Clinical Program Operations Manager, Therapeutics & Innovations

Natera

102d • $136,600 - $170,800

About The Position

We are seeking a hands-on, execution-focused Clinical Program Operations Manager with deep experience in oncology and clinical trial operations to lead the day-to-day delivery and execution of our therapeutic clinical programs. This role is central to ensuring our studies move forward with precision, on schedule, within scope, and aligned with company goals. You will manage complex timelines, coordinate cross-functional efforts, and support external relationships critical to clinical delivery. This is a high-impact opportunity for someone who thrives in a fast-moving environment. You’ll bring strong oncology trial experience, a solution-first mindset, and the ability to drive clarity and progress even when priorities shift. If you need structure to act, wait for permission to lead, or hesitate in chaos, this isn’t the role for you. We’re looking for someone sharp, solution-obsessed, and relentless about execution, someone who moves fast, thrives in ambiguity, and gets things done without excuses.

Requirements

• Advanced degree (PhD, PharmD, MD, or MS) in a life science or clinical field is required.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in clinical research with a strong emphasis on program management and oncology trials.
• Proven ability to manage trial timelines and operations in a cross-functional, fast-moving environment.
• Acts fast, follows through relentlessly, and owns outcomes under pressure.
• Excellent communication, organizational, and leadership skills.

Nice To Haves

• Startup or small biotech experience strongly preferred.

Responsibilities

• Own, drive, and enforce comprehensive trial timelines, deliverables, and Gantt charts; ensure alignment across functions and hold teams accountable for execution.
• Identify risks early and fix them fast.
• Collaborate closely with internal functions (e.g., clinical operations, regulatory, quality, medical) and external CROs/vendors.
• Ensure real-time visibility of program status for leadership and cross-functional partners by developing dashboards, trackers, and milestone reports, implementing structured tracking systems, and monitoring cross-functional timelines to manage dependencies and deliverables.
• Oversee study startup activities, including site selection, feasibility, and trial initiation.
• Manage CRO relationships and performance, including KPIs, deliverables, and contracts.
• Ensure operational readiness for investigator meetings, site visits, and data reviews, in collaboration with cross-functional teams.
• Dive into the weeds when necessary and eliminate roadblocks without being asked.
• Create and maintain standardized project management templates (e.g., dashboards, trackers, reporting tools) to streamline team workflows.
• Serve as the primary operational liaison for internal and external trial communications.
• Prepare structured updates, dashboards, and risk logs for senior leadership and the steering committee.
• Travel (up to ~25%) to clinical sites, CROs, investigator meetings, and key partners to ensure operational excellence, build relationships, and represent clinical leadership on the ground.
• Foster strong relationships with investigators and site personnel to ensure engagement and performance.
• Attend data review meetings and contribute to clinical insight generation and action plans.
• Help translate scientific and clinical objectives into executable operational strategies and trial designs.

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, life and disability plans for eligible employees and their dependents.
• Free testing for employees and their immediate families.
• Fertility care benefits.
• Pregnancy and baby bonding leave.
• 401k benefits.
• Commuter benefits.
• Generous employee referral program.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree
• Number of Employees: 1,001-5,000 employees