đ Accelerate Clinical Trial Start-Up: Site Activation Manager, China
Join ICON plc, a world-leading healthcare intelligence and clinical research organization, as a Site Activation Manager in China. This is a pivotal leadership role within our Feasibility & Site Activation (FSA) function, where you will be the strategic driver responsible for planning and leading clinical trial start-up activities across the country. Your expertise will directly determine the speed and efficiency with which our studies can begin, accelerating patient access to innovative treatments.
We are seeking an experienced, project-driven leader with deep expertise in China's clinical trial start-up landscape. If you excel at strategy, thrive on overcoming regulatory and operational challenges, and are passionate about building high-performing teams to deliver against aggressive timelines, this is your opportunity to shape the future of clinical development with a global leader.
đŻ Your Site Activation Leadership Mission: Key Responsibilities
Strategic Start-Up Planning & Leadership
- Lead clinical trial start-up strategy by understanding client objectives and developing robust plans for optimal country and site distribution across China.
- Oversee the day-to-day delivery of all site activation activities for assigned projects, ensuring execution aligns with the site activation plan, sponsor timelines, and quality standards.
- Utilize advanced project management skills to optimize team performance, foster collaboration, and drive successful study outcomes from feasibility through to site initiation.
Stakeholder Engagement & Client Partnership
- Serve as the primary start-up lead for sponsor initiatives, including kick-off meetings, bid defenses, and project status calls.
- Act as the key point of contact and escalation for all site activation matters, building strong relationships with internal teams, investigative sites, and clients.
- Ensure all activities are conducted in compliance with ICON/client SOPs, KPIs, and Chinese regulatory requirements (NMPA).
Team Oversight & Process Excellence
- Ensure each project has a comprehensive, actionable site activation plan and is conducted effectively to meet sponsor expectations.
- Apply your deep understanding of China's regulatory and submission processes to guide the team, mitigate risks, and resolve complex challenges.
- Mentor and guide start-up teams, promoting a culture of accountability, delivery, and continuous improvement.
â Your Profile: Site Activation Manager Expertise
Essential Requirements
- Bachelorâs Degree, preferably in Life Sciences or a related field.
- Minimum of 5 years of direct experience in Clinical Trial Start-Up, Site Activation, Initiation, and Close-out activities within China.
- Prior experience as a Senior Site Start-Up Associate (SSUA) or in a comparable lead start-up role is required.
- Proven experience in project management within a clinical research environment (CRO or Sponsor).
- Expert understanding of Chinese regulatory and ethical submission processes across multiple provinces.
- Professional proficiency in both Mandarin and English (written and verbal).
- Ability to work effectively under pressure and deliver against tight deadlines.
Core Leadership Competencies
- Strategic Project Leader:Â Demonstrated ability to plan, execute, and deliver complex start-up projects on time and within scope.
- Exceptional Communicator:Â Excellent written and verbal communication skills for effective client management, team leadership, and stakeholder alignment.
- Problem-Solver & Decision-Maker:Â Ability to anticipate risks, navigate regulatory complexities, and make sound decisions to keep projects on track.
- Collaborative & Driven:Â Embodies ICONâs âOwn Itâ culture of Accountability, Collaboration, Partnership, and Integrity.
đŤ Why Lead Site Activation at ICON in China?
Define the Pace of Clinical Research
- Your leadership directly accelerates the start of clinical trials, a critical factor in global drug development timelines.
- Play a central role in one of the world's most important clinical research markets, with a tangible impact on patient health.
Career Growth in a Leadership Role
- This is a high-visibility, strategic position with significant opportunities for advancement into FSA Leadership, Portfolio Management, and Director-level roles.
- Lead and shape a critical function within a company that is a partner of choice in drug development.
Work in a Culture of Excellence
- Join a dynamic, supportive environment driven by bright, friendly professionals who share a mission to advance patients' lives.
- Be part of our âOwn Itâ culture that values delivery, collaboration, and integrity.
Competitive ICON Benefits in China
- Very competitive salary package and performance-based bonuses.
- Comprehensive health insurance offerings for you and your family.
- Generous annual leave entitlements.
- Competitive retirement planning offerings.
- Global Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) providing 24/7 support.
- A strong commitment to your professional development and career growth.
â¨Â Ready to Own and Accelerate Clinical Trial Start-Up in China?
If you are a seasoned start-up expert with leadership prowess and a drive to set new standards for speed and efficiency, we encourage you to apply. This Site Activation Manager role is your chance to lead from the front and be the catalyst for launching groundbreaking clinical research.
Apply Now and become the strategic leader who turns study protocols into active, recruiting sites.
