Clinical Vendor Manager

On behalf of our client, a global pharmaceutical company, IQVIA is looking for a Vendor Management Lead, Drug Development based in Italy.The role is responsible for selection, contracting, oversight, and performance management of external vendors and collaborators supporting clinical development.External vendors include CROs, CMOs, central labs, and bioanalytical labs; external collaborators include academic and clinical researchers.The candidate will work cross-functionally with internal and external stakeholders to ensure that Italy-based vendors and collaborators deliver high-quality, timely, and cost-effective services that align with clinical, CMC, and regulatory requirements.ResponsibilitiesRepresent the organization cross-functionally among clinical, regulatory, project management, and other functional areas across Italy, other European countries, and potentially other regions.Identify and assess CROs, CMOs, central labs, specialty vendors, and other service providers.Lead the RFI and RFP processes, evaluating vendors based on capabilities, compliance, cost, and timelines.Oversee site selection, recruitment, and monitoring activities for clinical trials within Italy.Collaborate with quality teams to ensure vendor compliance with GCP, GMP, GLP, ICH guidelines, and company policies.Manage external service providers, ensuring all deliverables are met.Facilitate inter-vendor processes such as transfers of materials and data.Work with Program Management to develop and manage budgets and timelines.Track and report on vendor budgets, progress, KPIs, and other metrics to senior leadership.Implement CAPAs when performance gaps occur.Coordinate with finance teams to review purchase orders, invoice approvals, and financial reconciliation.Provide vendor-related insights for regulatory submissions (IND, CTA, NDA/BLA) and inspection readiness.Represent the company at vendor meetings and conferences as needed.QualificationsBachelor's degree in Life Sciences or a related field; advanced degree (Master's or PhD) preferred.Minimum of 5 years clinical operations experience in pharma, biotech, or medical device industry, with at least 2 years in vendor-management.Experience managing CROs, CMOs, bioanalytical labs, central labs, and clinical technology vendors.Understanding of clinical trial design, execution, and regulatory requirements (GCP, ICH, FDA, EMA).Strong leadership, project management, and communication skills.Fluency in English and Italian (both written and spoken).Additional Skills & CompetenciesStrong attention to detail and capability to manage multiple complex projects simultaneously.Proactive problem-solving and cross-functional collaboration.Excellent interpersonal skills for building relationships with stakeholders.Strong communication and organizational skills; proficient with modern technology.Proficiency with clinical trial management systems (CTMS) and Microsoft Office.Employment Requirements (Italy)Open to an open-ended contract (part-time or full-time) or fixed-term contract, depending on company needs.Competitive salary package, commensurate with experience.Health insurance and pension contributions.Annual paid time off and public holidays.Professional development opportunities.Flexible working arrangements (subject to company policies).BenefitsCompetitive salary package, commensurate with experience.Starting with a temporary contract of 1 year.IQVIA reserves the right to evaluate candidates based on domicile, residence, and work experience/education.Applications not meeting the requirements will not be fully considered.Please provide authorization for the processing of personal data (DL********) for GDPR (Regulation ********) transfer to IQVIA's clients.The position is open to candidates of both sexes (L.******).IQVIA is a leading global provider of clinical research services, commercial insights, and healthcare intelligence to the life sciences and healthcare industries.We accelerate the development and commercialization of innovative medical treatments to improve patient outcomes worldwide.Learn more at