VP / Head of Clinical Operations

Reference: 630980Posted: 2026-09-16Location: Philadelphia, PennsylvaniaCompany: Planet Pharma GroupContact: ApplicationsEmail: View email address on click.appcast.io OverviewA growing, early-stage oncology biotech company is seeking an experienced VP / Head of Clinical Operations to provide strategic and operational leadership across multiple ongoing Phase 1 oncology clinical programs. This individual will play a critical role in advancing early-phase studies by driving execution, overseeing vendors and CROs, managing timelines and budgets, and helping scale the clinical operations function within a lean, fast-paced organization.This is an excellent opportunity for a hands-on clinical operations leader who thrives in entrepreneurial biotech environments and is comfortable rolling up their sleeves to support company-wide objectives. The role offers the potential to transition from contract to permanent employment for the right candidate.Key ResponsibilitiesProvide strategic oversight and leadership for multiple early-phase oncology clinical trials (Phase 1, Phase 2a, and Phase 2b).Lead and direct all clinical operations activities to ensure successful study execution, quality, timelines, and budget adherence.Manage and oversee CROs, vendors, and external partners to ensure performance, compliance, and operational excellence.Develop and maintain clinical study plans, timelines, risk mitigation strategies, and operational metrics.Collaborate cross-functionally with Clinical Development, Regulatory Affairs, Data Management, Biometrics, Medical Affairs, and other key stakeholders.Drive operational readiness for study start-up, enrollment, data collection, and closeout activities.Establish and optimize clinical operations processes, infrastructure, and best practices to support company growth.Monitor program budgets, forecasts, and resource allocation across the clinical portfolio.Ensure inspection readiness and compliance with GCP, ICH guidelines, and applicable regulations.Mentor and support clinical operations team members and contribute to organizational scaling efforts.Required QualificationsBachelor’s degree in life sciences or related field; advanced degree preferred.Significant clinical operations leadership experience within biotechnology and/or pharmaceutical companies.Prior experience serving as a Head of Clinical Operations, VP Clinical Operations, or equivalent senior clinical development leadership role.Demonstrated success managing early-phase oncology clinical trials, including Phase 1 studies.Strong background in immuno-oncology and solid tumor programs.Extensive experience overseeing CROs, vendors, and external clinical partners.Proven track record managing clinical trial timelines, budgets, and operational execution.Experience building, scaling, and optimizing clinical operations organizations.Ability to work effectively in a small, dynamic biotech environment with limited infrastructure.Excellent leadership, communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills.Preferred ExperienceExperience with early-stage oncology biotech companies.Background supporting investigational therapies in immuno-oncology and solid tumor indications.Previous experience transitioning organizations through growth and clinical expansion.Proximity to the Greater Philadelphia area and ability to periodically attend onsite meetings preferred.