External Operations Manager - Distribution

Description:

Role Overview:

The External Operations Manager (EOM) is responsible for the endto-end operational execution of clinical distribution, with a strong focus on managing external partners within the clinical trial supply chain. The role oversees all outsourced distribution activities, acts as the primary interface with external vendors, and ensures operational excellence across the external manufacturing and distribution network. The EOM leads assigned projects, manages global distribution activities, and collaborates closely with crossfunctional teams to deliver high productivity, quality, and cost efficiency.

Key Responsibilities:

Financial & Commercial Management:

- Manage all financerelated activities, including RFPs for vendor selection, grants, purchase orders, invoice approvals, and tracking of financial metrics.

- Lead commercial negotiations and ensure alignment with budgetary and operational goals.

Distribution Strategy & Risk Management:

- Assess risks associated with distribution strategies and provide guidance to internal stakeholders to optimize supply chain setup.

- Advise study teams on capacity planning, budget utilization, and distribution best practices.

- Drive optimization of supply chain planning for development programs.

Operational Coordination:

- Align with study team members to coordinate distribution orders and proactively resolve operational queries.

- Serve as the key business partner for all vendorrelated operational interactions.

- Review vendor capacity, resource planning, and distribution trackers to ensure readiness and performance.

Vendor & Network Management:

- Oversee the setup, management, and continuous improvement of the external distribution network.

- Identify and escalate potential bottlenecks arising from demand surges, seasonal constraints, or regional challenges.

- Ensure external partners adhere to trade compliance and internal quality standards.

Quality, Compliance & Audits:

- Manage deviations occurring at external vendors and escalate critical issues to relevant stakeholders.

- Support external inspections and audits to assess vendor capabilities and compliance.

- Ensure adherence to applicable regulations and industry standards (e.g., GMP, HSE).

Performance Monitoring & Process Improvement:

- Monitor vendor performance using predefined KPIs and collaborate on process improvements.

- Drive innovation in process simplification, cost reduction, and productivity enhancement.

- Prepare and analyze reports related to distribution operations and financial performance.