Associate Project Director (Early Phase Clinical Trials), China
Who We Are
Emerald Clinical Trials is a global leader in clinical research, partnering with over 160 biotech companies and 15 of the world’s top 20pharmaceutical firms. Headquartered in Singapore, we combine scientific excellence with operational expertise to deliver end-to-end clinical trial solutions across all phases, offering Phase I-IV and real-world studies.
With over 25 years of experience and a world-renowned focus in renal research, Emerald Clinical has helped drive medical breakthroughs through deep scientific insight, flawless execution, and an unwavering commitment to quality.
Global Expertise. Local Insight. Real Impact.
Emerald Clinical is where science, speed, and strategy come together to transform healthcare. For over 25 years, we have led the way in clinical research, combining global reach with deep Asia-Pacific expertise and unparalleled local insight to deliver smarter trials and stronger outcomes.
Our 800+ employees that span across Asia-Pacific, Europe, and the Americas are embedded in communities worldwide. We drive faster recruitment, deeper patient engagement, and meaningful results that move medicine forward.
About the Role
The Associate Project Director (APD) in Early Phase team at Emerald Clinical is responsible for the overall management and quality of a project or group of projects for a particular client, therapeutic area or other speciality area. The role may be local, regional or globally focused depending on the project(s) under the Project Director’s responsibility. The APD is responsible for all aspects of project delivery, project quality and financial accountability and managing the Sponsor’s expectations. Depending on the project, the APD may be named as the Project Lead.
Responsibilities
Financial and Contractual
Analyse monthly financial reports for all allocated projects to identify trends and reasons behind figures, escalate as required.
Ensure project managers understand all aspects of their project finance responsibilities and follow appropriate escalation pathways
Maintain project realization, identify and implement strategies for improvement (if required) and escalate any significant concerns to management
Maintain gross margin across allocated projects to meet organisational goals.
Review forecasts for all allocated projects in consultation with each allocated lead project manager at least every quarter and develop contingency plans to address any project slippage
Oversee pass through report management to ensure reports are finalised within agreed timelines
Oversee project review reporting to ensure reports are accurate, timely and prepared within agreed timelines
Work directly with the Business Development (BD) team on all proposals and pricing related to allocated projects
Review of all scope change documentation prior to submission to sponsor (in consultation with BD)
Seek opportunities for expansion of scope and proactively follow up with BD & Sponsor
Project Delivery and Reporting
Responsible for oversight of contracted functional services including study startup, execution, and study closeout.
Ensure collaborate with project managers to determine project resourcing needs and ensure information is shared with line management on an ongoing basis
Ensure all allocated projects are delivered in accordance with customer and Emerald Clinical requirements, procedures, processes and contract
Ensure compliance with budget across allocated projects and perform monthly analysis of time sheet data to identify scope creep and areas of inefficiency, escalate to management as required
Ensure continuity of delivery across allocated projects with a view to increase project efficiency and quality
Perform ongoing risk analysis and strategic planning for allocated projects
Line Management & Team Leadership
Manage the performance, professional development and personal development of line reports including, objective setting, coaching/mentoring, training, remuneration and compensation review, career planning
Monitor performance of team members with respect to quality and efficiency performance indicators
Mentor and coach project managers in their role and responsibilities for project delivery and project team oversight
Provide clear guidance to project managers or other staff on project specific deliverables.
Customer Focus and Business Development
Initiate and maintain relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including trial sponsor staff and investigators
Work directly with the BD team on proposals as requested
Review and contribute to scope change proposals for allocated projects prior to finalisation and sponsor review
Provide technical advice and suggestions for process improvement to other areas of Emerald Clinical as required
About You
Tertiary qualifications in a related science or health care discipline
Experience and expertise in clinical trials research – ideally a minimum of 8 years, including extensive experience with Phase I studies
Experience in clinical project management– ideally a minimum of 5 years in a project management position
Line management experience in project management or/or clinical operations is desirable
Demonstrated expertise in clinical project management and study methodology
Experience in managing vendors and suppliers to successful delivery
Highly developed interpersonal, relationship building, negotiation and conflict resolution skills
Fluent in both English and Chinese
Why Join Us?
At our core, Emerald Clinical Trials is committed to transforming clinical research by putting people first—both patients and our employees. By joining our team, you’ll be part of a global network of passionate professionals working together to deliver better research and outcomes for millions worldwide.
Here’s what makes us stand out:
• Purpose-Driven Work: You’ll contribute to clinical trials that genuinely improve lives, with a focus on therapies in renal, cardiometabolic, and oncology.
• Global Reach, Local Expertise: Our teams connect with local communities, building trust and meaningful engagement for every trial.
• Collaboration and Innovation: Work in a culture that values diverse perspectives and creative solutions to solve global health challenges.
What We Offer
We understand that great work happens when people feel valued and supported. That’s why we provide:
• Competitive Compensation: A tailored salary and benefits package to reflect your skills and experience.
• Flexibility: Enjoy hybrid or remote working arrangements, depending on your location and role.
• Career Growth: Access to a wealth of learning opportunities and a global network of scientific leaders to help you grow and develop in your role.
• Employee Wellbeing: Participate in programs and initiatives designed to promote work-life balance, health, and team connection, including global engagement surveys, recognition programs, and team-building events.
• Global Opportunities: Be part of a company with international reach, offering you exposure to diverse projects and clients.
Interested? Apply now and help us achieve our mission to improve the health of millions worldwide.
We are an equal-opportunity employer and encourage applications from all qualified candidates.
- Department
- Project Management
- Locations
- China - Shanghai, China - Beijing
- Remote status
- Hybrid