Design Consultant I
📍 Job Overview
Job Title: Design Consultant I Company: Suvoda Location: Bucharest, Romania Job Type: Full-time Category: Revenue Operations / GTM Operations (Consulting Focus) Date Posted: August 06, 2025 Experience Level: Entry-level to Junior (0-2 years) Remote Status: On-site
🚀 Role Summary
- Design and deliver Interactive Response Technology (IRT) solutions for clinical trial randomization and drug supply management, focusing on translating complex client requirements into functional system designs.
- Serve as a primary point of contact for clients and internal teams, ensuring clear communication and accurate documentation of IRT specifications throughout the project lifecycle.
- Drive process improvements within the services department, contributing to the efficiency and effectiveness of IRT solution delivery through feedback and implementation of new features.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including project managers and customer care, to ensure seamless project execution, client satisfaction, and proactive problem resolution.
- Support the development and delivery of user training, system documentation, and new staff onboarding to maintain high standards of service and product knowledge.
📝 Enhancement Note: While the title "Design Consultant I" might suggest a broader consulting role, the detailed responsibilities clearly place this position within the domain of Sales Operations or Go-To-Market (GTM) Operations, specifically focusing on the operational aspects of delivering a specialized technology solution (IRT) in the clinical trial industry. The role requires a blend of technical understanding, client-facing communication, and internal process management, all critical for GTM success.
📈 Primary Responsibilities
- Design Interactive Response Technology (IRT) solutions by meticulously translating clinical protocols, Suvoda proposals, and client discussions into detailed system specifications.
- Act as a trusted advisor to clients, effectively consulting on their business requirements and translating these needs into actionable configurations within Suvoda's software platform.
- Develop comprehensive and accurate documentation for all IRT requirements, utilizing provided specification templates to ensure clarity and completeness.
- Lead internal team reviews of draft specifications, serving as the central point of contact for all IRT design-related inquiries during the system build phase.
- Manage client reviews of IRT specifications and supporting documentation, incorporating necessary updates and securing approvals from both client and internal stakeholders by agreed-upon deadlines.
- Oversee the User Acceptance Testing (UAT) process, including the development of UAT plans and test scripts, and coordinate all data setup required for client UAT.
- Provide ongoing support for design-related questions from both internal teams and external clients throughout the system build and deployment phases.
- Lead client UAT sessions for the IRT system, meticulously tracking and coordinating any required fixes or updates, and collaborating with project managers on timelines for system modifications.
- Support the re-design of IRT systems or the implementation of new features during the maintenance phase of client projects, ensuring continued client satisfaction and system optimization.
- Proactively identify and contribute to the implementation of process improvements within the services department to enhance operational efficiency and delivery quality.
- Collaborate with the product team by providing valuable feedback on client requests and project experiences to inform the design and development of new software features.
- Travel to client sites as needed to attend meetings, conduct user training sessions, and foster strong client relationships.
- Assist the customer care team by providing timely support to system users via telephone and email, addressing inquiries and resolving issues efficiently.
- Contribute to the training of new staff members on Suvoda's product suite and internal operational processes, ensuring knowledge transfer and team development.
- Conduct continuous risk assessments throughout the project lifecycle, identifying potential risks and developing/updating mitigation strategies to ensure project success.
📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities indicate a client-facing, project-driven role that requires deep engagement with product configuration and client requirements. This aligns with GTM operations roles that bridge the gap between sales/client success and the technical delivery of a solution, emphasizing precision, communication, and process adherence.
🎓 Skills & Qualifications
Education:
- Bachelor's degree or equivalent practical experience in a relevant field (e.g., Life Sciences, Computer Science, Business Administration, or a related operations-focused discipline).
Experience:
- Minimum of 1 year of experience in Interactive Response Technology (IRT) or a closely related field within the clinical trial technology or pharmaceutical services sector is preferred.
- Experience in a client-facing or consulting role, translating business needs into technical solutions, is highly advantageous.
- Demonstrated experience working within cross-functional teams on project delivery.
Required Skills:
- Client Consultation & Communication: Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to clearly articulate technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders and build strong client relationships.
