Proposals and Contracts Manager
This position is listed on behalf of a partner company, who manages all applications and next steps. Our partner is looking for a Proposals and Contracts Manager based in the United States.
This remote role sits at the intersection of business development, contracting, finance, and clinical research operations.
You will lead proposal and contract activities that support the development and delivery of clinical research programs.
The position involves managing complex RFPs, developing budgets, coordinating subject-matter experts, and negotiating contractual terms.
You will work closely with Operations, Project Management, Legal, Finance, Business Development, and client stakeholders.
Success in the role requires strong analytical thinking, commercial awareness, organization, and the ability to deliver high-quality work under demanding deadlines.
You will also help identify risks, resolve contractual or proposal challenges, and maintain strong client relationships throughout the process.
The role offers a collaborative, multicultural environment with opportunities to broaden expertise across proposals, contracting, finance, and clinical research.
Accountabilities
Manage the full RFP lifecycle, from receipt and analysis through SME coordination, proposal development, review, and final submission.
Develop strategic proposals and budgets that incorporate subject-matter expertise while adhering to internal policies, pricing structures, and client specifications.
Lead contract development, review, negotiation, and finalization in collaboration with Legal, Finance, Operations, Business Development, and other internal stakeholders.
Establish and maintain account-specific contract standards, including budget formats, payment terms, and contractual language.
Lead client discussions and negotiations involving pricing, costs, payment terms, and other contractual details, with limited supervision.
Identify potential barriers within RFP and contract processes and develop practical mitigation strategies to maintain timelines and client satisfaction.
Coordinate multiple complex proposals and contracting activities simultaneously, prioritizing workloads and maintaining quality under strict deadlines.
Maintain accurate proposal, contract, and supporting documentation in appropriate systems and ensure data is kept current for reporting, metrics, and KPI tracking.
Collaborate across a matrixed organization to ensure proposals and contracts align with operational requirements, commercial objectives, regulatory expectations, and client needs.
Support strong client relationships through responsive communication, effective problem-solving, and consistent delivery of high-quality materials.
Bachelor’s degree in Life Science, Business, Languages, or a related discipline, or an equivalent combination of education and professional experience.
4-6 years of experience in project support, finance, contracting, proposal management, or a comparable function within a CRO or similarly regulated environment.
Demonstrated expertise in proposal and contract management, including pricing structures, contractual terms, and relevant business systems such as Salesforce.
Working knowledge of clinical trial processes, contract management principles, pricing structures, cash flow, and revenue recognition.
Strong analytical and organizational abilities, with demonstrated success managing multiple priorities and delivering accurate work under pressure.
Excellent written, verbal, negotiation, and interpersonal communication skills, including confidence interacting with stakeholders at different organizational levels.
Strong attention to detail and a commitment to high-quality, timely deliverables.
Ability to understand complex business requirements, identify problems, and develop practical solutions.
Proficiency with business software and productivity tools including Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, Windows, and database systems.
Understanding of clinical research operations and the ability to operate independently within a matrix organization.
Ability to work remotely and accommodate irregular or extended hours when necessary to meet client proposal deadlines.
Experience in multinational and multicultural environments is preferred.
MBA or another advanced business degree is preferred.
Previous proposal development experience within clinical research or CRO environments is preferred.
Supervisory, mentoring, or team leadership experience is a plus.
Base salary: $85,000-$100,000 annually, with the final offer depending on location, experience, education, skills, professional achievements, and position level.
Potential eligibility for additional incentives, bonuses, or other compensation programs.
Health, vision, and dental insurance.
401(k) plan with company matching.
Paid vacation, holidays, and sick time.
Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) and Health Savings Accounts (HSA).
Tuition reimbursement.
Pet insurance.
Life insurance and additional employee benefit offerings, subject to applicable plan terms and eligibility.
Flexible remote work environment supporting work-life balance.
Opportunities for professional growth and continued learning across clinical research, business development, finance, and contracting.