Chief Data Officer

Fortrea•Durham, CA

61d•Remote

About The Position

Shape the Future of Data at Fortrea Are you a visionary leader in data architecture and integration? Fortrea is seeking a Chief Data Officer, to drive the strategy and execution of services that will deliver the future state for Fortrea’s global data platforms. The role will require the definition and delivery of strategic data and integration tools and capabilities that will integrate across the Fortrea and customer platforms to grow key business capabilities. The role requires the definition of the approach and roadmap that will drive and support the future of Fortrea’s future in clinical research and business processes. In this role you will be accountable for: Lead strategy and execution for Fortrea’s global data models, integrating cutting-edge tools across enterprise and customer systems. Define and implement data standards and governance frameworks to ensure integrity, security, and interoperability of clinical and enterprise data. Architect and execute data migration strategies from legacy systems to modern platforms (e.g., Azure SQL, Synapse, Lakehouse). Lead system integrations using Microsoft technologies including Azure Logic Apps, Service Bus, Power Automate, and API Management. Ensure seamless data flow across platforms such as Workday, Snowflake, Informatica, and internal applications. Drive business intelligence through advanced analytics, dashboards, and data storytelling. Deliver a technical roadmap that enhances data capabilities across clinical, commercial, and corporate operations. Collaborate with senior leaders and cross-functional teams to achieve ambitious data objectives. Inspire and guide a high-performing team, fostering innovation and continuous improvement. Direct integration and middleware platforms, including API strategy and engineering. Maintain external visibility through publications and conference presentations. Serve as a senior ambassador for Fortrea, building trusted relationships with clients to ensure seamless delivery, drive innovation, and identify growth opportunities. Champion enterprise-wide AI/ML innovation by architecting scalable data ecosystems that enable predictive analytics, intelligent automation, and real-time decisioning. Lead development of ethical and explainable AI frameworks, ensuring responsible data governance and accelerating deployment of strategic machine learning models.

Requirements

15+ years of experience in roles with direct interaction and high influence with executive leadership, both internal and external as well as proven success developing and producing successful business, technology, and project outcomes.
Proven expertise in data lifecycle management, integration technologies (API Gateway, ESB, Message Broker), and data management frameworks (DAMA-DMBOK).
Experience in clinical trials or related industries, with a strong grasp of data security and privacy (HIPAA).
Strategic thinker with hands-on leadership, a bias for action, and a passion for driving change.
Seasoned Executive leader with a proven track record of developing talent and leading high performance global teams.
Bachelor’s degree in data analytics, information systems, or related field (Master’s/MBA preferred).
Extensive knowledge and expertise driving technology solution development and delivery aligned to business goals in the clinical trial or related industry.
Proven experience in leading large-scale data initiatives and managing cross-functional teams.
Outside of the box thinker with a strong understanding of the services and product development lifecycles.
Highly entrepreneurial with a “can-do” attitude, always finding a way to deliver on business priorities.
Prior success in supporting large enterprise businesses that deliver services, products, and outcomes worldwide.
Bachelor’s or Master’s in Computer Science, Engineering, or related field.
CRO/Pharma Industry experience required
Experienced in data architecture, integration, or analytics roles.

Nice To Haves

Certifications in Azure (e.g., Azure Solutions Architect, Azure Data Engineer) or Microsoft Power Platform.

Responsibilities

Lead strategy and execution for Fortrea’s global data models, integrating cutting-edge tools across enterprise and customer systems.
Define and implement data standards and governance frameworks to ensure integrity, security, and interoperability of clinical and enterprise data.
Architect and execute data migration strategies from legacy systems to modern platforms (e.g., Azure SQL, Synapse, Lakehouse).
Lead system integrations using Microsoft technologies including Azure Logic Apps, Service Bus, Power Automate, and API Management.
Ensure seamless data flow across platforms such as Workday, Snowflake, Informatica, and internal applications.
Drive business intelligence through advanced analytics, dashboards, and data storytelling.
Deliver a technical roadmap that enhances data capabilities across clinical, commercial, and corporate operations.
Collaborate with senior leaders and cross-functional teams to achieve ambitious data objectives.
Inspire and guide a high-performing team, fostering innovation and continuous improvement.
Direct integration and middleware platforms, including API strategy and engineering.
Maintain external visibility through publications and conference presentations.
Serve as a senior ambassador for Fortrea, building trusted relationships with clients to ensure seamless delivery, drive innovation, and identify growth opportunities.
Champion enterprise-wide AI/ML innovation by architecting scalable data ecosystems that enable predictive analytics, intelligent automation, and real-time decisioning.
Lead development of ethical and explainable AI frameworks, ensuring responsible data governance and accelerating deployment of strategic machine learning models.