Operations Manager, Clinical Trials (Regional role based out of Europe)

Company Description

Milestone One, a pioneering Site Enabling Organization (SEO), is seeking an experienced Manager Operations to lead and expand our global operational structures across clinical research sites. This key leadership position is ideal for a strategic and hands-on professional who combines operational excellence with strong people management skills.

The successful candidate will be responsible for ensuring process consistency, high-quality trial execution, and ongoing improvement of operational standards across regions. Experience gained in Site Management Organizations (SMOs), especially within international or global environments, will be considered a strong asset.

Job Description

Key responsibilities

• Lead the team in driving network growth by effectively engaging new clinics and healthcare partners.
• Provide leadership, regular feedback, and development opportunities for team members.
• Supervise the conduct of clinical trials in accordance with ICH GCP, applicable regulations, and internal procedures.
• Foster a culture of transparency, accountability, and high performance.
• Drive process optimization and standardization across all operational levels.
• Assess feasibility of research protocols and select the most suitable studies for clinical sites.
• Oversee budget negotiations, research timelines, and operational deliverables across assigned regions.
• Manage and support Lead Coordinators by monitoring performance and ensuring alignment with quality standards.
• Promote the Milestone One brand, build and maintain strong relationships with medical institutions, sponsors and CROs.
• Co-develop operational procedures, templates, and guidelines for medical and site teams.
• Supervise and support audit and inspection readiness.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in clinical research operations management, preferably within  CRO or Site Management Organizations (SMOs).
• Strong leadership background with experience in team management and multi-site operations.
• Comprehensive understanding of ICH GCP and operational aspects of clinical trials.
• Excellent problem-solving, planning, and organizational skills.
• Outstanding interpersonal and communication abilities.
• Strategic mindset with a passion for process improvement and innovation.
• Fluent English (additional languages are an advantage).

Additional Information

• A key leadership role in a rapidly growing, innovative Site Enabling Organization (SEO).
• Dynamic, international environment driven by collaboration and purpose.
• Opportunity to influence the development of large clinical research networks worldwide.
• Competitive remuneration and flexible form of employment (employment contract or B2B).
• Global working model built on flexibility, trust, and continuous growth.