Executive Director Research Compliance

By joining our team, you’ll be part of our life-changing Mission and Vision. You’ll work in a truly inclusive environment where diversity and equity are championed through words and actions. You’ll contribute to an innovative culture that is second to none, one that embraces curiosity, discovery and compassion. You’ll play a role in something that’s never been done before as we integrate science and clinical care to help patients achieve better, faster outcomes — as we Advance Human Ability, together. Job Description Summary The Executive Director, Research Compliance, serves as the institutional leader for ensuring the highest standards of integrity, compliance, and ethics at SRAlab, particularly in the research area. In collaboration with the Corporate Integrity Officer, this role is responsible for the strategic direction, oversight, and implementation of SRAlab’s research compliance program, ensuring adherence to federal and state regulations, accreditation standards, institutional policies, and sponsor requirements that govern biomedical, clinical, and rehabilitation research. The Executive Director will collaborate with research leadership, investigators, staff, and external partners to foster a culture of compliance and accountability, while enabling innovation and scientific advancement. This leader will be a trusted advisor to executive leadership, guiding the institution through regulatory complexity with integrity and sound judgment. The Executive Director, Research Compliance will consistently demonstrate support of the SRAlab Vision, Mission and Core Values by striving for excellence, contributing to team efforts and showing respect and compassion for patients and their families, fellow employees, and all others with whom there is contact at or in the interest of the institute. The Executive Director, Research Compliance will demonstrate SRAlab Core Attributes: Communication, Accountability, Flexibility/Adaptability, Judgment/Problem Solving, Customer Service and SRALab. Job Description The Executive Director, Research Compliance will: Strategic Leadership & Oversight Develop, implement, and oversee SRAlab’s research compliance strategy, aligning with institutional goals and federal/state regulatory requirements. Serve as the subject matter expert on research compliance issues, providing guidance to investigators, faculty, staff, and executive leadership. Lead risk assessment and monitoring activities across the research enterprise, proactively identifying and mitigating compliance risks. Regulatory & Policy Compliance Ensure adherence to regulations and guidance from agencies including but not limited to: HHS, OHRP, FDA, NIH, CMS, and other applicable federal and state authorities. Oversee compliance with HIPAA as it applies to research, human subject protections, informed consent, financial conflict of interest, research billing compliance, export controls, and research misconduct. Manage and coordinate institutional responses to audits, inquiries, and investigations from sponsors, regulators, and accrediting bodies. Program Management & Training Direct and perform compliance monitoring, auditing, and reporting processes for SRAlab’s research programs. Develop and deliver ongoing education and training programs for investigators, research coordinators, and staff on regulatory requirements and institutional policies. Establish policies and procedures to support consistent, transparent, and compliant research practices. Collaboration & Institutional Engagement Provides leadership for and collaboration with AbilityLab Compliance Manager with regard to research compliance matters, including but not limited to IRB applications, compliance audits, training and education. Partner with Institutional Review Boards (IRB) and other research oversight committees to ensure integrated compliance. Collaborate with executive leadership, principal investigators and administrative leaders to support responsible conduct of research and safeguard SRAlab’s reputation as a premier research institution. Foster a culture of compliance, accountability, and ethical responsibility across all research programs. Leadership & Management Supervise and mentor compliance staff supporting research compliance functions. Provide regular reports and risk analyses to the Chief Scientific Officer, President and Chief Administrative Officer and senior leadership. Lead by example, promoting values of integrity, transparency, and excellence. Additional Responsibilities Perform all other duties that may be assigned in the best interest of SRAlab. Reporting Relationships Reports to the President and Chief Administrative Officer. Knowledge, Skills & Abilities Required Education & Certification Bachelor’s degree in Health Information Management, Life Sciences, Public Health, Legal Studies, or related field required. Juris Doctor (JD), Master’s Degree, or advanced degree in Research Administration, Health Care, or Corporate Compliance strongly preferred. Certification in Healthcare Research Compliance (CHRC), Healthcare Compliance (CHC), or equivalent professional certification highly desirable. Experience Minimum of 10 years of progressive leadership experience in research compliance, preferably within an academic medical center, hospital, or research-intensive healthcare organization. Deep knowledge of research regulations (FDA, OHRP, NIH, CMS, HIPAA Privacy & Security Rules) and practical application in clinical research settings. Proven experience in developing, implementing, and overseeing compliance programs at an enterprise level. Demonstrated experience leading audits, investigations, and regulatory reviews. Strong track record of collaboration with faculty, investigators, and administrative leaders in a complex research environment. Skills & Competencies Exceptional strategic thinking, analytical, and problem-solving skills. Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to influence and engage diverse stakeholders. High attention to detail, with strong organizational and project management skills. Ability to manage sensitive and confidential information with discretion. Demonstrated commitment to integrity, accountability, and ethical research practices. Working Conditions Normal office environment with little or no exposure to dust or extreme temperature. This role operates in a dynamic, fast-paced environment requiring adaptability to shifting priorities. Pay and Benefits*: Pay Range: $128,480.00 annually - $213,297.00 Benefits: Shirley Ryan AbilityLab offers a comprehensive benefits program that is competitive with our industry peers in our geographic locations:https://www.sralab.org/benefits *Benefits and benefits’ eligibility can vary by position. Actual compensation will vary based on applicant’s experience and qualifications, as well as internal equity. The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification.They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of personnel so classified.Shirley Ryan AbilityLab is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Equal Employment Opportunity ShirleyRyan AbilityLab is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.