Thermo Fisher Scientific

Director IT - Financial Transformation

Thermo Fisher Scientific • $150K — $180K *
Healthcare
11 - 15 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in IT, Computer Science, Business, Finance, or related field.
  • 12+ years of progressive IT leadership experience.
  • 7+ years supporting enterprise Finance organizations.
  • 5+ years leading global ERP implementations or support organizations.
  • Experience leading geographically distributed teams.
  • Understanding of financial operations within clinical trials or life sciences.

Responsibilities

  • Develop and execute a multi-year technology roadmap for Finance.
  • Align IT investments with Finance strategic priorities for efficiency and compliance.
  • Serve as a technology advisor to Finance leadership across clinical sites.
  • Evaluate and implement emerging technologies for finance operations.
  • Own and enhance the ERP systems supporting Finance operations.
  • Lead the modernization and continuous improvement of Finance systems.
  • Standardize finance business processes globally within the Clinical Trials Division.

Benefits

  • Comprehensive health insurance plans.
  • Flexible work schedule options.
  • Professional development opportunities.
  • Retirement savings plan with company match.
  • Generous paid time off policy.
Full Job Description
Work Schedule
Standard (Mon-Fri)

Environmental Conditions
Office

Job Description

DESCRIPTION:
The IT Director - Global Finance Systems is responsible for defining and executing the technology strategy supporting the organization's global Finance function within the Clinical Trials Division. This role partners closely with Finance leadership to deliver scalable, standardized, and compliant business processes through enterprise technologies, with primary ownership of the Oracle Cloud Financials platform and related financial systems.

The Director leads the team responsible for finance system strategy, finance applications, and business process transformation. Success in this role requires balancing business partnership, technology leadership, governance, and operational excellence while driving simplification, standardization, and automation across global finance operations.

DESCRIPTION

Key Responsibilities

Finance Technology Strategy
  • Develop and execute the multi-year technology roadmap supporting the Finance organization within CTD.
  • Align IT investments with Finance strategic priorities including digital transformation, compliance, operational efficiency, and scalability.
  • Serve as the trusted technology advisor to VP Finance, Finance process owners, and regional finance leaders across clinical trial sites.
  • Lead evaluation and implementation of emerging technologies including AI, automation, analytics, and cloud-based finance solutions that support clinical research financial operations.

ERP Leadership
  • Own the system and platforms supporting Finance operations (SAP S/4HANA, Oracle Cloud ERP,etc.).
  • Drive ERP modernization, optimization, and continuous improvement initiatives aligned with clinical research business needs.
  • Lead Finance system upgrades, releases, migrations, and transformation programs.
  • Establish governance for ERP configuration and enhancements specific to CTD requirements.

Global Process Standardization
  • Lead enterprise-wide efforts to standardize finance business processes across regions and business units within the clinical trials division.
  • Partner with Global Process Owners to define global process templates and eliminate unnecessary customization while supporting clinical trial-specific financial requirements.
  • Promote adoption of best practices and common operating models across clinical research sites globally.
  • Drive simplification through process harmonization while balancing regulatory and regional requirements critical to clinical research operations.
  • Champion process documentation, governance, and continuous improvement methodologies.

Key process areas include:
  • Record-to-Report
  • Procure-to-Pay
  • Order-to-Cash
  • Fixed Assets
  • Financial Close
  • Treasury
  • Tax
  • Consolidation
  • Planning & Forecasting
  • Master Data Management

Business Partnership
  • Build strong relationships with Finance executives and business stakeholders across the Clinical Trials Division.
  • Translate business strategy into technology capabilities that support clinical trial financial management.
  • Lead steering committees and governance forums.

Transformation & Program Leadership
  • Lead global finance transformation initiatives from strategy through implementation within CTD.
  • Oversee cross-functional programs involving Finance, IT, Clinical Operations, Quality, Regulatory, and external partners.
  • Manage project portfolios, budgets, risks, and executive communications.
  • Drive organizational change management and user adoption across global teams.

Application Portfolio Management

Responsible for the global Finance application ecosystem including:
  • ERP
  • Consolidation
  • Financial Planning & Analysis
  • Accounts Payable Automation
  • Treasury Management
  • Tax Systems
  • Revenue Recognition
  • Expense Management
  • Financial Reporting
  • Data Integration
  • Analytics & Business Intelligence

Governance & Compliance
  • Ensure systems support SOX, internal controls, audit, and regulatory requirements.
  • Establish application governance standards aligned with clinical trial industry requirements.
  • Ensure appropriate segregation of duties within financial systems supporting clinical trial operations.

Leadership
  • Develop talent and succession plans.
  • Foster a culture of accountability, innovation, and continuous improvement.
  • Manage strategic vendor relationships and outsourced service providers supporting clinical trial finance operations.

REQUIREMENTS

Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, Business, Finance, or related field.
  • 12+ years of progressive IT leadership experience.
  • 7+ years supporting enterprise Finance organizations.
  • 5+ years leading global ERP implementations or support organizations.
  • Experience leading and working with geographically distributed teams.
  • Understanding of clinical trial or life sciences industry financial operations.

