Sponsor Dedicated Site Startup Lead

Role Summary

At Fortrea , we believe in improving lives through the power of science, collaboration, and innovation. As a global CRO partner, we support mission-driven sponsors in bringing new therapies to the patients who need them.

We’re now hiring a Study Start-Up Lead to join a sponsor‑dedicated team and drive the successful planning and activation of clinical trials. If you are passionate about accelerating study timelines, using data to guide decisions, and mentoring study start-up teams - this role offers you the opportunity to create a real impact.

Responsibilities

In this role, you will lead, guide, and empower site activation teams across multiple countries. You will:

• Partner closely with Clinical Operations to improve study start-up metrics and implement optimized processes.
• Provide leadership, oversight, and mentoring to the FSP Site Start-Up team supporting global clinical programs.
• Develop and refine data-driven forecasting models, planning scenarios, and benchmarking tools.
• Create country-specific Informed Consent Forms (ICFs) based on master templates and local requirements.
• Ensure SSU standards are applied consistently across projects and support ongoing process improvements.
• Lead data collection and analysis to influence SSU timelines and strategic decisions.
• Use leading industry data sources and tools to support forecasting, site readiness insights, and cycle-time optimization.
• Agree on site-level deliverables with internal teams; identify delays early and escalate when needed.
• Drive delivery of “Ready to Enroll” status for both sponsor and CRO-supported sites.
• Serve as the escalation point for site activation challenges, partnering with Study Managers to resolve issues.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Life Sciences (or international equivalent).
• 4+ years of experience in clinical operations, project management, SSU, or trial optimization.
• 2+ years directly managing site activation and study start-up processes within a sponsor or CRO.
• Proven experience with country-level ICF creation .
• Strong proficiency with data models , forecasting tools, and database structures.
• Experience working in global site start-up environments strongly preferred.
• Ability to explain complex data clearly and support data-driven decision-making.
• Expert understanding of factors that drive successful study start-up and site selection strategies.
• Fluency in local language and English.

About the Company

Why join Fortrea ?

Work in a collaborative, global environment with experts passionate about improving clinical research.

Influence data-driven study start-up strategies for large-scale international programs.

Play a key role in optimizing processes , bringing fresh ideas, and driving continuous improvement.

Ready to make an impact?

Join Fortrea and play a key role in bringing new therapies to patients faster.

Apply today and help shape the future of clinical research.

Learn more about our EEO & Accommodations request here.