Lead Quality with Vision and Integrity
Senior Director, Quality Assurance | Parexel
Some quality roles focus on checking boxes. This one shapes the entire quality ecosystem.
At Parexel, we're not just conducting clinical research—we're building the quality framework that ensures every trial, every data point, and every regulatory submission meets the highest standards of integrity. We're looking for a Senior Director, Quality Assurance who understands that quality isn't a department—it's a mindset that must be embedded across the organization.
This is a leadership role for someone who can see around corners, anticipate regulatory shifts, and build teams that don't just comply—they excel.
Why This Role Exists
Because in clinical research, quality isn't optional. Because regulators expect more every year. Because our clients trust us with their most valuable assets—their molecules, their data, their reputations.
As Senior Director, you'll be the architect of our quality strategy, the guardian of our compliance standards, and the leader who ensures that every auditor, every inspector, and every stakeholder walks away confident in Parexel's commitment to excellence.
What You'll Own
Strategic Leadership
- Formulate and execute a results-oriented quality strategy for your assigned area
- Establish a clear vision, mission, and policies for quality assurance—then communicate them effectively to your team and stakeholders
- Align with senior management on current issues and anticipate future auditing needs before they become problems
Audit & Inspection Management
- Oversee the coordination and hosting of cross-functional Sponsor Audits and Regulatory Inspections
- Provide management support to QA staff during high-stakes audits and inspections
- Implement a yearly risk-based audit plan, continuously evaluating risk and adjusting accordingly
- Ensure flawless execution of the annual audit plan in coordination with peers
Compliance & Culture
- Champion compliance with all applicable regulations, laws, and Parexel procedures
- Promote a vision of compliance that extends beyond the QA department—across the entire organization
- Foster cooperation, globalization, and positive communication around quality standards
Crisis Leadership
- Effectively lead and manage crisis situations, providing clear direction and actionable solutions
- Act as the escalation point within the organization—and with external clients and regulators—for major compliance concerns
- Articulate issues to senior/executive management in a constructive, data-driven manner
Team Development
- Actively manage team performance aligned with strategic goals
- Delegate effectively, creating opportunities for others to learn and grow
- Support recruitment, supervision, training, and mentoring of the QA team
- Build character in the team through your own actions and intentions
Operational Excellence
- Implement and support the use of Audit Management applications and related metrics
- Develop and manage the budget for your assigned area
- Ensure training and development of team members
- Maintain relevant knowledge of GxP requirements and industry developments
Stakeholder Relationships
- Build, develop, and maintain strong relationships with internal and external customer groups
- Represent Parexel externally—potentially serving on industry association boards, task forces, or committees
- Contribute expertise to professional societies and academic groups
What You'll Bring
Experience & Qualifications
- 15+ years in quality assurance or a relevant area, including 5+ years of applicable GxP auditing
- 7+ years managing teams in a complex, global environment
- Degree-level education (technology, biological science, pharmacy, or health-related discipline preferred) or equivalent clinical research experience
- Strong command of written and spoken English; additional languages as required by region
Core Competencies
- Demonstrated excellence in quality assurance and management, with a focus on continuous improvement
- Knowledge of models and trends in quality assurance and organizational quality
- Proven ability to successfully manage multiple teams and multiple projects simultaneously
- Experience developing relationships with culturally diverse stakeholders—within Parexel, across client organizations, and with regulatory authorities
- Excellent interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills, including presentation experience at conferences and training sessions
- Proficiency with Microsoft applications and ability to learn internal computer systems
- Willingness to work in a matrix environment, valuing teamwork and collaboration
- Ability to work flexibly and adjust to changing priorities and unforeseen events
- Diplomacy in addressing sensitive issues with confidentiality and professionalism
- Deep knowledge of relevant national and international regulations
- Ability to analyze complex situations, communicate them effectively, and recommend solutions
Who Thrives Here
You're the person who:
- Thinks globally, not just regionally—understanding how decisions in one area ripple across the organization
- Anticipates problems before they emerge, recognizing obstacles as opportunities
- Places efforts where they add the greatest value and maximum impact
- Recognizes that attitude is a choice—and chooses one that inspires others
- Shares knowledge freely, building up those around you
- Can lead through crisis without losing sight of the bigger picture
- Knows that compliance isn't about avoiding punishment—it's about earning trust
What Parexel Offers You
💰 Competitive compensation – Salary, performance incentives, and comprehensive benefits
🌍 Global impact – Your work reaches patients in more than 100 countries
📈 Leadership platform – Shape the quality strategy for a world-leading CRO
🤝 Collaborative culture – Work alongside peers who share your commitment to excellence
🛡️ Professional growth – Opportunities to represent Parexel externally, contribute to industry standards, and continuously develop
🏖️ Flexible work – Remote role with travel up to ~60% as required
Inclusion & Belonging
At Parexel, inclusion isn't just a value—it's how we work. We're committed to providing an accessible, discrimination-free environment for all candidates. If you need accommodations during the application process, please let us know.
Ready to Lead Quality on a Global Stage?
If you're a seasoned quality leader ready to shape strategy, build teams, and ensure that every trial meets the highest standards of integrity, we want to hear from you.
Apply now to join Parexel as Senior Director, Quality Assurance.
Parexel is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.