- Project Documentation: Proficiency in documenting detailed requirements, specifications, and process flows accurately and comprehensively.
- Analytical & Systematic Thinking: Strong analytical and systematic thinking abilities to dissect complex problems, understand intricate protocols, and design logical IRT solutions.
- Problem Solving: Demonstrated creative problem-solving skills to address unique client challenges and system design intricacies.
- Attention to Detail: Meticulous attention to detail is critical for ensuring the accuracy of IRT specifications, test scripts, and data setup.
- Technical Translation: Ability to understand technical details of the IRT software and translate them effectively to non-technical users and clients.
- Time Management & Organization: Excellent time management and organizational skills to manage multiple project deliverables, client requests, and internal reviews simultaneously.
- Consultative Skills: Proven consultative skills, enabling the candidate to act as a trusted advisor to clients, guiding them through the IRT design process.
Preferred Skills:
- Prior experience with IRT systems (e.g., 340B, clinical supply chain management software).
- Familiarity with clinical trial processes and regulatory requirements (e.g., GCP).
- Experience with project management methodologies.
- Knowledge of data management and database principles.
- Experience in user training or technical support roles.
📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on consulting, documentation, and translating technical details for non-technical users strongly suggests a role that requires a foundational understanding of business processes and client relationship management, typical of entry-level GTM or Sales Operations support roles. The preference for IRT or clinical trial experience indicates a need for domain-specific knowledge.
📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements
Portfolio Essentials:
- Case Studies in Solution Design: Showcase examples of translating complex requirements into detailed technical specifications or system designs, highlighting the problem, solution, and outcome.
- Process Documentation Samples: Provide samples of clear, concise process documentation, workflow diagrams, or specification templates that demonstrate an understanding of structured operational procedures.
- Client Communication Examples: Include anonymized examples of client communications, proposals, or requirement gathering documentation that illustrate consultative skills and effective stakeholder management.
- Problem-Solving Scenarios: Present a portfolio piece that details a complex operational challenge encountered and the systematic approach taken to resolve it, emphasizing analytical thinking and creative solutions.
- Metrics and Impact Demonstration: If applicable, include any examples of how your work has directly contributed to process efficiency, client satisfaction, or project success metrics.
Process Documentation:
- Workflow Design & Optimization: Demonstrate experience in mapping existing workflows, identifying bottlenecks, and proposing optimized process flows for technology solution delivery.
- Implementation & Automation Methods: Showcase understanding of how processes are implemented and potentially automated within software systems, ensuring adherence to specifications and quality standards.
- Measurement & Performance Analysis: Provide examples of how process performance is measured, tracked, and analyzed to identify areas for improvement and ensure successful project outcomes.
📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level role, a formal "portfolio" might not be strictly required, but demonstrating relevant skills through project examples in a resume or during the interview is crucial. The emphasis here is on showcasing the ability to understand, document, and improve operational processes, particularly in a client-facing, technical context.
💵 Compensation & Benefits
Salary Range:
- Given the entry-level to junior experience requirement (0-2 years) for a Design Consultant I role in Bucharest, Romania, a competitive annual salary range would likely fall between €20,000 - €35,000 gross. This estimate is based on current market data for similar technical consulting or client support roles in the Romanian IT and pharmaceutical services sectors, considering the cost of living and industry standards. A more precise figure would depend on the candidate's specific qualifications and any directly relevant experience.
Benefits:
- Meal Tickets: Provided to supplement daily food expenses.
- Top Healthcare Subscription: Access to a premium healthcare provider in Romania, ensuring comprehensive medical care.
- Fitness Stipend: A dedicated allowance to support physical well-being and fitness activities.
- Competitive Salaries: Base compensation benchmarked against industry standards.
- Bonus Plans: Potential for performance-based bonuses, rewarding individual and company achievements.
- Flexible Working Hours: The company promotes an environment that allows for integration of work and personal life, suggesting flexibility in daily schedules.
Working Hours:
- Standard full-time working hours are expected, likely around 40 hours per week, with flexibility offered to accommodate work-life balance needs.
📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on industry benchmarks for junior technical roles in Bucharest. The benefits package is comprehensive and aligned with competitive offerings in the Romanian market, particularly attractive for professionals in specialized tech sectors.
