Clinical Research DirectorSouthwest Women's Oncology | Albuquerque, New Mexico
The OpportunityThis is not a maintenance role. You are building something.
As Clinical Research Director, you will design and lead the clinical research vertical at SWWO-establishing the strategy, systems, team, and relationships that will define what this program becomes. You will work at the intersection of scientific rigor, operational excellence, and patient impact, partnering with:
- Gynecologic oncology physicians serving as Principal Investigators
- Pharmaceutical sponsors, CROs, and cooperative group partners
- Clinical Research Coordinators, data specialists, and research support staff
- Executive leadership and the broader Optimum platform
- Regulatory bodies including FDA, NIH, and IRB
You will have the authority, the resources, and the leadership support to build a program that changes what's possible for patients in New Mexico and beyond.
What You'll OwnStrategy & Program Leadership
- Build, scale, and manage the clinical research vertical within SWWO, developing long-term strategy, infrastructure, and resourcing plans.
- Partner with the Executive Team to align research strategy with organizational goals and clinical priorities.
- Evaluate new research opportunities and develop business cases for study selection, site expansion, and external partnerships.
Trial Operations
- Lead the full lifecycle of clinical trials-feasibility, start-up, recruitment, execution, monitoring, and close-out.
- Oversee study budgets, billing compliance, and financial performance; ensure accurate reporting and forecasting.
- Maintain compliance with ICH-GCP, FDA, NIH, IRB, and all institutional requirements.
- Develop, implement, and continuously refine Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for research operations.
Team Development
- Hire, onboard, mentor, and manage a team of Clinical Research Coordinators, data specialists, and research support staff.
- Build a culture of excellence, accountability, scientific integrity, and continuous improvement within the research team.
- Oversee performance management and professional development for all direct reports.
Sponsor & Stakeholder Relations
- Serve as primary liaison for pharmaceutical sponsors, CROs, investigators, and regulatory agencies.
- Support Principal Investigators in protocol execution and ensure appropriate documentation and data integrity.
- Represent SWWO in research networks, professional associations, and at industry conferences.
Compliance & Continuous Improvement
- Ensure all research is conducted ethically and adheres to institutional, state, and federal regulations.
- Oversee audit readiness, inspection preparation, and corrective action processes.
- Identify and implement process improvements and emerging technologies to optimize research operations.
What Success Looks LikeFirst 90 Days
- Deep working knowledge of existing research activity, infrastructure gaps, and near-term trial opportunities.
- Strong relationships established with physician investigators, executive leadership, and key external partners.
- A clear 12-month program development roadmap presented and aligned with leadership.
First 6 Months
- Active trials operational and enrollment on track.
- Research team structure defined, hired, and performing.
- SOPs, compliance frameworks, and billing processes in place and audit-ready.
First Year
- A research program that is recognized, respected, and growing.
- Measurable patient enrollment, sponsor relationships, and trial portfolio expansion.
- A team and a culture that reflects the Optimum Standard.
Who Thrives HereWe want people who bring relentless positivity, a hunger to learn, and the drive to elevate everyone around them. You will likely thrive if:
- You take ownership rather than waiting for direction.
- You believe details matter.
- You enjoy solving problems and seek continuous improvement.
- You care deeply about patients and their families.
- You value teamwork and accountability equally.
- You're coachable, curious, and committed to mastery.
What You BringRequired
- Bachelor's degree in a health science, life science, or related field.
- 10+ years of clinical research experience, including 5+ years in a leadership or director-level role.
- Proven ability to build, scale, and manage a clinical research program or site.
- Deep understanding of ICH-GCP, FDA, NIH, and clinical research compliance standards.
- Experience coordinating Phase II-IV therapeutic drug or device trials.
- Strong business and financial acumen, including experience with clinical research budgeting, billing compliance, and contract management.
- Excellent communication, relationship management, and negotiation skills.
Preferred
- Master's degree in a relevant field.
- Prior experience leading oncology or gynecologic oncology clinical trials.
- CCRP, CCRC, or equivalent certification.
- Established relationships with pharmaceutical sponsors, CROs, or cooperative research groups.
Compensation & Benefits- Competitive salary
- Health benefits
- 401(k)
- Paid time off
- Professional development and continuing education support
- Opportunity to grow within the Optimum Platform
This is a full-time, on-site position at our Albuquerque, New Mexico office.
