About the Role
The Senior Operational Strategy Manager leads operational strategy for complex early phase programmes, including First-in-Human (FIH), SAD/MAD, proof-of-mechanism, and early patient studies. This role drives cross-functional alignment to develop differentiated, clinically grounded strategies that optimise speed, quality, and regulatory success, combining deep understanding of early phase delivery models with strong commercial and operational acumen.
Responsibilities
- Own operational strategy for complex early phase opportunities (FIH, HV, patient cohorts, adaptive designs).
- Develop compelling, clinically informed narratives that differentiate Novotech’s ECD model, including site partnerships, speed-to-dose, and quality execution.
- Lead alignment across BD, Clinical Operations, Medical, Translational, and Finance to ensure integrated delivery strategies.
- Support executive-level reviews and bid defences with clear, evidence-based positioning.
- Interpret complex early phase cost drivers (e.g., HV recruitment, bed capacity, dose escalation timelines, biomarker sampling).
- Build scenario models comparing delivery options (HV vs patient, single-site vs multi-site, ANZ vs global).
- Identify operational, regulatory, and commercial risks specific to early phase studies and define mitigation strategies.
- Ensure delivery models are realistic, scalable, and aligned to ECD timelines and competitive positioning.
- Ensure all ECD strategy materials meet internal quality standards and external expectations.
- Apply consistent frameworks for early phase study design, feasibility, and execution planning.
- Maintain audit-ready documentation aligned to regulatory expectations for early phase trials.
- Support post-win handoff with clear operational plans for FIH readiness and study start-up.
- Use advanced tools to model early phase timelines, site capacity (including HV beds), staffing, and cost drivers.
- Maintain accurate and complete strategy documentation across complex ECD proposals.
- Support adoption of ECD-specific templates, modelling tools, and datasets.
- Ensure data integrity and consistency across all early phase strategy outputs.
- Lead cross-functional discussions to resolve operational challenges specific to early phase delivery.
- Mentor junior strategists in early clinical development strategy and modelling approaches.
- Communicate clearly with internal stakeholders and leadership on ECD risks, assumptions, and trade-offs.
- Act as a subject matter expert in early phase operational strategy, including HV models, site partnerships, and fast-start study execution.
Requirements
- 5–8 years of experience in clinical operations, early clinical development, strategy, or related fields.
- Demonstrated experience supporting early phase (FIH, HV, or Phase I/IIa) studies.
- Strong analytical, scenario modelling, and narrative development skills.
- Ability to influence cross-functional stakeholders and drive alignment in complex programmes.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Must have full unrestricted working rights in Australia.
- Cannot provide sponsorship for this role.
Skills
- Operational strategy
- Early phase delivery models
- Healthy volunteer and targeted patient populations
- Commercial acumen
- Operational acumen
- Bid defence preparation
- Scenario modelling
- Risk identification and mitigation
- Process governance
- Quality governance
- Data-driven insights
- Mentoring junior strategists
Location
- Australia
Work Type
- Hybrid working arrangements
- Full flexibility in working hours
Experience Level
- Senior
Benefits
- Flexible working options
- Paid parental leave for both parents
- Flexible leave entitlements
- Wellness programs
- Ongoing development programs
About the Company
- Novotech is a global full-service clinical Contract Research Organization (CRO).
- Novotech is a globally recognized leader in clinical research and scientific advisory services.
- 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).
- Fostering an environment that reflects the life-changing work we do.
- Expanded global footprint with 30+ offices across Asia-Pacific, the United States, and Europe.
- Uniting professionals from diverse backgrounds and disciplines to advance therapies that improve patient outcomes worldwide.
- Employees are at the heart of our success.
- Offering trust, flexibility, and autonomy through programs like NovoLife, our flexible benefits framework.
- Empowering team members to create an effective work-life balance that delivers professional satisfaction and maximum results for clients.
- Access to mentorship opportunities, professional development programs, and a dynamic community.
- Platform for driven individuals to achieve personal growth while shaping the future of healthcare.
- Advanced therapeutic and regulatory expertise.
- Ability to execute across markets.
- Client-centric service model.
- Trusted, long-term partner and an accelerated path to bring life-changing advances to market.
- Opportunity to develop careers by joining a diverse and supportive global organization with a collaborative culture.
- Working with clients on the cutting-edge of life sciences.
- Empowered teams with a shared commitment to success.
- Culture that fosters partnership and collaboration, where every voice is heard and valued.
- Ongoing support from senior stakeholders and leadership team.
Equal Opportunity
- Committed to being an employer of choice for gender equality and providing an inclusive work environment where everyone is treated fairly and with respect.
- 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.
- Circle Back Initiative Employer and commit to respond to every application.
