Lead global IT strategy and operations for a life‑sciences CRO: oversee cloud and infrastructure, cybersecurity and compliance (GxP/21 CFR/GDPR), enterprise applications and data strategy, digital transformation, vendor and budget management, and build a global IT organization to enable clinical research, data science, and product delivery.
1. Strategic Technology Leadership
- Define and implement a global IT strategy and roadmap aligned with Cytel’s growth, product innovation, and client delivery priorities.
- Partner with executive leadership to ensure technology investments drive business performance and competitive differentiation.
- Evaluate emerging technologies (AI/ML, advanced analytics, cloud platforms) to support Cytel’s data science and statistical innovation agenda.
2. IT Operations & Infrastructure
- Oversee the design, implementation, and support of enterprise IT systems, infrastructure, and cloud platforms ensuring scalability, performance, and reliability.
- Drive modernization initiatives including cloud adoption, automation, and platform standardization.
- Ensure high availability of systems supporting clinical data, software platforms, and global operations.
3. Digital Transformation & Business Enablement
- Lead enterprise-wide digital initiatives to improve operational efficiency, client delivery, and data-driven decision-making.
- Enable integration of clinical systems (e.g., EDC, CTMS, data platforms) and internal tools to support Cytel’s service and software offerings.
- Partner with R&D and product teams to support software development environments and analytics capabilities.
4. Cybersecurity, Risk & Compliance
- Establish and oversee robust cybersecurity and data protection frameworks across all systems and platforms.
- Ensure compliance with GxP, 21 CFR Part 11, GDPR, and other regulatory standards relevant to clinical research and data integrity.
- Lead IT risk management, business continuity, and disaster recovery planning.
5. Enterprise Applications & Data Strategy
- Oversee enterprise systems including ERP, CRM, HRIS, and data platforms, ensuring integration and scalability. [
- Champion data governance, data architecture, and analytics enablement, positioning data as a strategic asset.
- Drive adoption of modern technologies including AI, automation, and cloud-native platforms.
6. Global Team Leadership
- Build and lead a high-performing global IT organization, including infrastructure, applications, security, and support teams.
- Foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
- Develop talent strategy, succession planning, and leadership capability within IT.
7. Financial & Vendor Management
- Own the global IT budget, ensuring efficient allocation of resources and strong ROI on technology investments.
- Manage strategic vendor partnerships, outsourcing models, and software providers.
- Lead contract negotiations and ensure delivery against SLAs.
Qualifications & Experience
Required
- 15+ years of progressive IT leadership experience, including senior leadership roles in life sciences, CRO, or healthcare technology.
- Proven track record of defining and executing enterprise IT strategy in a global, regulated environment.
- Deep expertise in:
- Cloud computing (AWS, Azure)
- Cybersecurity and risk management
- Enterprise systems (ERP, CRM, data platforms)
- IT governance and compliance frameworks
- Experience supporting clinical research, data science, or software product environments.
- Strong financial acumen with experience managing large IT budgets and vendor ecosystems.
Preferred
- Prior experience in a CRO, biotech, or clinical data/analytics organization (e.g., IQVIA, Parexel, Certara).
- Knowledge of clinical systems (EDC, CTMS, eTMF) and regulatory frameworks (GCP, GxP).
- Advanced degree (MBA, MS in IT, Computer Science, or related discipline).
Key Competencies
- Strategic leadership and executive influence
- Digital transformation and innovation mindset
- Strong business acumen with ability to align IT to revenue growth
- Change management and organizational leadership
- Excellent stakeholder communication across technical and non-technical audiences
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