Manager – Specific Function

General role description

Managers in pharmaceutical, medtech, biotech, and contract research organisations (CROs) lead a specific function such as regulatory affairs, clinical operations, quality assurance, or medical affairs.

They are responsible for the day-to-day delivery of work in their area, ensuring that activities are completed to a high standard and in line with timelines, regulations, and client needs. Managers supervise small teams or project staff, solve day-to-day issues and make sure plans for the team’s work are carried out smoothly.

This role is ideal for experienced professionals ready to take on leadership and delivery responsibilities within their discipline.

Key responsibilities

  • Manage the daily operations of a functional area or team (e.g. regulatory affairs, clinical operations, quality assurance)
  • Support the development and implementation of plans, processes, or systems in their area
  • Supervise and mentor staff, set work priorities, and monitor performance
  • Ensure compliance with regulatory standards, company standard operating procedures (SOPs), and client expectations
  • Coordinate cross-functional collaboration and contribute to project planning or delivery
  • Report progress and escalate risks or issues to functional and project leadership
  • Identify opportunities to improve quality, efficiency, or documentation within the team.

Workplace settings

  • Pharmaceutical, biotechnology and medical device companies
  • Contract research organisations (CROs).

Required qualifications

  • A degree in science, health sciences, pharmacy, or a related field
  • Postgraduate qualifications or certifications in a relevant area may be desirable for some roles.

Other notable requirements

Managers - Specific Function often need:

  • 3–5+ years of experience in their functional area
  • Strong knowledge of relevant systems, processes, and regulatory requirements
  • Team leadership or supervisory experience
  • Excellent organisational, communication and time-management skills
  • Ability to coordinate work across functions and meet project timelines.

Common entry points

Clinical Project Manager

Senior Officer or Specialist (e.g. Senior Clinical Research Associate, Regulatory Affairs Specialist, Medical Affairs Specialist)