🎯 Team & Company Context
🏢 Company Culture
Industry: Clinical Trial Technology / Pharmaceutical Services. Suvoda operates at the intersection of technology and healthcare, providing critical software solutions that manage the complex logistics of clinical trials, particularly in high-stakes therapeutic areas like oncology and rare diseases. This industry demands precision, adherence to regulations, and a commitment to patient well-being. Company Size: Suvoda is a growing global company. While the exact number of employees isn't specified in the input, the mention of global offices and a growing team suggests a mid-to-large-sized organization that balances the agility of a tech company with the structure of an established service provider. This size typically means opportunities for impact and visibility, alongside structured career paths. Founded: Founded in 2013, Suvoda has established itself as a key player in the clinical trial technology space, focusing on innovation and client-centric solutions. This relatively young company history suggests a dynamic, forward-thinking culture driven by technological advancement and market responsiveness.
Team Structure:
- Cross-functional Project Teams: The Design Consultant I will be part of project teams that include various specialists responsible for delivering IRT solutions. This implies close collaboration with project managers, developers, quality assurance personnel, and potentially client success managers.
- Reporting Structure: While not explicitly stated, a "Consultant I" typically reports to a more senior consultant, a team lead, or a manager within the services or operations department. The structure is likely designed to provide mentorship and guidance for junior team members.
- Collaboration Patterns: Collaboration is expected to be both internal (within the project team and across departments like product and customer care) and external (directly with clients). The role emphasizes being a primary point of contact, indicating a high degree of interdependency.
Methodology:
- Data-Driven Design: IRT solutions are built upon precise data inputs from clinical protocols, requiring a data-driven approach to design and specification.
- Process-Oriented Delivery: The role involves adhering to defined service delivery processes, from requirement gathering and documentation to testing and client approval, with a focus on continuous process improvement.
- Client-Centric Approach: Translating client requirements and acting as a trusted advisor highlights a strong client-centric methodology, prioritizing client needs and satisfaction.
Company Website: https://www.suvoda.com/
📝 Enhancement Note: Suvoda's focus on clinical trial technology places it in a highly regulated and demanding sector. The culture likely values precision, scientific understanding, and a strong ethical framework, alongside technological innovation.
📈 Career & Growth Analysis
Operations Career Level: This role, "Design Consultant I," is positioned at the foundational level of a consulting track within Suvoda's services or operations department. It's an entry point for individuals looking to specialize in the operational and technical aspects of clinical trial technology solutions. The scope involves understanding client needs, translating them into system designs, and supporting project delivery.
Reporting Structure: The Design Consultant I will likely report to a Senior Design Consultant, a Team Lead, or a Manager within the Services or Operations division. This structure provides a clear line of mentorship and supervision, crucial for skill development in a specialized field. The role involves interacting with various internal stakeholders, including project managers and potentially development teams, fostering a collaborative work environment.
Operations Impact: The impact of this role is directly tied to the successful design and delivery of IRT solutions, which are critical for the execution of clinical trials. By accurately translating client requirements and ensuring the IRT system functions as intended, the Design Consultant I contributes to:
- Smooth Clinical Trial Operations: Enabling accurate patient randomization and timely drug supply, which are vital for trial integrity.
- Client Satisfaction and Retention: Providing expert guidance and reliable solutions builds trust and strengthens client relationships.
- Operational Efficiency: Meticulous design and clear documentation reduce errors and rework, contributing to project timelines and cost-effectiveness.
- Product Improvement: Feedback provided to the product team can influence future software development, enhancing Suvoda's offerings.
Growth Opportunities:
- Specialization Advancement: Progress to Senior Design Consultant, taking on more complex projects, larger clients, and greater design responsibility.
- Technical Expertise: Deepen knowledge in IRT systems, clinical trial logistics, and related technologies, potentially leading to specialized roles in system architecture or advanced configuration.
- Project Management Track: Transition into a Project Management role, leveraging the understanding of project lifecycles and client management gained in this position.
- Client Success Management: Move into client-facing roles focused on ongoing client relationships, account management, and strategic guidance.
