Clinical Director – Early Phase Expertise Medicines Evaluation Unit

Office based at our Manchester Site.

About the Organisation

The Medicines Evaluation Unit (MEU) Ltd, an IQVIA business, is one of the UK's leading contract research organisations, and a facility where commitment to excellence is paramount. Possessing extensive pharmaceutical, scientific and clinical expertise, allied with fast volunteer recruitment, both healthy and patient, within a state-of-the-art hospital based research facility, enables the MEU to offer clients positive clinical trial solutions.

Job Overview

You will oversee a local office-based team of clinical professionals, including feasibility, strategy, operations and clinical, ensuring projects are resourced effectively and delivered to the highest standards. Align operational goals with corporate priorities and drive strategic initiatives that enhance efficiency and quality across clinical programs.

This is a hands-on leadership role requiring strong business acumen and deep understanding of pharmacology and early-phase drug development. You will act as a key liaison with sponsors, guiding protocol design, advising on compound behavior, and ensuring seamless collaboration between clinical and operational teams.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee hiring, onboarding, and training processes to build high-performing teams
• Evaluate workload, quality, and budget metrics; implement process improvements to optimise outcomes
• Represent the unit at conferences and in customer meetings to support early engagement and business development, ultimately leading to new business awards
• Serve as a scientific advisor to sponsors and internal teams, providing insights on pharmacology and protocol feasibility
• Lead and inspire a team within our Early Phase unit, combining strategic leadership with scientific expertise, ensuring operational excellence and client engagement across the portfolio of trials including first-in-human studies

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in a scientific discipline or healthcare field (advanced degree preferred)
• Minimum 10 years in clinical trials, including leadership roles; strong background in Phase I and pharmacology essential
• Advanced knowledge of GCP/ICH guidelines and regulatory requirements
• Proven ability to manage budgets and understand clinical research financial parameters
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite; strong organizational and problem-solving abilities
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment and manage competing priorities

Why IQVIA

• Work at the forefront of early-phase clinical research
• Collaborate with world-class experts and innovative technologies
• Enjoy global exposure and clear career progression opportunities
• Competitive compensation and relocation support available

About IQVIA

IQVIA is a leading global provider of clinical research services, commercial insights and healthcare intelligence to the life sciences and healthcare industries. We create intelligent connections to accelerate the development and commercialization of innovative medical treatments to help improve patient outcomes and population health worldwide. We seek out diverse talent with curious minds and a relentless commitment to innovation and impact. No matter your role, everyone at IQVIA contributes to our shared goal of helping customers improve the lives of patients everywhere.