Senior Operational Bidding Specialist

Work Schedule Standard (Mon-Fri) Environmental Conditions Office Job Description The Senior Operational Bidding Specialist plays a critical role in the preparation and delivery of competitive, high-quality operational bids and proposals for clinical research opportunities. You will lead the development of complex operational budgets and proposal content, partnering with cross-functional teams to ensure solutions are strategically aligned with client requirements, operational capabilities, and business objectives. This position requires a strong understanding of clinical trial operations, proposal development, and budgeting, along with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, client-focused environment.

Lead the development of operational bids and proposals for complex clinical trial opportunities from RFP receipt through final submission. Evaluate Requests for Proposal (RFPs) and participate in bid strategy discussions to determine the most effective and competitive operational approach. Review client requirements, identify discrepancies or missing information, and escalate issues as appropriate. Collaborate closely with Business Development, Contracts, Proposals, Operations, and functional subject matter experts to develop operational strategies that meet client needs while supporting business goals. Consult with internal stakeholders to determine labor requirements, develop solutions for non-standard activities, validate operational assumptions, and ensure compliance with client-specific bidding standards. Customize proposal language to accurately reflect study requirements, assumptions, and operational strategy while ensuring alignment with budgets. Review client pricing grids to verify mapping accuracy, unit definitions, and consistency across proposal documentation. Present and defend operational budgets and assumptions during internal bid review meetings with senior leadership. Support Business Development during client presentations and bid defense meetings. Perform quality control reviews of proposals and oversee the finalization of operational bid documentation. Build effective working relationships with clients and internal stakeholders to clarify requirements and service expectations. Mentor and train new team members, providing guidance on proposal development processes, budgeting methodologies, and best practices. Identify opportunities to improve bidding processes, tools, and operational efficiencies.

Education Bachelor's degree or an equivalent combination of education, training, and relevant experience.

Minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in clinical trial operational bidding, proposal development, budgeting, clinical operations, or a related CRO/pharmaceutical environment. Demonstrated experience leading complex operational bids and developing strategic proposal solutions. Experience collaborating across global, cross-functional teams is preferred. Knowledge, Skills & Competencies Advanced knowledge of clinical trial proposal development and operational bidding processes. Strong understanding of clinical trial budgeting methodologies, unitized pricing grids, unit costs, and cost drivers. Knowledge of the drug development process, FDA regulations, and Good Clinical Practice (GCP). Strong financial and analytical skills with experience developing and reviewing complex budgets. Excellent written and verbal communication skills with exceptional attention to detail. Strong organizational and project management skills with the ability to prioritize multiple competing deadlines. Demonstrated ability to make informed operational and budgeting decisions using sound judgment and experience. Strong problem-solving and critical-thinking abilities. Ability to work effectively under pressure and adapt to changing priorities. Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to collaborate across all levels of the organization. Proficiency with Microsoft