- Product Development Input: Contribute more significantly to product strategy and feature development based on extensive client and project experience.
📝 Enhancement Note: The "Consultant I" title indicates a clear career ladder. For someone interested in GTM operations, this role offers a pathway into a specialized tech niche with opportunities to develop both technical and client-facing skills, which are highly transferable.
🌐 Work Environment
Office Type: Suvoda's office in Bucharest is described as newly renovated, modern, and located in the city center. This suggests a professional and comfortable workspace designed to facilitate both focused individual work and collaborative team activities. The environment is equipped with modern technology to support seamless global connectivity.
Office Location(s): Bucharest, Romania, city center. This prime location offers accessibility via public transport and proximity to amenities, making it an attractive place to work for local professionals.
Workspace Context:
- Collaborative Areas: The office includes collaborative gathering areas, encouraging team interaction, knowledge sharing, and problem-solving sessions, which are essential for cross-functional teams.
- Comfortable Work Spaces: Dedicated and comfortable work stations are available for focused individual tasks, such as detailed documentation and system design.
- Technology Integration: Modern technology ensures easy connectivity to global offices, supporting seamless communication and remote collaboration when necessary, even for an on-site role.
- Team Interaction: The environment is conducive to regular interaction with colleagues, fostering a supportive team dynamic and facilitating the exchange of insights between junior and senior team members.
Work Schedule:
- The company offers flexible working hours, which is a significant benefit for employees seeking to balance professional responsibilities with personal life. While the core working hours are likely standard (e.g., 9 AM to 5 PM or similar), employees may have some latitude in adjusting their start and end times, provided project deadlines and team collaboration needs are met.
📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a modern, well-equipped office and flexible working hours suggests a positive work environment that values employee well-being and productivity, aligning with modern tech company standards.
📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process
Interview Process:
- Initial Screening: A recruiter or hiring manager will likely conduct an initial screening call to assess basic qualifications, interest in the role, and cultural fit. Be prepared to discuss your understanding of Suvoda and the clinical trial technology industry.
- Technical/Skills Assessment: Expect interviews focused on assessing your interpersonal, communication, analytical, and problem-solving skills. This may include behavioral questions and scenario-based questions related to client consultation and requirement translation.
- Case Study/Design Exercise: A practical exercise or case study might be presented to evaluate your ability to translate a hypothetical clinical protocol or client request into IRT specifications. This is where your documentation and analytical skills will be tested.
- Team/Manager Interviews: Interviews with potential team members or the hiring manager will assess your fit within the team dynamics, your approach to collaboration, and your potential for growth.
- Final Interview: A concluding interview, possibly with a senior leader, to finalize the decision based on overall fit, potential, and alignment with company values.
Portfolio Review Tips:
- Highlight Relevant Projects: Select 2-3 projects or experiences that best demonstrate your skills in requirement gathering, documentation, problem-solving, and client interaction.
- Structure Your Case Studies: For each example, clearly outline:
- The Challenge: What was the client's need or the operational problem?
- Your Role: What specific actions did you take?
- The Solution: How did you address the challenge? (e.g., detailed specifications, process improvement proposal)
- The Result: What was the outcome? Quantify impact where possible (e.g., improved clarity, reduced errors, client satisfaction).
- Demonstrate Process Thinking: Show how you approach tasks systematically. For documentation examples, ensure they are clear, well-organized, and easy to follow.
- Focus on Transferable Skills: If direct IRT experience is limited, emphasize transferable skills from other roles (e.g., customer service, business analysis, technical writing) and explain how they apply to this role.
Challenge Preparation:
- Understand IRT Basics: Familiarize yourself with the fundamental concepts of Interactive Response Technology in clinical trials (randomization, drug supply management).
- Practice Requirement Translation: Work through hypothetical scenarios of translating a simple process or requirement into clear, actionable steps or documentation.
- Prepare for Behavioral Questions: Anticipate questions about teamwork, problem-solving, handling difficult clients, and managing your workload. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers.
- Research Suvoda: Understand their mission, values, and the types of clients they serve. This will help tailor your responses and demonstrate genuine interest.
📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is designed to gauge not just technical aptitude but also consulting ability and fit within a client-service environment. A well-prepared portfolio, even if it's just a few strong examples on a resume, will be key.
🛠 Tools & Technology Stack
Primary Tools:
- Suvoda's IRT Platform: While specific internal tool names are not provided, proficiency with Suvoda's proprietary IRT software will be developed on the job. Understanding the principles of IRT configuration is key.
- Specification & Documentation Tools: Candidates should be familiar with standard document creation software (e.g., Microsoft Word, Google Docs) and potentially diagramming tools (e.g., Visio, Lucidchart, Miro) for workflow mapping.
- Project Management Software: Exposure to or familiarity with project management tools (e.g., Jira, Asana, Monday.com) is beneficial for understanding project workflows and timelines.
Analytics & Reporting:
- Data Analysis Tools: While not a primary focus for this role, basic familiarity with spreadsheet software (e.g., Microsoft Excel, Google Sheets) for data review and analysis is expected.
- Reporting Dashboards: Understanding how data is visualized and reported in dashboards can be helpful for interpreting project status and client needs.
CRM & Automation:
- CRM Systems: Familiarity with Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems (e.g., Salesforce, HubSpot) can provide context for client interactions and data management, although direct use might not be required in this specific role.
- System Integration Concepts: A general understanding of how different software systems connect and exchange data is beneficial for comprehending the broader technological landscape of clinical trials.
📝 Enhancement Note: The core requirement is the ability to learn and master Suvoda's specific IRT platform. Familiarity with standard office productivity and documentation tools is essential, with broader exposure to project management and CRM being advantageous.
👥 Team Culture & Values
Operations Values:
- Precision and Accuracy: As a provider of critical technology for life-sustaining studies, accuracy in design, documentation, and execution is paramount. This value translates to meticulous attention to detail in all tasks.
- Client Focus: Suvoda emphasizes being a trusted advisor and shaping digital experiences for clients. This means prioritizing client needs, understanding their challenges, and delivering solutions that meet their specific requirements.
- Innovation and Growth: The company encourages continuous learning and exposure to the latest technologies, reflecting a commitment to staying at the forefront of clinical trial innovation.
- Collaboration and Teamwork: Working on cross-functional teams and interacting with various stakeholders requires a collaborative spirit, where mutual support and shared problem-solving are key.
- Integrity and Ethics: Operating within the highly regulated pharmaceutical industry necessitates a strong ethical compass and adherence to industry standards and best practices.
Collaboration Style:
- Cross-Functional Integration: The role requires seamless collaboration with internal teams (project management, development, customer care) and external clients to ensure cohesive project delivery.
- Knowledge Sharing: A culture that encourages sharing insights and best practices among team members, particularly between junior and senior consultants, aids in collective learning and problem resolution.
- Feedback Loop: Openness to providing and receiving constructive feedback is essential for process improvement and professional development within the team and across projects.
- Proactive Communication: A proactive approach to communication ensures that all stakeholders are informed, potential issues are flagged early, and solutions are developed collaboratively.
📝 Enhancement Note: Suvoda's culture appears to foster a professional, client-centric, and growth-oriented environment, with a strong emphasis on the precision required in the clinical trial sector.
⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities
Challenges:
- Translating Complex Requirements: Effectively interpreting intricate clinical protocols and diverse client needs into precise IRT system designs can be challenging, requiring strong analytical and communication skills.
- Managing Multiple Stakeholders: Balancing the expectations and requirements of various internal teams and external clients requires excellent stakeholder management and negotiation skills.
- Adherence to Strict Timelines: Clinical trials operate on tight schedules, meaning the IRT design and delivery must meet stringent deadlines, often requiring efficient time management and prioritization.
- Learning a Specialized Domain: For individuals new to the clinical trial or IRT industry, understanding the specific terminology, regulations, and operational nuances presents a learning curve.
- Continuous Process Improvement: Identifying and implementing process improvements requires proactive engagement and the ability to influence existing workflows.
Learning & Development Opportunities:
- Operations Skill Advancement: Develop expertise in IRT configuration, clinical trial logistics, and project lifecycle management through hands-on experience and mentorship.
