Leader, Information Technology (Remote - must be in Boston or NC)

Although this is a 100% remote position, we are currently focusing our search on candidates who reside in either the Boston, MA or North Carolina area.

Cytel is seeking a strategic and execution-focused Vice President of Information Technology to lead the global IT function and enable the company’s continued growth as a leader in statistical software and clinical research services.

The VP IT will define and execute a scalable, secure, and innovative technology strategy, ensuring alignment with Cytel’s business objectives, including clinical data delivery, advanced analytics, and software platforms. This executive will serve as a key advisor to the leadership team, bridging business priorities with technology capabilities and driving digital transformation across the organization. 

1. Strategic Technology Leadership

Define and implement a global IT strategy and roadmap aligned with Cytel’s growth, product innovation, and client delivery priorities.

Partner with executive leadership to ensure technology investments drive business performance and competitive differentiation.

Evaluate emerging technologies (AI/ML, advanced analytics, cloud platforms) to support Cytel’s data science and statistical innovation agenda.

2. IT Operations & Infrastructure

Oversee the design, implementation, and support of enterprise IT systems, infrastructure, and cloud platforms ensuring scalability, performance, and reliability.

Drive modernization initiatives including cloud adoption, automation, and platform standardization.

Ensure high availability of systems supporting clinical data, software platforms, and global operations.

3. Digital Transformation & Business Enablement

Lead enterprise-wide digital initiatives to improve operational efficiency, client delivery, and data-driven decision-making.

Enable integration of clinical systems (e.g., EDC, CTMS, data platforms) and internal tools to support Cytel’s service and software offerings.

Partner with R&D and product teams to support software development environments and analytics capabilities.

4. Cybersecurity, Risk & Compliance

Establish and oversee robust cybersecurity and data protection frameworks across all systems and platforms.

Ensure compliance with GxP, 21 CFR Part 11, GDPR, and other regulatory standards relevant to clinical research and data integrity.

Lead IT risk management, business continuity, and disaster recovery planning.

5. Enterprise Applications & Data Strategy

Oversee enterprise systems including ERP, CRM, HRIS, and data platforms, ensuring integration and scalability. [

Champion data governance, data architecture, and analytics enablement, positioning data as a strategic asset.

Drive adoption of modern technologies including AI, automation, and cloud-native platforms.

6. Global Team Leadership

Build and lead a high-performing global IT organization, including infrastructure, applications, security, and support teams.

Foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement.

Develop talent strategy, succession planning, and leadership capability within IT.

7. Financial & Vendor Management

Own the global IT budget, ensuring efficient allocation of resources and strong ROI on technology investments.

Manage strategic vendor partnerships, outsourcing models, and software providers.

Lead contract negotiations and ensure delivery against SLAs.

Although this is a 100% remote position, we are currently focusing our search on candidates who reside in either the Boston, MA or North Carolina area.

(Required)

15+ years of progressive IT leadership experience, including senior leadership roles in life sciences, CRO, or healthcare technology.

Proven track record of defining and executing enterprise IT strategy in a global, regulated environment.

Deep expertise in:

Cloud computing (AWS, Azure)

Cybersecurity and risk management

Enterprise systems (ERP, CRM, data platforms)

IT governance and compliance frameworks

Experience supporting clinical research, data science, or software product environments.

Strong financial acumen with experience managing large IT budgets and vendor ecosystems.

(Preferred)

Prior experience in a CRO, biotech, or clinical data/analytics organization (e.g., IQVIA, Parexel, Certara).

Knowledge of clinical systems (EDC, CTMS, eTMF) and regulatory frameworks (GCP, GxP).

Advanced degree (MBA, MS in IT, Computer Science, or related discipline).