Budget and Contracts Associate

About the role

The Budgets and Contracts Associate is responsible for the tracking, processing, negotiating and ensuring completion through to execution of research site budgets and contracts. This position interprets the protocol from a financial perspective, works with the Budgets and Contracts Manager to liaise with pharmaceutical partner clients and the clinical project teams to finalize overall budget ranges, as well as works with Summit Clinical Research Network sites and pharmaceutical partner legal teams to negotiate and finalize all research site agreements.

Responsibilities

• Support the implementation of strategic plans to drive growth, including identifying new business opportunities and expanding existing partnerships within the Metabolic therapeutic area, by working closely with the therapeutic leads
• Build and manage a robust pipeline of clients and trial opportunities
• Build and maintain relationships with key decision makers and clients, including pharmaceutical companies, biotechnology firms, and Contract Research Organizations (CROs); provide support and guidance to meet client needs
• Represent the company at corporate meetings, exhibitions, industry conferences, trade shows and networking events to promote services and establish new connections
• Conduct thorough market research to identify trends, opportunities, and potential clients within the clinical research sector
• Collaborate with internal teams to ensure successful delivery of projects and services to clients
• Deliver on annual business development and revenue targets through strategic planning and execution

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Life Sciences, Business Administration, Healthcare Management, or a related field
• Advanced degree (e.g., MBA, MPH) or certifications in clinical research or business development are preferred
• 5–7+ years of experience in business development, sales, or client management, with a strong background in clinical research, pharmaceuticals, or healthcare; education may substitute for experience
• Proven track record of successfully closing complex deals and achieving revenue targets
• Experience working with large clients and managing high-value contracts is essential

Knowledge, Skills, and Other Abilities

• Deep understanding of clinical trial processes, industry regulations, and market dynamics
• Exceptional negotiation, communication, and presentation skills
• Proficiency in CRM tools, sales tracking software, and market analysis platforms
• Strong analytical and strategic planning abilities
• Leadership and team collaboration skills
• Results-oriented with a focus on achieving measurable outcomes
• Highly motivated, with a strong entrepreneurial mindset
• Adaptable to evolving market demands and regulatory landscapes
• Professional, confident, and customer-focused demeanor

Competencies

• Excellent written and oral communication skills
• Organizational skills
• Attention to detail
• Positive, friendly, and professional demeanor
• Flexibility with changing priorities
• Diplomatic and professional communication style
• Strong interpersonal skills
• Strong mathematical knowledge
• Excellent computer skills, including Microsoft Office, internet browsers, and web-based enterprise solutions software

Work Environment and Physical Demands

The work environment and physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Work may be performed in an office environment. Occasional domestic and/or international travel may be required (20%).