Executive Director, Performance Excellence & Business Transformation at Vertex Pharmaceuticals in Boston, MA

Job description

Job Description Role Summary The Executive Director of Performance Excellence & Business Transformation for Global Clinical Operations is a senior strategic leader responsible for driving operational excellence, innovation, and transformation across Vertex’s global clinical trial portfolio with a strong focus on technology innovation. This role leads end‑to‑end clinical trials process optimization, oversees global transformation programs, advances digital capabilities (i.e., Clinical Technology Innovations and transformative AI/ML strategies); leads Business Intelligence and Analytics, develops and implements the strategy for workforce planning and resource utilization and embeds a high‑performance culture that accelerates study delivery while ensuring regulatory compliance and patient safety. This role reports to the Head of Global Clinical Operations and is a member of the Leadership team. Key Responsibilities Lead the creation and execution of a multi‑year transformation roadmap to modernize Global Clinical Operations and elevate operational effectiveness. Identify enterprise‑level opportunities to streamline clinical trial planning, site startup, enrollment, data collection, data cleaning, and closeout. Drive harmonization and standardization of GCO processes across regions, therapeutic areas, and CRO partners. Develop and oversee governance frameworks for clinical transformation initiatives, including prioritization, KPIs, and benefits realization. Collaborate with DTE to accelerate adoption of modern clinical technologies Embed advanced analytics and predictive modeling to identify enrollment risks, monitor site performance, and optimize operational decision‑making. Oversee study and operational metrics, lead dashboard development Lead GCO Resource Strategy and allocation Drive the identification, implementation, and development of novel site and patient‑facing technologies, including support for end‑to‑end technology deployment and GMDA robotic process automation Collaborate with external CROs, vendors, and strategic partners to ensure operational performance, consistency, and efficiency across outsourced studies. Build and lead a high-performing Transformation/Operational Excellence team within GCO. Oversee change management strategies to ensure global adoption, behavior change, and sustained results. Education and Experience: Bachelor’s degree required (Life Sciences, Engineering, Operations, or related field). Advanced degree (MS, MPH, PharmD, MBA, PhD) preferred. 15+ years of increasing leadership responsibility in Global Clinical Operations, R&D Operations, Clinical Development, or related functions within pharma, biotech, or CRO. Proven success driving enterprise transformation and performance excellence initiatives within highly regulated environments. Strong track record improving clinical trial cycle times, quality, and operational predictability. Experience implementing digital, data, or technology solutions for clinical operations. Skills & Competencies Deep understanding of end‑to‑end clinical development processes, regulatory pathways, and operational challenges. Strong strategic thinking, portfolio management, and business acumen. Exceptional leadership, influence, and stakeholder engagement across global, matrixed environments. Data-driven mindset with proficiency in analytics and clinical operations performance management tools. Excellent communication skills with the ability to simplify complex concepts for senior executives. High degree of resilience, adaptability, and operational rigor. 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: $255,400 - $383,