ICON is a global healthcare intelligence and clinical research organisation united by a mission to bring new medicines and treatments to patients faster.

As a values-driven organisation, integrity, collaboration, agility, and inclusion are at the heart of how we work and interact with each other, customers, patients and suppliers.

At ICON, study start-up is not a checklist — it’s the moment where strategy becomes access. As a Site Activation Lead, you ensure clinical trials move from plan to reality without unnecessary delays, protecting timelines, budgets, and most importantly — patient access to new therapies.

This role is about ownership, impact, and performance.

What You’ll Be Responsible For — and Why It Matters

• Design and lead Study Start-Up Plans- So that every country and site moves forward with clarity, alignment, and realistic timelines.

• Drive regulatory and ethics submissions to approval - So studies reach activation faster and without avoidable rework or compliance risk.

• Oversee site contracts and budget negotiations - So financial and legal barriers don’t delay first patient in.

• Identify risks early and implement mitigation strategies - So roadblocks are prevented — not reacted to.

• Partner with sponsors at Bid Defences and Kick-Off Meetings - So start-up strategy is strong from day one and aligned with expectations.

• Lead and empower regional start-up teams - So performance is consistent, accountable, and milestone-driven across countries.

• Ensure data accuracy, reporting, and KPI tracking - So sponsors have transparency and projects stay on course.

Every action you take directly influences time-to-activation — and ultimately, time-to-treatment for patients.

What You Bring

• 5+ years in Clinical Research with strong Study Start-Up experience

• Deep understanding of regulatory frameworks and submission processes

• Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams globally

• Strong project management and risk mitigation skills

• Confidence in sponsor-facing environments

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Employment with ICON is contingent upon having the legal right to work in the country where the role is based.

Rewards & Benefits

ICON offers a competitive and comprehensive total rewards package designed to support your health, wellbeing, and career development.

Benefits may include:

• Competitive base salary and performance related incentives
• Health and wellbeing programmes including medical, dental, and vision coverage where applicable
• Retirement and pension plans
• Life assurance and disability coverage
• Employee assistance programmes and wellbeing resources
• Learning and development opportunities through structured training and career pathways

Benefits may vary depending on role and location.

Visit our careers site to read more about the benefits ICON offers.

Inclusion and Accessibility

ICON is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to building an inclusive and accessible workplace where everyone feels valued and supported.

If you require reasonable accommodations during the recruitment process, please let us know or submit a request here.

Are you a current ICON Employee? Please click here to apply