Senior Program Manager - Pharma R&D Digital Transformation
Confirmed on the employer's own hiring board on Nov 3, 2026. First seen by Alion on Sep 14, 2026. Zifo scores A on the Alion truth index.
Zifo is seeking a seasoned Senior Program Manager to lead a large-scale digital transformation initiative within a global pharmaceutical R&D environment.
This highly visible, client-facing role requires a leader who can successfully drive complex programs spanning business transformation, technology implementation, process optimization, and organizational change. The ideal candidate will possess deep life sciences industry experience, exceptional stakeholder management skills, and a proven track record delivering enterprise-scale programs.
As a trusted advisor to client leadership, you will lead global cross-functional teams and ensure successful delivery of strategic business outcomes.
Requirements
- Lead complex, multi-year transformation programs from initiation through execution and adoption.
- Serve as the primary client-facing program leader and executive point of contact.
- Manage program scope, timelines, budgets, risks, dependencies, and governance processes.
- Facilitate executive steering committees, stakeholder reviews, and decision-making forums.
- Coordinate global cross-functional teams spanning business, product, engineering, data, and delivery functions.
- Drive organizational change management, communications, training, and user adoption activities.
- Establish and maintain executive dashboards, program metrics, and performance reporting.
- Build strong relationships with senior client stakeholders and navigate complex organizational environments.
- Ensure successful delivery of business value while maintaining high standards of quality and customer satisfaction.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Life Sciences, Pharmacy, Biotechnology, Engineering, Computer Science, Business, or a related field.
- 12+ years of experience within the pharmaceutical, biotechnology, life sciences, or healthcare industry.
- 8+ years of program management experience leading large, cross-functional initiatives.
- Demonstrated success delivering enterprise-scale business and technology transformation programs.
- Strong understanding of pharmaceutical R&D, Clinical Development, or related life sciences business functions.
- Proven experience managing global delivery teams and senior stakeholder relationships.
- Exceptional communication, leadership, negotiation, and influencing skills.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience within Clinical Development, Clinical Operations, Regulatory Affairs, Medical Affairs, R&D, or related domains.
- Experience leading digital transformation, platform implementation, or enterprise technology programs.
- Knowledgeable in Agile delivery methodologies and modern product operating models.
- PMP, PgMP, SAFe, Prosci, or equivalent certification preferred.
What We Are Looking For
- Executive presence and strong client-facing capabilities.
- Strategic thinker with excellent execution discipline.
- Strong organizational change management mindset.
- Ability to manage ambiguity and drive decisions in complex environments.
- Collaborative leader capable of influencing across business and technology organizations.
- Passion for delivering transformational outcomes in the life sciences industry.
Benefits
About Zifo:
CURIOSITY DRIVEN, SCIENCE FOCUSED, EMPLOYEE BUILT. Our culture is unlike any other, one where we debate, challenge ourselves, and interact with all alike. We are a curious bunch, characterized by our passion to learn and spirit of teamwork. Zifo is a global R&D solutions provider focused on the industries of Pharma, Biotech, Manufacturing QC, Medical Devices, specialty chemicals and other research-based organizations. Our team’s knowledge of science and expertise in technology help Zifo better serve our customers around the globe, including 7 of the Top 10 Biopharma companies.
We look for Science - Biotechnology, Pharmaceutical Technology, Biomedical Engineering, Microbiology etc. We possess scientific and technical knowledge and bear professional and personal goals. While we have a “no doors” policy to promote free access within, we do have a tough door to walk in. We search with a two-point agenda - technical competency and cultural adaptability.
We offer a competitive compensation package including accrued vacation, medical, dental, vision, 401k with company matching, life insurance, and flexible spending accounts.
If you share these sentiments and are prepared for the atypical, then Zifo is your calling!
Zifo is an equal opportunity employer, and we value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.