Senior Manager, Research Office (2 years contract)

As part of the Research Partnership & Innovation Office (PIO) this position plays a key role in advancing National University Health System (NUHS) mission of improving lives through clinical care, research innovation and strategic collaboration. He/She will be responsible for drafting, reviewing, negotiating and executing a wide range of research-related contracts (eg CTAs, RCAs, MTAs etc) to enable and support high-quality clinical research and innovation partnerships while safeguarding NUHS’ interests.

Job Responsibilities
•    To work alongside the Haematology Oncology Research Group to ensure that contracts align with legal and hospital standards and in compliance with regulatory requirements, ethical and legal standards.
•    To lead negotiations for various research agreements, including, clinical trial agreements, research collaboration agreements, material transfer agreements, and confidentiality agreements.
•    To draft, review, and revise contract language to protect the institution's interests while facilitating research collaborations and clinical trials
•    To ensure all agreements comply with institutional policies, federal and state regulations, and funding agency requirements.

Stakeholder Management    
•    To serve as a liaison between researchers, sponsors, legal counsel, and other internal departments to facilitate efficient contract execution.
•    To provide guidance and education to clinicians and staff on contract-related matters and institutional policies.

Risk Management    
•    To identify and mitigate potential risks in research agreements, particularly in areas such as intellectual property, liability, and data sharing.
•    To develop strategies to address complex contractual issues and propose creative solutions, in a tactful and fair manner. 

Process Improvement    
•    To continuously evaluate and improve contract negotiation processes to enhance efficiency and turnaround times.
•    To develop and maintain contract templates and standard operating procedures.

Compliance and Reporting    
•    To ensure compliance with institutional policies, sponsor requirements, and applicable laws and regulations.
•    To maintain accurate records of all negotiations and agreements.
•    To prepare regular reports on contract activities, including metrics on negotiation timelines and outcomes.

Knowledge Management & People Development     
•    To stay current with changes in relevant laws, regulations, and best practices in research contracting.
•    To guide and mentor junior executives and managers for more effective solutions in contract negotiations

Requirements
•    Bachelor’s degree in Science, Law, Business, Life Sciences or related field. 
•    At least 8 years of relevant experience in drafting and review research-related agreements preferably within a healthcare, pharmaceutical/CRO, academic or research setting.
•    IP knowledge and commercialization background will be added advantage
•    Strong judgement and deep knowledge on complex legal clauses (IP ownership, dispute resolution)
•    Excellent interpersonal, communication and persuasive skills
•    Excellent team player
•    Experienced and diplomatic in handling conflicts
•    Demonstrated initiative and experience in enhancing workflows
•    Possess strong analytical skills
•    Able to work in a complex organizational environment, with a need to balance expectations of multiple stakeholders 
•    Strong project management skills
•    Proficient in I.T. systems and MS Office applications.