Associate Director, Global Study Operations

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About BioMarin

BioMarin is a global biotechnology company that relentlessly pursues bold science to translate genetic discoveries into new medicines that advance the future of human health. Since 1997, we have applied our scientific expertise in understanding the underlying causes of genetic conditions to create transformative medicines using a number of treatment modalities. We develop medicines for patients with significant unmet medical need and foster an environment that empowers bold, innovative science.

Role context

The Global Study Operations (GSO) People & Process Management team is responsible for direct line management activities and for driving the strategic development and implementation of operational solutions in support of trial delivery. The Associate Director (AD) will serve as mentor, coach, and line-manager for 8-12 Study Specialists (clinical trial specialists) based in the UK and Japan. The role ensures consistent line management and process execution across trials from Phase 1 through Post-Approval, accountable for the successful operational delivery of all assigned studies within their programs.

The ideal candidate is a technically strong leader with experience managing diverse teams to meet clinical trial and program goals. Strong communication skills are essential, including coaching and mentoring direct reports. The role includes developing talent, building high-performing teams, process improvements, training curriculum, and innovative approaches to improve trial delivery. The role reports to the Head of People and Process Management.

While not directly accountable for program deliverables, the AD collaborates closely with program directors, leads, and study managers to ensure Study Specialists meet timely execution of study deliverables. The PPM manager also contributes to internal process improvements, cross-functional work, training initiatives, and staff development through IDPs, leveraging BioMarin resources.

Role Specific Minimum Requirements

• Strong leadership attributes with excellence in line management, coaching, and motivating a diverse team to deliver on trial and program expectations.
• Expertise in clinical trial management and vendor oversight
• Solid business acumen with comfort in agile delivery in a complex learning environment; able to present clear, concise communications to senior executives and stakeholders
• Experience with Learning, Development, Engagement and Talent Strategy frameworks supporting diversity, equity, and inclusion
• Effective written/verbal communication and people skills; ability to influence and foster collaboration across cross-functional stakeholders
• Innovative mindset with a track record of championing change to benefit the business and stakeholders
• Proactive, flexible, adaptive, and capable of navigating ambiguity to find clarity and solutions
• Professional maturity to engage confidentially with employees, vendors, and team members

Key Responsibilities (illustrative)

People Management focus:

• Partner with Phase Leads and Program Directors to align on program delivery expectations for direct reports; contribute to process improvements and best practices to enhance trial delivery across the organization
• Lead, develop, manage, and retain high-performing teams; set vision and purpose through goals and authentic communication
• Ensure visibility and alignment of corporate and functional goals with individual goals
• Build productive relationships with other line managers to support an engagement strategy valuing diversity, inclusion, and equity
• Promote a positive team environment through feedback, retention awareness, and clear priorities
• Foster a positive work environment with mutual respect and accountability to implement and deliver studies
• Develop partnerships with key enterprise partners, SMEs, and stakeholders to support a strong network

Process Management focus:

• Collaborate with business partners to support the wider Global Study Operations team
• Align on project scope, resources, schedules, and open communication
• Contribute to strategies to improve drug development processes and capabilities
• Ensure compliance with SOPs, ICH-GCP, regulatory requirements and patient safety standards in global trials
• Establish high-quality work standards and timely delivery of customer requirements

Experience

• Minimum 8 years in the pharmaceutical industry with a BA/BS in life sciences or related field; or 6 years with a master’s degree
• Minimum 2 years of management experience (3+ preferred)

Note: This description is not all-inclusive and may include other duties as assigned.

Equal Opportunity Employer

An Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.