Contract Program Manager

Job Details

Job Title/Role: Contract Program Manager
Location: New Jersey (Hybrid/Remote options may apply)
Duration: 6–12 months with possible extension

Position Summary

The Program Manager operates under the matrix leadership of a Program Management Lead or functions independently as a lead for specific drug development programs. This role is assigned at the asset or indication level to deliver integrated cross-functional planning and oversee the execution of project sub-teams.

When acting as a Program Management Lead, the individual serves as a strategic partner to Global Program Leadership to shape the Target Product Profile and Integrated Development Strategy. The Project Manager is accountable for one or more cross-functional teams of moderate complexity in the early or late development space and is expected to work autonomously.

Duties & Responsibilities

Program Planning & Execution

Maintain comprehensive project plans within enterprise project management tools for all assigned projects.
Ensure all project metadata is accurate and generate project-level scenario plans.
Manage resource forecast drivers and create high-level timelines using approved standards.
Maintain detailed project plans in Microsoft Project or Planner to manage the networked critical path.
Lead project sub-teams to ensure strategic alignment and rigorous execution regarding timing and budget.

Risk & Financial Management

Lead end-to-end risk management processes, including the development and monitoring of mitigation plans for high-probability, high-impact risks.
Oversee budget and resource health for assigned projects, escalating concerns to leadership as needed.
Support annual objective-setting and long-term portfolio planning processes.

Strategic Leadership

Serve as a Subject Matter Expert (SME) in discussions with senior leadership or at governance stage gates.
Foster cross-functional thinking to drive program strategy and optimal decisions for the broader portfolio.
May serve as a matrix manager for Program Management resources assigned to the asset.

Qualifications

Education: Advanced degree (MS/MBA or Ph.D. desirable) in Life Sciences, Chemical Sciences, Physical Sciences, or a relevant discipline. PMP certification is highly desirable.
Experience: At least 8 years of direct experience in drug development program/project management. Experience in various therapeutic areas is preferred.
Technical Knowledge: Demonstrated experience in research and drug development, including global regulatory submissions (IND/CTA through NDA/BLA/MAA) and lifecycle management.
Soft Skills: Proven success in delivering programs with high enterprise visibility and strong matrix leadership abilities.
Communication: Excellent written and verbal communication skills with full professional English proficiency.

Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Statement

Our organization is an equal opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, and other legally protected characteristics. We are committed to providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities in the application and hiring process.