Manager Preclinical Research Strategy and Operations

Job Description General Summary: The Manager Preclinical Research Strategy and Operations will play a critical role in driving operational excellence across the Preclinical Sciences organization. This position will partner closely with Procurement, Legal, Outsourced Contracting, Lab Operations, and Records Management to support business operations, improve processes, and enable efficient execution of departmental priorities. The ideal candidate is a highly organized and agile operations professional who thrives in a fast-paced environment, can manage multiple priorities simultaneously, and is experienced in supporting change management initiatives and driving efficiencies across cross-functional teams. Key Duties and Responsibilities: Partner with Research & Preclinical Sciences leadership to support strategic and operational initiatives across this multi-disciplinary department Serve as a key liaison with Procurement, Legal, Outsourced Contracting, Business Continuity (Risk Management), Lab Operations, and Records Management to ensure smooth coordination of operational activities Drive end-to-end operational processes related to vendor engagement, contracting workflows via our outsourced environment documentation, and departmental support Identify opportunities to improve efficiency, streamline workflows, and enhance cross-functional collaboration Support/lead change management activities associated with new processes, systems, tools, or organizational priorities Track and help manage operational deliverables, timelines, dependencies, and action items across multiple stakeholders Assist with vendor and contract-related processes in partnership with Procurement, Legal, and outsourced contracting teams Collaborate with Lab Operations to support business continuity, operational planning, and process consistency Partner with our CROs and our “Offsite Storage Management” to ensure appropriate handling, organization, and compliance of departmental documentation and records Develop and maintain operational procedures, guidance documents, trackers, dashboards, and other tools to improve visibility and accountability Facilitate meetings, prepare status updates, and communicate operational progress, risks, and recommendations to leadership Proactively identify operational gaps and implement practical solutions to improve execution and scalability Support departmental planning efforts and help align operational priorities with broader organizational goals Knowledge and Skills: Cross-functional operational coordination Process improvement and workflow optimization Change management leadership Vendor and contract process management Documentation and records management practices Meeting facilitation and stakeholder communication Project tracking and reporting Microsoft Office Suite, including Excel, PowerPoint, Power BI, and Word Experience using digital tools, dashboards, or AI-assisted technologies to improve planning, documentation, communication, and operational efficiency. Data tracking, dashboards, and operational reporting tools Standard operating procedures and business process documentation Experience in biotechnology, pharmaceutical, life sciences, or other regulated environments Familiarity with procurement and legal review workflows Knowledge of outsourced contracting processes and vendor management Experience supporting laboratory or scientific operational functions Understanding of records retention, compliance, and documentation standards Experience with continuous improvement methodologies Ability to navigate ambiguity and adapt quickly to evolving business needs Strong facilitation and stakeholder management skills Education and Experience: Bachelor’s degree in business, Life Sciences, Operations, or a related field 5+ years of experience in strategic operations, business operations, project management, or a related function Experience working cross-functionally with teams such as Research Scientists, Preclinical Project Managers, Procurement, Legal, Contracting, Lab Operations, or Records Management Proven ability to manage multiple priorities and deliver results in a fast-paced, dynamic environment Experience with Coupa, Icertis, Science Exchange Strong organizational and project coordination skills with high attention to detail Experience supporting operational process improvement and change management initiatives Excellent written and verbal communication skills At Vertex, we embrace continuous learning and encourage employees to stay informed on advances in AI, technology, automation, and industry trends. We seek talent who bring an external perspective, demonstrate curiosity and sound judgment, and thoughtfully adopt new capabilities that improve decision-making, drive innovation, increase efficiency, and help deliver better outcomes for patients. Pay Range: $124,000 - $186,000 Disclosure Statement: The range provided is based on what we believe is a reasonable estimate for the base salary pay range for this job at the time of posting. This role is eligible for an annual bonus and annual equity awards. Some roles may also be eligible for overtime pay, in accordance with federal and state requirements. Actual base salary pay will be based on a number of factors, including skills, competencies, experience, and other job-related factors permitted by law. At Vertex, our Total Rewards offerings also include inclusive market-leading benefits to meet our employees wherever they are in their career, financial, family and wellbeing journey while providing flexibility and resources to support their growth and aspirations.  From medical, dental and vision benefits to generous paid time off (including a week-long company shutdown in the Summer and the Winter), educational assistance programs including student loan repayment, a generous commuting subsidy, matching charitable donations, 401(k) and so much more. Flex Designa