Director, Global Clinical Trial Operations, Project Management Office (REMOTE)

Merck, a leader in pharmaceutical research, seeks a Director of Global Clinical Trial Operations to lead the Project Management Office in a full-time, remote position welcoming qualified candidates from Des Moines, Polk County, and nationwide. You will oversee the strategic execution and coordination of clinical trial operations across our global pipeline, ensuring the highest standards of safety, efficacy, and regulatory compliance.

About the Role

As Director of Global Clinical Trial Operations, you will lead a Project Management Office dedicated to optimizing clinical trial execution worldwide. You will independently direct complex, multi-site trial operations, driving operational excellence across phases, therapeutic areas, and geographies. This role reports to senior leadership and serves as a critical hub for coordination between research teams, regulatory affairs, and operational functions.

What You'll Do

• Oversee end-to-end execution of clinical trial programs, from planning through closeout, ensuring timely and compliant delivery
• Direct PMO functions including resource planning, budget management, timeline tracking, and risk mitigation across global trial portfolios
• Coordinate with clinical research, pharmacovigilance, regulatory, and site networks to align operations with trial protocols and regulatory requirements
• Lead, mentor, and develop operations and project management teams across multiple locations
• Monitor trial metrics, operational KPIs, and quality indicators; report findings and improvements to executive stakeholders
• Identify and resolve operational bottlenecks, ensuring trials remain on schedule and within budget
• Ensure compliance with regulatory standards, SOPs, and internal governance frameworks across all managed trials

What We're Looking For

• 10+ years of clinical research operations, project management, or related pharmaceutical and healthcare operations experience
• Proven track record directing global clinical trial operations or managing large, complex project portfolios
• Strong knowledge of clinical trial regulations (FDA, ICH-GCP) and pharmaceutical operations
• Demonstrated leadership in cross-functional environments with global teams and external partners
• Advanced project management skills with proficiency in PM methodologies and tools
• Strategic mindset combined with hands-on operational excellence and attention to detail

About Merck

Merck is committed to bringing forward medicines and vaccines that advance human health globally. Our Clinical Research and Pharmacovigilance teams drive innovation in drug development, ensuring the safety and efficacy of our pipeline and marketed products through rigorous clinical trials and surveillance.

How to Apply

To apply, complete your application directly on this page, or you'll be redirected to the employer's application platform to finish submitting there.