Contract Specialist

Overview

This role involves comprehensive management of clinical research proposals and contracts. The specialist will handle all stages from initial analysis of Requests for Proposals (RFPs) to final contract formulation, while coordinating between subject matter experts and adhering to company policies.

Key Responsibilities

• Evaluate RFP documentation including study protocols and assign appropriate experts to the proposal process.
• Coordinate proposal preparation, ensuring all strategic and operational elements are included, budgets are reviewed, and policies are followed.
• Adjust proposals and budgets responsively to feedback from SMEs and proposal managers.
• Oversee the full RFP lifecycle, identifying risks and devising effective mitigation strategies.
• Source third-party quotations as needed and ensure full alignment of proposals and budgets with client needs and internal standards.
• Develop and finalize budgets and contracts in line with department guidelines, adjusting project budgets in collaboration with relevant teams.
• Employ internal tools for budget amendments and devise contract plans to achieve timely delivery and client approval.
• Represent the organization in client meetings, negotiate costs and terms proactively to meet deadlines.
• Create contract drafts using standardized templates and ensure that contractual issues are escalated and resolved involving internal stakeholders.
• Maintain organized documentation and update data regularly for performance monitoring.
• Prioritize work tasks effectively, plan for workflow manageability during absences, and meet both internal and client-imposed deadlines.
• Support mapping of client bid-grids as required.

Essential Skills and Experience

• Understanding of clinical study operations across various global regions, supported by relevant industry experience.
• Strong analytical capabilities along with excellent organizational and time management skills for multitasking.
• Capacity to adhere to deadlines and work under pressure with problem-solving skills and sound decision-making.
• Proficiency in oral and written communication, keen attention to detail, and ability to engage professionally across all organizational levels.
• Leadership skills for convening and guiding internal meetings.
• Team-oriented mindset for functioning effectively in matrix organizational structures.
• Fluent English communication skills in both speaking and writing.
• Basic knowledge of contract and proposal management, including pricing strategies and tools such as Salesforce and Microsoft Office suite.
• Preference for candidates with at least two years’ experience in project support, contracting, finance, or proposals within Clinical Research Organizations or similar sectors.
• Flexibility to work irregular or extended hours when deadlines approach, and capacity to partially or fully work remotely as business needs dictate.

Educational Qualifications

A Bachelor’s degree in Life Sciences, Business, Languages, or a related field is required, with an MBA considered an advantage.