Who We Are
Emerald Clinical Trials is a global leader in clinical research, partnering with over 160 biotech companies and 15 of the world’s top 20 pharmaceutical firms. Headquartered in Singapore, we combine scientific excellence with operational expertise to deliver end-to-end clinical trial solutions across all phases, offering Phase I-IV and real-world studies.
With over 25 years of experience and a world-renowned focus in renal research, Emerald Clinical has helped drive medical breakthroughs through deep scientific insight, flawless execution, and an unwavering commitment to quality.
Global Expertise. Local Insight. Real Impact.
Emerald Clinical is where science, speed, and strategy come together to transform healthcare. For over 25 years, we have led the way in clinical research, combining global reach with deep Asia-Pacific expertise and unparalleled local insight to deliver smarter trials and stronger outcomes.
Our 800+ employees that span across Asia-Pacific, Europe, and the Americas areembedded in communities worldwide. We drive faster recruitment, deeper patient engagement, and meaningful results that move medicine forward.
Why Join Us?
At our core, Emerald Clinical Trials is committed to transforming clinical research by putting people first - both patients and our employees. By joining our team, you’ll be part of a global network of passionate professionals working together to deliver better research and outcomes for millions worldwide.
Here’s what makes us stand out:
• Purpose-Driven Work: You’ll contribute to clinical trials that genuinely improve lives, with a focus on therapies in renal, cardiometabolic, and oncology.
• Global Reach, Local Expertise: Our teams connect with local communities, building trust and meaningful engagement for every trial.
• Collaboration and Innovation: Work in a culture that values diverse perspectives and creative solutions to solve global health challenges.
About the Role
Emerald Clinical Trials is seeking an experienced Global Privacy Counsel to lead and further develop our global privacy function across Asia‑Pacific, Europe, and the United States. This is a critical role within our Legal team, offering the opportunity to operate at both a strategic and hands‑on level in a fast‑paced, highly regulated clinical research environment.
Reporting directly to the Group General Counsel, you will take ownership of Emerald’s global privacy programme, supporting our international clinical trial operations while embedding a strong culture of data protection and compliance across the business. You will work closely with Legal, Clinical Operations, IT, HR, Quality, and commercial teams, acting as a trusted advisor on privacy and data protection matters.
This role is well‑suited to a privacy professional who is comfortable working independently across multiple jurisdictions, managing complexity, and balancing legal rigour with practical, business‑focused solutions.
Your Responsibilities
- Lead, maintain, and continuously enhance Emerald’s global privacy framework, including policies, procedures, and operational processes
- Oversee and coordinate privacy operations supporting Emerald’s global clinical trials, with a particular focus on APAC, EU, and the US
- Perform and manage data transfer impact assessments and oversee cross‑border data transfer mechanisms
- Provide day‑to‑day privacy support across the business, including:
- Responding to internal queries
- Supporting customer audits
- Advising on data retention and local privacy requirements
- Review, negotiate, and advise on data processing agreements, data transfer agreements, security annexes, and related contractual documentation
- Maintain and manage Emerald’s records of processing activities
- Own and manage data subject rights requests, data incident risk assessments, and breach notification processes
- Support Legal with privacy‑related complaints, investigations, and potential litigation, including interactions with regulators where required
- Conduct privacy compliance reviews and present findings to relevant internal stakeholders
- Advise on privacy requirements for new business initiatives, including review of privacy notices and regulatory compliance considerations
- Support the Group General Counsel on complex or escalated privacy matters
- Design and deliver ongoing privacy training to Emerald personnel globally
- Work collaboratively across regions and time zones, escalating issues appropriately to internal leadership or external counsel when necessary
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About You
- At least 6 years’ hands‑on experience in privacy and data protection within a fast‑paced, multinational, regulated environment
- Strong practical knowledge of APAC and EU/UK data protection laws, with working knowledge of US privacy laws highly desirable
- Proven experience handling APAC privacy regimes, including PDPA, PIPL, and the Australian Privacy Act, as well as cross‑border data transfer issues
- Experience within the pharmaceutical, life sciences, or CRO sector (highly advantageous)
- Strong drafting and negotiation skills across:
- Data processing and data transfer agreements
- Vendor and commercial contracts
- Internal privacy policies and procedures
- A pragmatic, business‑oriented mindset, with the ability to manage competing priorities across multiple jurisdictions and stakeholders
- Excellent communication skills, with the ability to translate complex legal and technical concepts for non‑legal colleagues, senior leaders, and regulators
- A high level of independence and accountability, with the ability to work remotely while staying closely connected to global teams
- Flexibility to collaborate across EU and US business hours
- A degree in Law, Business, or a related field, with additional data protection or privacy qualifications preferred
What We Offer
We understand that great work happens when people feel valued and supported. That’s why we provide:
• Competitive Compensation: A tailored salary and benefits package to reflect your skills and experience.
• Flexibility: Enjoy hybrid or remote working arrangements, depending on your location and role.
• Career Growth: Access to a wealth of learning opportunities and a global network of scientific leaders to help you grow and develop in your role.
• Employee Wellbeing: Participate in programs and initiatives designed to promote work-life balance, health, and team connection, including global engagement surveys, recognition programs, and team-building events.
• Global Opportunities: Be part of a company with international reach, offering you exposure to diverse projects and clients.
Interested? Apply now and help us achieve our mission to improve the health of millions worldwide.
We are an equal-opportunity employer and encourage applications from all qualified candidates.