Preferred Experience
  • Oracle Cloud ERP, SAP, or other enterprise systems.
  • Finance transformation initiatives within clinical trials or life sciences environments.
  • Shared Services organizations supporting global operations.
  • Global process ownership models.
  • System or cloud migrations.
  • Mergers & acquisitions integration in the life sciences sector.
  • Pharmaceutical, biotechnology, or life sciences industry experience.
  • Familiarity with clinical trial financial management and passthrough cost models.


Technical Expertise

Strong knowledge of:
  • ERP Finance modules
  • General Ledger
  • Accounts Payable
  • Accounts Receivable
  • Fixed Assets
  • Cost Accounting
  • Treasury
  • Tax
  • Consolidation
  • Financial Planning & Analysis
  • Master Data Management
  • Integration platforms
  • Financial systems supporting clinical trial operations

Leadership Competencies
  • Strategic thinking
  • Executive communication
  • Business acumen
  • Financial management
  • Organizational leadership
  • Influence without authority
  • Change leadership
  • Talent development
  • Customer focus
  • Results orientation
  • Cross-functional collaboration
  • Global mindset
  • Understanding of clinical research business models

Success Measures

Success in this role will be measured by:
  • Increased global finance process standardization across CRG operations.
  • ERP platform stability and performance supporting clinical trial financial operations.
  • Reduction in customizations and technical debt.
  • On-time and on-budget delivery of transformation initiatives.
  • Improved financial close efficiency.
  • Increased automation of finance processes.
  • Improved system adoption and user satisfaction across global clinical sites.
  • Compliance with audit and regulatory requirements.
  • Delivery of measurable business value from technology investments in clinical research operations.

Strategic Focus Areas

This role is expected to lead initiatives that:
  • Standardize finance processes across all regions and business units within the Clinical Trials Division.
  • Modernize and optimize the enterprise ERP platform to support clinical trial financial management.
  • Improve data quality, governance, and reporting consistency for clinical trial financial data.
  • Simplify the finance application landscape while meeting the unique needs of clinical trial operations.
  • Strengthen the partnership between Finance and IT to accelerate business transformation across the Clinical Trials Division.

About Thermo Fisher Scientific

Thermo Fisher Scientific Careers

Join the vibrant team at Thermo Fisher Scientific, a global leader in serving science and making the world healthier, cleaner, and safer. With a workforce of over 75,000 professionals, Thermo Fisher Scientific offers unparalleled job opportunities and a culture of innovation that propels your career to new heights. Work You’ll Do At Thermo Fisher Scientific, you will be part of a team that is dedicated to enabling our customers to make the world healthier. Whether you are involved in the development of life-saving drugs or innovative environmental solutions, your work will have a profound impact on society. Our commitment to leadership in the industry is unwavering. With Thermo Fisher Scientific, you will lead projects that set standards in scientific inquiry and market leadership. You will work at the intersection of science, technology, and industry expertise, driving digital innovation in every aspect of our business. Join our diverse team of professionals and engage in roles that span across various functions and disciplines. From research and development to marketing and sales, the breadth of job opportunities available means that you can find the perfect match for your skills and passions. Innovative Work As part of our team, you will have access to cutting-edge tools and technologies that foster creativity and innovation. Thermo Fisher Scientific is home to a dynamic range of career paths, all designed to challenge you and help you grow as a professional. Our employment philosophy emphasizes diversity and inclusivity, ensuring that all team members have the opportunity to thrive. We believe in nurturing talent through robust training programs, leadership development, and opportunities for career advancement. Be Part of a Great Team Working at Thermo Fisher Scientific means being part of a global network of enthusiastic, talented, and ambitious individuals. Our culture is built on collaboration, where each member’s unique skills and perspectives are valued. You will enjoy benefits that support both your professional growth and personal well-being. Future-Proof Your Career Embark on a journey of growth and continuous learning with Thermo Fisher Scientific. We offer a variety of training and development programs that cater to your interests and career goals. From internships for budding scientists to leadership training for aspiring executives, our programs are designed to equip you with the skills needed for a successful and fulfilling career. Explore Discover how our commitment to innovation leads to advancements in health and science: [Read More] Learn about our leadership in environmental sustainability and how you can contribute: [Read More] The Thermo Fisher Scientific Difference Our global presence and commitment to innovation mean that your work extends beyond borders and makes a tangible impact worldwide. The collaboration between our teams drives our leadership in the scientific community and contributes to a culture that embraces diversity and fosters professional growth. Stay Connected Join Our Team Search open positions that match your skills and interest. We are always on the lookout for passionate, curious, and driven team players. Explore our job opportunities and find out how you can contribute to our meaningful work. SEARCH THERMO FISHER SCIENTIFIC JOBS Keep Up to Date Stay ahead with career tips, insider perspectives, and industry-leading insights you can put to use today—all from the people who work here. READ CAREERS BLOG Job Alert Emails Customize your subscription to receive job alerts, latest news, and insider tips tailored to your preferences. Discover the exciting and rewarding opportunities that await at Thermo Fisher Scientific.
Learn more about Thermo Fisher Scientific
Size
130,000 employees
Market Cap
$213.3 billion
Industry
Net Income
$6.3 billion
Founded
1956
5 Year Trend
+16.5%
Revenue
$32.2 billion
NASDAQ

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