strategic vision to grow the book of business of the Portfolio, operational expertise and the ability to effectively manage the team of Project Directors and Project Managers working on the Portfolio. The Portfolio Director will take lead roles in developing Novotech’s client relationships, the award of new and repeat business awards and ensuring the successful delivery of projects to time, budget and quality expectations.

Responsibilities

Portfolio Growth & Management

• Take a leading role in growing the Portfolio book of business through working closely with the Therapeutic Strategy Lead (TSL) and Business Development Team to develop successful operational strategy and delivery plans for project Proposals; participate in Bid Defense Meetings and lead operational follow up activities.
• Work with TSL to develop and maintain “Play Books”, White Papers, Marketing materials, Scientific Advisor Panels, service offerings, etc to ensure the continued growth of the Portfolio.
• Lead and oversee the execution of multiple clinical development projects within the Portfolio, ensuring alignment with client strategic goals and regulatory requirements.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with clients, acting as the primary point of contact for client management in relation to project-related matters.
• Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure project performance, delivery timelines, financial health, and client satisfaction.
• Ensure that all projects comply with ICH-GCP guidelines and applicable regulatory requirements.

Leadership and People Management

• Manage and coach Project Directors and Project Managers, providing guidance, support, and development opportunities both within the Portfolio and the wider Novotech business.
• Foster a high-performing culture across the Portfolio by encouraging collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• Ensure optimal resource allocation and utilization across projects in alignment with business needs.

Strategic Planning & Execution

• Collaborate with the Head PM [Insert Name of Therapeutic Area] Therapeutic Area to contribute to the strategic plans and direction of the TA.
• Participate in long-term planning for the TA, driving initiatives to optimize processes, improve efficiency, and achieve growth targets.
• Work closely with cross-functional leadership to ensure Project Team and project success.

Client Engagement & Satisfaction

• Serve as the primary point of contact for clients, managing relationships at the Portfolio level to ensure client satisfaction and loyalty.
• Lead Portfolio-level client meetings and provide updates on project progress, risks, and mitigation strategies.
• Identify and address client considerations to maintain and develop the health of the relationship in a proactive manner.

Risk Management

• Identify, assess, and mitigate risks at the portfolio level, implementing corrective and preventive actions as needed.
• Ensure that all projects within the portfolio adhere to internal and external risk management policies and procedures.

Financial Oversight

• Oversee the financial performance of the Portfolio, managing budgets, forecasting, and ensuring profitability.
• Collaborate with Finance and senior management to ensure financial health and accurate reporting of the Portfolio’s financial performance.
• Ensure appropriate resource allocation to meet the financial and operational needs of the Portfolio.

Competencies

• Leadership & People Management
• Strategic Thinking
• Risk & Issue Management
• Financial Management
• Client Focus
• Problem Solving & Decision Making
• Cross-functional Collaboration

Experience and Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or advanced degree in Life Sciences, Clinical Research, or a related field.
• 10+ years of experience in clinical research, with 5+ years in project management or portfolio management roles.
• Strong knowledge of clinical trials, drug development, and regulatory requirements (e.g., ICH-GCP).
• Proven experience in leading large, complex projects and managing cross-functional teams in a global environment.
• Highly developed strategic development skills.
• Excellent business development skills.
• Exceptional client management skills with a track record of successful stakeholder engagement and client satisfaction.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and problem-solving skills.
• Financial acumen with experience managing project budgets and financial performance.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment with shifting priorities.

Expected Salary Range – Portfolio Director: $240,000 to 290,000 USD – Salary offered will be based on candidates experience level.

Find out more about working at Novotech at: www.novotech-cro.com/careers

Novotech is proud to offer a great workplace. We are committed to being an employer of choice for gender equality and providing an inclusive work environment where everyone is treated fairly and with respect.

Our team members are passionate about what we do, but we understand work is only of the things that is important to them. We support our team members with flexible working options, paid parental leave for both parents, flexible leave entitlements, wellness programs and ongoing development programs.

We are looking for people who are passionate about working clinical research and biotech, including people who identify as LGBTIQ+, have a disability or have caring responsibilities.

Novotech is a global full-service clinical Contract Research Organization (CRO).

At Novotech, ambition meets opportunity. As a globally recognized leader in clinical research and scientific advisory services, we are proud to combine our position at the forefront of the industry with an award-winning workplace culture that values ambition, innovation, and growth. Named Employer of Choice, Great Place to Work and Employer of Choice for Gender Equality (EOCGE), we are committed to fostering an environment that reflects the life-changing work we do.

Since 1997, we have expanded our global footprint, now with 30+ offices across Asia-Pacific, the United States, and Europe. This growing network unites professionals from diverse backgrounds and disciplines to advance therapies that improve patient outcomes worldwide.

At Novotech, our employees are at the heart of our success. By offering trust, flexibility, and autonomy through programs like NovoLife, our flexible benefits framework, we empower team members to create an effective work-life balance that delivers professional satisfaction and maximum results for clients.

With access to mentorship opportunities, professional development programs, and a dynamic community, Novotech offers a platform for driven individuals to achieve personal growth while shaping the future of healthcare. Join us to be a part of a team that values your contributions and supports your ambition to make a global impact.