- Industry-Specific Training: Gain in-depth knowledge of the clinical trial industry, regulatory requirements, and best practices in technology solutions.
- Consulting Skills Enhancement: Hone client-facing communication, advisory, and problem-solving skills through direct client interaction and internal training.
- Cross-Functional Exposure: Work closely with different departments, broadening understanding of the end-to-end service delivery process.
- Career Progression Pathways: Opportunities to advance into senior consulting roles, project management, client success, or even product development roles within Suvoda.
📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a solid foundation for a career in specialized GTM operations or technical consulting within the life sciences sector, with clear paths for skill development and career advancement.
💡 Interview Preparation
Strategy Questions:
- Client Requirement Analysis: Be prepared to discuss how you would approach understanding a client's complex business needs for a system like IRT. Focus on active listening, asking clarifying questions, and documenting requirements systematically.
- Process Improvement Identification: Think about how you would identify inefficiencies in a workflow. Consider examples where you've observed or suggested process improvements, emphasizing data-driven insights and clear communication of benefits.
- Technical Translation Scenarios: Practice explaining a technical concept (e.g., how a database works, the purpose of a specific software feature) in simple terms for a non-technical audience.
- Stakeholder Management: Prepare examples of how you have managed competing priorities or differing opinions among stakeholders, focusing on communication, negotiation, and finding common ground.
- Problem-Solving Approach: Be ready to walk through a challenging problem you've faced, detailing your systematic approach to diagnosis, solution development, and implementation.
Company & Culture Questions:
- Suvoda's Mission: Research Suvoda's mission and values. Be ready to articulate why you are drawn to their work in clinical trial technology.
- Team Collaboration: Discuss your preferred collaboration style and how you contribute to a positive team dynamic. Prepare examples of successful teamwork.
- Handling Ambiguity: As a "Consultant I," you may encounter situations with incomplete information. Discuss how you approach tasks when requirements are not fully defined, emphasizing proactive information gathering.
- Growth Aspirations: Clearly articulate your career goals and how this role at Suvoda aligns with them.
Portfolio Presentation Strategy:
- Concise Storytelling: When presenting portfolio examples, focus on telling a clear story: the problem, your specific actions, and the positive outcome. Keep it brief and impactful.
- Highlight Key Skills: Explicitly connect your portfolio examples to the skills mentioned in the job description (e.g., "This project demonstrates my strong attention to detail in documentation...").
- Focus on Process: Emphasize the process you followed, especially for documentation and problem-solving, to showcase your systematic approach.
- Interactive Q&A: Be prepared for questions about your portfolio pieces. Show enthusiasm for discussing your work and elaborating on your contributions.
- Professionalism: Ensure your presentation is polished, well-organized, and delivered with confidence.
📝 Enhancement Note: Preparation should focus on demonstrating a blend of analytical thinking, communication prowess, and a client-centric mindset, supported by concrete examples of your capabilities.
📌 Application Steps
To apply for this operations position:
- Submit your application through the provided link on Suvoda's careers page.
- Portfolio Tailoring: Review your resume and any supporting documents to highlight experiences that align with the core responsibilities of a Design Consultant, particularly client interaction, requirement documentation, and problem-solving. If you have project examples that showcase these skills, be prepared to discuss them.
- Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly lists your educational background and any relevant experience, using keywords from the job description such as "consultative skills," "analytical thinking," "communication skills," and "documentation." Quantify achievements where possible.
- Interview Preparation: Practice answering behavioral and situational questions using the STAR method. Prepare specific examples that demonstrate your skills in communication, problem-solving, and attention to detail. Research Suvoda thoroughly to understand their mission, values, and the clinical trial technology industry.
- Company Research: Gain an understanding of Suvoda's role in the market, their technology (IRT), and the importance of their work in clinical trials. This will enable you to ask informed questions and demonstrate genuine interest during the interview process.
⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.
Application Requirements
Candidates should have at least 1 year of experience in IRT or a related field and a bachelor's degree or equivalent experience. Strong interpersonal, communication, and analytical skills are essential, along with attention to detail and the ability to translate technical details for non-technical users.