Proposals and Contracts Specialist

This position is listed on behalf of a partner company, which manages all applications and next steps. Our partner is looking for a Proposals and Contracts Specialist based in South Africa.

As a Proposals and Contracts Specialist, you will play a key role in supporting the development and delivery of clinical research projects by managing proposal and contract activities from initial client requests through final signature. You will oversee the Request for Proposal (RFP) process, prepare strategic proposals and budgets, and negotiate contractual terms to ensure successful project initiation. Working closely with cross-functional teams, subject matter experts, finance professionals, and external clients, you will help deliver accurate, competitive, and high-quality business proposals. This role combines analytical expertise, commercial awareness, and stakeholder management in a fast-paced, international environment. You will have the opportunity to contribute to the advancement of clinical research while developing your expertise in proposal management, contract negotiation, and financial planning.

Accountabilities:

Manage the complete Request for Proposal (RFP) process, from initial receipt and review through proposal preparation and final submission.
Review RFP documentation, clinical study protocols, and study summaries to identify project requirements, potential challenges, and delivery risks.
Coordinate with relevant Subject Matter Experts (SMEs), assigning responsibilities and ensuring timely input from all stakeholders.
Prepare, develop, and update strategic proposals and budgets in response to client requests, revisions, and project requirements.
Draft, negotiate, and finalize contracts in accordance with internal procedures, departmental guidelines, and established standard operating procedures.
Develop contract strategies and detailed contract plans to support successful negotiations and timely client signatures.
Lead and facilitate client meetings to negotiate pricing, contractual terms, and project conditions, independently or with appropriate internal support.
Collaborate with project teams, finance departments, and functional stakeholders to develop and amend project and client budgets.
Ensure all proposals, budgets, and contract documents accurately reflect client specifications, RFP requirements, communications, and internal assumptions.
Obtain third-party quotations when required and prepare or map client bid grids to support pricing and proposal development.
Deliver high-quality client documentation within strict deadlines, including clearly formatted cost breakdowns and explanations of pricing changes.
Identify contractual matters requiring input from finance, tax, legal, or other internal specialists and escalate complex issues appropriately.
Maintain accurate documentation, project records, and system information, ensuring data quality for reporting, metrics, and KPI tracking through platforms such as Salesforce.
Build strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders, participate in relevant meetings, and coordinate effective project handovers to ensure business continuity.
Requirements:
Bachelor's degree in Life Sciences, Business, Languages, or a related discipline, or an equivalent combination of education and professional experience.
At least three years of relevant experience in project support, finance, contract management, or proposal development, preferably within a Contract Research Organization (CRO) or a similar environment.
Good understanding of clinical study operations and the processes involved in conducting clinical research across different geographical regions.
Working knowledge of proposal and contract management principles, contractual terms, pricing structures, and budgeting methodologies.
Experience using pricing tools, data management platforms, and business systems such as Salesforce.
Strong proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, particularly Word, Excel, and Outlook, as well as experience working with databases.
Excellent written and spoken English communication skills.
Outstanding analytical, organizational, and problem-solving abilities, with exceptional attention to detail and a commitment to delivering high-quality work.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the confidence to interact with stakeholders at all organizational levels and lead internal and external client meetings.
Ability to manage multiple priorities, handle competing deadlines, and work independently while maintaining accuracy and efficiency.
Sound judgment and decision-making skills, including the ability to identify potential risks, resolve issues, and escalate complex situations when necessary.
A collaborative mindset and the ability to work effectively within a cross-functional, matrix-based international environment.
Positive attitude, adaptability, initiative, and a strong sense of urgency when managing time-sensitive deliverables.
Ability to work remotely and flexibility to accommodate occasional irregular or extended working hours to meet client proposal deadlines.
Benefits:
Fully remote working arrangement based in South Africa.
Full-time employment opportunity within an international clinical research environment.
Opportunity to contribute to clinical research projects that support the development of new treatments and therapies.
Exposure to international clients, cross-functional teams, and diverse clinical research projects.
Opportunities to strengthen expertise in proposal development, contract negotiation, budgeting, and commercial strategy.
Continuous professional development and opportunities to expand skills across clinical research and business operations.
Collaborative and inclusive working environment that encourages teamwork, innovation, and knowledge sharing.
Opportunity for long-term career growth within the clinical research and life sciences industry.