Advice Needed: What Salary Range Should I Ask for a Clinical Operations Manager Role at Parexel?

Clinical Operations Manager Finance / Clinical Operations Manager Regulatory.
Department: FSP Clinical Operations - MERCK

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Hi everyone,

I’m seeking advice from those familiar with clinical operations, CROs, or similar industries. I recently applied for a Global Clinical Operations Leader/Clinical Trial Manager role at Parexel, where I set my salary expectation between $130,000 and $150,000 CAD. Unfortunately, I didn’t qualify due to a lack of CRO experience.

Now, HR has approached me for a different position: Clinical Operations Manager - Regulatory/Finance, which involves managing budgets, regulatory submissions, and compliance. While I have over 8 years of experience in academic clinical research, including managing multi-center trials, leading regulatory readiness for controlled substances, and collaborating with diverse stakeholders, I don’t have direct CRO experience.

Here are some key details:

  • Location: Quebec, Canada - Possibly remote, I'm not positive yet
  • Experience: 8+ years in clinical research (academic setting), regulatory management, and financial oversight
  • Market Benchmarks: I've seen reported ranges for Clinical Operations Managers in Quebec at ~$140K-$170K, with some positions exceeding $190K depending on the scope.

I want to ensure I position myself fairly and competitively. Should I stick to my previous range of $130K-$150K, or is it reasonable to ask for more given the responsibilities and market data? Potentially changing the range from 150K-170K. Any insights or advice would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks in advance for your input!

EDIT: Thank you everyone for your invaluable input and most importantly for broadening my perspective. The position maxes out at 117K.