Clinical Trial Manager | Cellcentric
Facing a busy period of recruitment, CellCentric partnered with Carrot Recruitment to help manage and accelerate the hiring process.
CellCentric is a leading biotechnology company focused on the development of innovative cancer therapies based on epigenetic mechanisms. During a period of high operational demand, the organisation identified the need to appoint an experienced Clinical Trial Manager to support the delivery of its expanding clinical programme portfolio.
Requirements of the Hire
The engagement with CellCentric originated through a referral from Compass Carter Osborne, our sister company specialising in life sciences executive search. Due to a significant volume of recruitment activity at the time, CellCentric’s internal talent acquisition team required additional support to manage this appointment efficiently, so they partnered with Carrot Recruitment to help expedite the process.
The requirement was for a Clinical Trial Manager to be based preferably at Alderley Park, or alternatively at Chesterford Research Park, Cambridge. The position required the successful candidate to attend the office a minimum of two days per week, fostering on-site collaboration, while also managing responsibilities remotely across multiple clinical sites.
CellCentric engaged Carrot Recruitment on an exclusive partnership model to manage the full recruitment process.
Our Approach
Upon completion of a detailed briefing call with the hiring manager and talent acquisition contact, Carrot Recruitment initiated a comprehensive candidate attraction campaign, leveraging our extensive network and significant digital presence within the life sciences community.
- The position was advertised across relevant professional platforms, including LinkedIn and the Carrot Recruitment website
- Within 36 hours, the campaign generated huge interest. Given the volume of interest, the campaign was paused to allow for efficient screening and candidate assessment
- Applications were reviewed against CellCentric’s defined requirements, with both inbound candidates and individuals sourced through our network considered
Following initial screening and qualification, the most suitable candidates were shortlisted and presented to CellCentric for review.
The Outcome
The process progressed rapidly, demonstrating the efficiency of the exclusive recruitment model:
- Delivered 4 strong candidate CVs to CellCentric within one week
- 3 candidates were progressed to second-stage interviews
- 2 finalists advanced to final presentations and were given a week to prepare
CellCentric provided highly positive feedback, noting the speed of delivery, quality of candidates, and clear communication throughout the process.
To support their final selection, we offered complimentary psychometric testing through our partners at Clevry, which provided valuable insight and helped them make the final hiring decision
The client commented that they “would have hired both candidates, if possible,” as it was such a close decision and both finalist showcased exceptional skills.
Results for client
- Successful appointment of a Clinical Trial Manager within 27 days of project initiation
- Enhanced employer branding and job competitiveness through salary benchmarking support
- Strengthened partnership model with CellCentric for future recruitment needs
Kerry Harris
Managing Consultant
