Clinical Research Site Leader

Job Title: Clinical Research Site Leader

Department: Research Department

Reports to: Head of Research

Location: Ndevana, Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality in the Eastern Cape

Annual Salary Range: R737 796 – R1 009 077 (Depending on experience)

Purpose of the Role

Together with our client, we are recruiting for a Clinical Research Site Leader based in Zintenteni, Ndevana in the Eastern Cape. The Site Leader will provide administrative and operational leadership in the implementation of multiple clinical trials at the site. This role is accountable for site management, stakeholder coordination, staff supervision, reporting, SOP compliance, and team development, ensuring the successful delivery of all study outcomes.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Project Management

• Oversee and implement multiple studies according to timelines, ensuring compliance with GCP, study protocols, SOPs and sponsor requirements.
• Standardise processes for planning, activation, recruitment, enrolment, data cleaning and study close-out.
• Monitor study progress and ensure all performance targets are met.
• Prepare progress reports for funders and stakeholders.
• Collaborate with Principal Investigators to resolve internal and external monitoring findings.
• Ensure accurate maintenance of essential documents and Investigator Site Files.
• Attend community and stakeholder meetings to present study updates.
• Contribute to the development and review of SOPs.

1. Site Management

• Ensure daily operational readiness of the site and clinic facility.
• Allocate staff effectively across multiple studies.
• Conduct regular performance and capacity evaluations.
• Initiate recruitment processes when additional staffing resources are required.
• Act as the primary contact for sponsors and stakeholders.
• Support feasibility assessments by providing accurate site data and capabilities.

1. Staff Training & Mentorship

• Supervise and mentor research staff.
• Conduct training and retraining based on quality assessments and audit feedback.
• Guide staff in development of publications, abstracts, and presentations.
• Promote ongoing professional development.

1. Research Outputs

• Lead or contribute to scientific publications and dissemination activities.
• Lead or support the writing of grant proposals.

Qualifications & Registrations:

• Master’s Degree in Biomedical/Health or related field (Essential)
• Management Qualification (Essential)
• HPCSA Registration, if applicable
• PhD in a Biomedical/Health related field (advantageous).
• Project Management Certificate
• GCP Certification (Advantageous)

Experience:

• Minimum 5 years’ clinical trial management (Essential)
• Minimum 3 years’ clinical research site leadership (Essential)
• Strong understanding of South African regulatory requirements (SAHPRA, Ethics submissions, etc.)
• Experience with study documentation (protocols, CRFs, SOPs)
• Proven track record in publications and grant writing

Additional Requirements:

• Proficiency in English (Essential); Xhosa (Advantageous)
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office
• Ability to utilise Artificial Intelligence (AI) to improve operations
• Willingness to work flexible hours, including weekends as required
• Valid Driver’s License (Essential)

Application Process: