Role Summary
The Associate Director, Trial Master File (TMF) Lead is responsible for developing and driving the global TMF strategy, establishing and maintaining robust governance frameworks, and ensuring end-to-end oversight of the Trial Master File across the clinical portfolio.
Primary Responsibilities Include
- TMF Strategy & Leadership: define and own TMF strategy; lead scalable TMF operating models; serve as internal SME on TMF best practices/regulations/inspection trends; represent TMF leadership in cross-functional forums.
- Governance & Process Ownership: establish/maintain TMF governance (policies, SOPs, work instructions, quality standards); oversee TMF lifecycle (planning/setup through closeout/archival); define TMF roles/responsibilities and RACI across teams/vendors; monitor adherence and drive CAPAs; ensure timely TMF document collection/review/management.
- TMF Oversight & Compliance: provide strategic oversight (quality reviews, completeness assessments, KPIs); ensure TMFs are inspection ready; lead TMF preparation for audits/inspections/regulatory submissions; analyze TMF metrics/trends to identify risks/gaps.
- Vendor & Technology Management: oversee TMF service providers/CROs/technology platforms; optimize eTMF system workflows/integrations with IT/business; ensure vendor contractual/performance/quality adherence; stay current on TMF-related industry/regulatory trends.
- Cross Functional Partnership & Support: guide TMF planning/milestones/document management; train/coach partners on TMF processes and regulatory requirements; advise leadership on TMF health/readiness.
Education and Skills Requirements
- Bachelorβs degree in life sciences or related field; advanced degree preferred.
- 8+ years in clinical operations/document management or related GxP environment with significant TMF expertise.
- Strong knowledge of ICHGCP, TMF Reference Model, and global regulatory expectations.
- Proven experience developing TMF strategy/governance/enterprise processes.
- Ability to lead cross-functionally without authority; demonstrated portfolio-level TMF leadership.
- eTMF system and CRO/vendor oversight experience.
- Excellent communication, influencing, and stakeholder management.