Head of Project Management CNS/Neuroscience Based US

CNS drug development demands a different kind of leadership. The science is complex, the patient populations are underserved, and the operational stakes are high. This organisation is looking for a Head of Project Management to take executive ownership of its CNS & Neuroscience Therapeutic Area  driving both the strategic growth of the practice and the delivery of complex, multi-jurisdictional clinical programmes.

This is a portfolio-level leadership role with accountability for client relationships at accounts exceeding $75 million in backlog, a direct team of Portfolio Directors, Project Oversight Directors, and Project Managers, and a mandate to grow the book of business alongside operational excellence.

The Role

Therapeutic Area Growth

• Lead proposal strategy and bid defence for new CNS/Neuroscience business, working closely with Business Development and Medical & Scientific Strategists to develop compelling operational plans.
• Oversee the development and maintenance of therapeutic playbooks, white papers, scientific advisory panels, and service offerings  ensuring the practice remains at the leading edge of the field.
• Forecast resources and lead targeted hiring for specialists with relevant trial methodology and investigational product expertise.
• Nominate and align Portfolio Directors, Project Oversight Directors, and Global Project Managers for incoming accounts in collaboration with workforce planning.

Executive Oversight & Delivery

• Provide executive oversight across multiple clinical development portfolios within the Therapeutic Area, ensuring alignment with client strategic goals and ICH-GCP requirements.
• Act as Executive Sponsor for nominated accounts; lead client governance meetings and provide senior-level updates on performance, risks, and mitigation.
• Monitor KPIs across delivery timelines, financial health, and client satisfaction — and drive corrective action where needed.
• Identify, assess, and mitigate risks at Therapeutic Area level, implementing preventive and corrective actions in line with internal and external policy.

Leadership & People

• Manage and develop a team of Portfolio Directors, Project Oversight Directors, and Project Delivery Directors — providing guidance, coaching, and genuine career development.
• Foster a high-performing culture built on collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• Ensure optimal resource allocation and utilisation across the Therapeutic Area in alignment with business needs.

Strategy & Financial Oversight

• Collaborate with the SVP, Global Project Management to contribute to the strategic direction of the function and the Therapeutic Area's long-term plan.
• Oversee the financial performance of the Therapeutic Area — budgeting, forecasting, and profitability — working with Finance and senior leadership on accurate reporting.
• Drive initiatives to optimise processes, improve efficiency, and meet (or exceed) growth targets.

What We're Looking For

• Bachelor's or advanced degree in Life Sciences, Clinical Research, or a related field.
• 15+ years in clinical research, with at least 10 years in project or portfolio management roles in a global environment.
• A background that spans biotech, pharma, and CRO environments — ideally with deep CNS/Neuroscience expertise across multiple programme types.
• Strong command of ICH-GCP and applicable regulatory requirements across major markets.
• A proven track record leading large, complex cross-functional programmes and managing senior client relationships at scale.
• Commercially minded — with demonstrable experience in business development activities including bid defence and proposal strategy.
• Financial acumen: experience managing budgets and financial performance at a portfolio or practice level.
• Exceptional communication, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills.