Retained Executive Search Services

Transcription

1 Retained Executive Search Services REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL RFP # PCO- CSOSEARCH2014 January 6, 2015 KEY DATES Request for Proposal Released January 6, 2015 Deadline for Questions January 12, 2015 Deadline for Proposals February 2, 2015 Projected Award Date February 16, 2015

2 About PCORI PCORI was authorized by the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act of 2010 as a non-profit, nongovernmental organization and is charged with helping patients, clinicians, purchasers, and policy makers make better-informed health decisions by advancing the quality and relevance of evidence about how to prevent, diagnose, treat, monitor, and manage diseases, disorders, and other health conditions. It does this by producing and promoting high-integrity, evidence-based information that comes from research guided by patients, caregivers, and the broader healthcare community. PCORI s strong patient-centered orientation directs attention to individual and system differences that may influence research strategies and outcomes. PCORI is charged with producing useful, relevant clinical evidence through the support of new research and the analysis and synthesis of existing research. PCORI is committed to transparency and a rigorous stakeholder-driven process that emphasizes patient engagement. PCORI uses a variety of forums and public comment periods to obtain public input to enhance its work. Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute 1828 L St., NW, Suite 900 Washington, DC Phone: (202) Fax: (202) info@pcori.org Follow us on PCORI RFP # PCO-CSOSEARCH2014 ii

3 Opportunity Snapshot The Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute invites proposals from executive search firms to provide search and recruitment services to assist in recruiting for candidates to serve as the PCORI Chief Scientific Officer. Only firms with substantial experience and a proven track record of conducting successful searches for similar scientific and/or life sciences leadership positions in this field will be considered. The committee is seeking a firm that can provide a range of services to identify a pool of qualified and interested candidates, including: Executing the search process Managing the search committee Assisting with interview of candidates Conducting comprehensive background investigations and reference checks on the finalists selected. PCORI expects to have a firm begin work date of March 1, PCORI RFP # PCO-CSOSEARCH2014 iii

4 How to Proceed 1. Review the Requirements Examine all sections of the RFP and learn about what makes PCORI s research different Consider the Evaluation Criteria Consider the organization eligibility requirements and PCORI s specific requirements to see whether your organization, your interests, and your capabilities fit this program. Check the PCORI website for any modifications or amendments up to the submission deadline. 3. Develop Your Proposal Develop your response to accomplish the Scope of Work (SOW). 4. Follow Submission Guidelines See the Submission Guidelines section of this document. 5. Submit Your Proposal Proposals are due by 5 pm (ET) on February 2, Available at pcori.org/research-we-support/pcor PCORI RFP # PCO-CSOSEARCH2014 iv

5 Contents About PCORI... ii Opportunity Snapshot... iii How to Proceed... iv Background... 2 Project Requirements... 3 Scope of Work... 3 Key Deliverables... 3 Period of Performance... 5 Other Requirements... 5 Proposal Evaluation Criteria... 7 Overview... 7 Submission Guidelines... 8 Volume 1: Technical Proposal... 8 Volume II: Cost Proposal Submission Deadline Post-Submission Information Withdrawal or Modification of Proposals Late Submissions Best and Final Offers Retention of Proposals Protests Post-Award Information Anticipated Award Date Post-Award Conference/Kickoff Meeting Notice to Proceed Period of Performance Documentation Requirements PCORI RFP # PCO-CSOSEARCH2014 v

6 Basis of Compensation to the Contractor Billing and Payment Procedures Debrief Post-award Appendix A: Past Performance Chart Appendix B: Submission Checklist Appendix C: Job Description PCORI RFP # PCO-CSOSEARCH2014 vi

7 Background The Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) was created to conduct research to provide information about the best available evidence to help patients and their health care providers make more informed decisions. PCORI s research is intended to give patients a better understanding of the prevention, treatment, and care options available and the science that supports those options. PCORI is committed to transparency and a rigorous stakeholder-driven process that emphasizes patient engagement in all aspects of research. PCORI uses a variety of forums and public comment periods to obtain public input throughout its work. Our Mission: PCORI helps people make better-informed health care decisions and improves health care delivery and outcomes by producing and promoting the development of high-quality, evidence-based information that comes from research guided by patients, caregivers, and the broader health and health care community. Our History: PCORI was authorized by the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act of 2010 as an independent non-profit, non-governmental organization. PCORI s purpose, as defined by the law, is to help patients, clinicians, purchasers, and policy makers make better-informed health decisions by advancing the quality and relevance of evidence about how to prevent, diagnose, treat, monitor, and manage diseases, disorders, and other health conditions. PCORI RFP # PCO-CSOSEARCH2014 2

8 Project Requirements Scope of Work The Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute invites proposals from executive search firms to provide search and recruitment services to assist in recruiting for candidates to serve as the PCORI Chief Scientific Officer. Only firms with substantial experience and a proven track record of conducting successful searches for similar scientific and/or life sciences leadership positions in this field will be considered. The committee is seeking a firm that can provide a range of services to identify a pool of qualified and interested candidates, including: Executing the search process Managing the search committee Assisting with interview of candidates Conducting comprehensive background investigations and reference checks on the finalists selected. PCORI expects to have a firm begin work date of March 1, Key Deliverables Specific Deliverables Search Firm Kick-Off Meeting Firm Submits Candidate Profile and Search Plan to PCORI Position Announcement Posted Recruitment Activities First Review of Search Progress and Candidates Second Review of Candidates Final Review of Candidates Selection of Candidates to be Interviewed First Round of Interviews Timing Within 2 weeks after award 1 week after kick-off Within first month Ongoing 2 months after award Search Firm to Propose Search Firm to Propose Search Firm to Propose Search Firm to Propose PCORI RFP # PCO-CSOSEARCH2014 3

9 Specific Deliverables Second Round of Interviews Final Interviews Background and Reference Checks to be conducted by Search Firm Hiring Decision and Offer Letter extended New Chief Science Officer s First Day at PCORI Timing Search Firm to Propose Search Firm to Propose Search Firm to Propose To Be Determined To Be Determined PCORI RFP # PCO-CSOSEARCH2014 4

10 Period of Performance The performance period for the search firm is no more than 180 days from the kick-off meeting after an award is announced. Review of proposals will begin immediately and will continue until a selection is made. There will be two levels of review in this RFP process. The first level will involve the review and technical scoring of proposals submitted in response to this RFP by a work group established by PCORI s internal search committee. Once this process is completed, it is anticipated that a short list of executive search firms will be invited to participate in a second level of review involving the search committee members. This second phase will involve an oral presentation to the search committee and will consider the cost proposals submitted. PCORI will award a contract based on the results of the second level of review. Other Requirements Furnishing of Equipment/Property The Firm shall furnish its own office, equipment, personnel, and technology. Place of Performance The Firm is required to provide the facilities necessary to execute the SOW. The Firm shall choose its staff or acquire the necessary personnel support and provide suitable work facilities. Hours of Service The Firm shall be available Monday through Friday, between 8:30 am and 5:30 pm (ET). PCORI has regular observance of federal holidays: New Year s Day; Birthday of Martin Luther King, Jr.; Washington s Birthday; Memorial Day; Independence Day; Labor Day; Veterans Day; Thanksgiving Day; Day after Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. Insurance The Firm, at its own expense, shall provide and maintain the general liability insurance in support of this contract for the entire duration, including option years, with $1 million minimum coverage. The Firm assumes absolute responsibility and liability for any and all personal injuries or death and/or property damage or losses suffered due to negligence of the Firm's personnel in the performance of the services required under this contract. Non-Disclosure Agreement The Firm shall not release any sensitive, confidential, or proprietary information without prior written approval from PCORI. At the time of award, the awardee will be required to sign a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA), and at each subsequent option year, if exercised. PCORI RFP # PCO-CSOSEARCH2014 5

11 Organizational Conflict of Interest The Firm, upon award, shall sign a statement confirming that it does not have and will prevent any organizational conflict of interest. If a conflict arises, the Firm will immediately advise PCORI. Compliance The Firm must comply with PCORI s Rules and Regulations, all required forms, and any changes in procedures. The Firm will remain informed of any such changes and updates, as necessary, by the PCORI Procurement Office. Upon the request of employees or other persons with disabilities participating in official business, the Firm must arrange necessary and reasonable accommodations for the impaired individual(s) per Section 508 Compliance. PCORI RFP # PCO-CSOSEARCH2014 6

12 Proposal Evaluation Criteria Overview PCORI will evaluate proposals in compliance with the Scope of Work and requirements stated in this RFP. An award will be made to the Offeror who proposes the best value. PCORI will consider the evaluation factors indicated below. See Submission Guidelines (below) for a description of the categories. PCORI reserves the right to reject proposals that are unreasonably low or high in price. The price will be determined with regard to the fulfillment of the requirements listed in the Scope of Work. Category Weight of Rating Factor Technical Solution 20% Management Approach 20% Past Performance 20% Cost 40% PCORI will assign the following evaluation scores: Outstanding The Offeror has demonstrated that there is a high probability of success in a combination of past results, low risk, and professional distribution of services. Good The Offeror has demonstrated that there is a good probability of success in a combination of past results, moderate risk, and professional distribution of services. Fair The Offeror has demonstrated that there is marginal probability of success in a combination of past results, marginal risk, and professional distribution of services. Poor The Offeror has not demonstrated that there is a reasonable probability of success in this services-based effort. PCORI RFP # PCO-CSOSEARCH2014 7

13 Submission Guidelines Submissions should be organized into two separate volumes, sent as separate files. All text should be Arial or Times New Roman font, no less than 11 point with one-inch margins and single spaced. Graphics and tables may be included. We accept MS Word, MS Excel, or Adobe PDF formats. To ensure completeness, please refer to the Offeror Checklist (Appendix B). Each submission must include a cover letter with following information: Each submission must include a cover letter with following information: Offeror s name and mailing address Reference to the solicitation (RFP) number (PCO-CSOSEARCH2014) Technical and contract points of contact (name, phone number, and e mail address) Business size (large, small, state/federal certifications MBE, 8(a), HUBZone, etc.) Dunn & Bradstreet Number (DUNS) Federal Tax ID (EIN, TIN, SS) Affirmation that the quote is valid for at least 30 days A statement specifying the extent of agreement with all terms, conditions, and provisions included in the solicitation and agreement to furnish any or all items upon which prices are offered at the price set opposite each item Acknowledgement of any amendments by reference Questions must be submitted to rfp@pcori.org, referencing RFP# PCO-CSOSEARCH2014 in the subject line, no later than 5 pm (ET) on January 12, Volume 1: Technical Proposal Describe a plan to provide, prioritize, and manage the tasks included in the Scope of Work (page 2) Describe the knowledge, experience, and capabilities related to provision of the range of support needs described. 1. Technical Solution Describe your proposed approach to each requirement included in the Scope of Work. Provide a work plan outlining the key milestones and deliverables. Include a date reference for how quickly the firm will be able to launch the search. The firm shall describe its procedures to continually monitor the quality of services with the goal of providing and maintaining the highest level of customer service and satisfaction. These procedures should PCORI RFP # PCO-CSOSEARCH2014 8

14 include an internal method for monitoring, identifying, and correcting deficiencies in the quality of service furnished to PCORI. Maximum length: 1 page 2. Management Approach Describe a plan to manage the operation to ensure successful program support, including program management, financial resources or ability to obtain them, equipment and facilities, quality assurance, internal controls, and staffing. 2.1 Management Plan 3. Guarantee Explain the approach to be taken in conducting the search. The firm shall describe the manner in which it will source, identify, and prioritize its candidates and the resources that are used for recruiting. The firm should demonstrate that it has the ability to manage and control the operation to ensure successful program support, including subjects such as the program management, financial resources or ability to obtain them, equipment and facilities, quality approach, internal controls, and staffing. This section should be no more than two pages. Please provide the résumés of no more than two key personnel. Of the two, one shall be the Project Manager who will be responsible as the point of contact for PCORI. The Project Manager shall have experience in the management of performing executive search services and shall have adequate authority to make decisions for the timely resolution of problems. The Project Manager shall coordinate closely with the Chief of Staff for the Chief Operating Officer Maximum length: 2 pages Describe the Contractor s Guarantee for candidate replacement. Maximum length: ½ (half) page 4. Conflict of Interest Explain any of the firm s policies regarding conflict of interest restrictions on recruiting individuals from institutions that are present/recent clients and a listing of the restricted institutions is essential. Maximum length: ½ (half) page 5. Past Performance It is essential that the Offeror demonstrate the previous experience required to design and conduct the various activities described in the Scope of Work. Of particular interest is experience in responding to similar requests from other clients or customers. PCORI RFP # PCO-CSOSEARCH2014 9

15 The Offeror will identify three to five existing projects or projects completed within the last five years that are consistent in scope, nature, and effort for commercial customers, nonprofit clients, or local, state, or federal governments. Complete table in Appendix A. For each selected project, include client name, period (dates) of performance, point of contact name/ /phone number, and summary of work performed. PCORI is particularly interested in firms with prior experience in research, science, funding, and public sector searches. PCORI RFP # PCO-CSOSEARCH

16 Volume II: Cost Proposal Volume II: Cost Proposal should be distinct and separate from Volume I: Technical Proposal. Given that the award is expected to be a cost reimbursable contract with a cap, all costs and fees should be included. Travel arrangements for candidates coming to an in-person interview will be arranged through PCORI s onsite Travel Agency. If needed, a brief budget narrative (no more than two pages) may be included to clarify unusual budget items or calculations. The proposed budget should include the organization s regular, approved salary and fringe rates. Any and all indirect rates and fees must be fully supported with applicable documentation (e.g., copies of federally negotiated indirect cost rate agreements) and are subject to verification and audit. Submission Deadline All proposals should be sent no later than 5 pm (ET) on February 2, 2015 to rfp@pcori.org with RFP# PCO-CSOSEARCH2014 in the subject line. PCORI RFP # PCO-CSOSEARCH

17 Post-Submission Information Withdrawal or Modification of Proposals An Offeror may modify or withdraw its proposal upon written, electronic, or facsimile notice if received at the location designated in the solicitation for submission of proposals not later than the closing date and time for receipt of proposals. Late Submissions Late proposals, requests for modification, or requests for withdrawal shall not be considered, unless a late modification of a successful proposal makes terms more favorable for PCORI. Best and Final Offers Subsequent to receiving the original proposals, PCORI reserves the right to notify all technically acceptable Offerors within the competitive range and to provide them an opportunity to submit written best and final offers (BAFOs) at the designated date and time. BAFOs shall be subject to the late submissions, late modifications, and late withdrawals of proposals provision of this RFP. After receipt of a BAFO, no discussions shall be reopened unless PCORI determines that it is clearly in PCORI s best interest to do so (e.g., it is clear that information available at that time is inadequate to reasonably justify Contractor selection and award based on the BAFOs received). If discussions are reopened, PCORI shall issue an additional request for BAFOs to all technically acceptable Offerors still within the competitive range. At its discretion, PCORI reserves the right to also invite Offerors who are technically acceptable to make a presentation to PCORI on the proposed effort for technical and management approaches identified in the submission. PCORI will notify vendors who meet the qualifications and provide the date, time, and format for the presentation. Retention of Proposals All proposal documents shall be the property of PCORI, retained by PCORI, and not returned to the Offerors. Protests Any actual or prospective Contractor who is aggrieved in connection with the solicitation or award of a contract must file a protest with PCORI no later than 10 business days after the basis of protest is known or should have been known, whichever is earlier. A protest based on alleged improprieties in a solicitation that are apparent prior to proposal opening or the time set for receipt of initial proposals PCORI RFP # PCO-CSOSEARCH

18 shall be filed with PCORI prior to proposal opening or the time set for receipt of initial proposals. For procurements in which proposals are requested, alleged improprieties that do not exist in the initial solicitation, but which are subsequently incorporated into the solicitation, must be protested no later than the closing time for receipt of proposals. The protest shall be filed in writing. Protests should be submitted to or mailed to: PCORI Attn: Finance Department 1828 L Street, NW, Suite 900 Washington, DC PCORI RFP # PCO-CSOSEARCH

19 Post-Award Information Anticipated Award Date The anticipated notice of award date is February 16, Post-Award Conference/Kickoff Meeting The Contractor shall take all necessary steps to prepare for performance of the services upon notice of the award. In coordination with PCORI staff, the contractor will coordinate an Award Kick-Off Meeting within 10 business days of award notice. Date, time, and location will be provided at the time of the award. Notice to Proceed Immediately upon receipt of notice of award, the Contractor shall take all necessary steps to prepare for performance of the services required hereunder. The Contractor shall have a maximum of 30 calendar days to complete these steps. Following receipt from the Contractor of acceptable evidence that the Contractor has obtained all required licenses, permits, and insurance and is otherwise prepared to commence providing the services, PCORI shall issue a Notice to Proceed. On the date established in the Notice to Proceed (this notice will allow a minimum of seven calendar days from the date of the Notice to Proceed, unless the Contractor agrees to an earlier date), the Contractor shall start work. Period of Performance The performance period of this contract is from the start date established in the Notice to Proceed and continuing for a one-time project-based effort, lasting no more than 180 days. The initial period of performance includes any transition period authorized under the contract. Documentation Requirements The Contractor may be required to provide documentation to support its legal ability to operate facilities in the United States. Basis of Compensation to the Contractor PCORI expects to award a Cost Reimbursable contract for the SOW and budget that is proposed; negotiated with PCORI during the Best and Final Offer process; and listed in the agreement executed between the organizations. Any Contractor quality issues that result in the re-drafting of work or PCORI RFP # PCO-CSOSEARCH

20 increased labor required to meet deliverables during the performance of the contract are the financial responsibility of the Contractor, and re-work will be done at the Contractor s expense. Billing and Payment Procedures PCORI prefers electronic invoicing. Invoices shall be provided to the Finance Department on a monthly basis and all payments to Contractors will be made via ACH. Billing address: PCORI Attn: Finance Department 1828 L St., NW, Suite 900 Washington, DC finance@pcori.org Debrief Post-award Offeror shall receive a post-award debriefing provided a written request is submitted to rfp@pcori.org within three calendar days from the Notice of an Award. PCORI will provide verbal or written debriefs. PCORI RFP # PCO-CSOSEARCH

21 Appendix A: Past Performance Chart Offeror shall submit the following information as part of the proposal for the Contractor. A list of three to five contracts completed during the past five years, or currently in process, Contracts listed may include those entered into by the federal government, agencies of state and local governments, and commercial clients. Include the following information for each contract and subcontract. PCORI is particularly interested in firms with prior experience in research, science, funding, and public service searches. Name of contract Name of client or customer Contract type Contract 1 Contract 2 Contract 3 Contract 4 Contract 5 Dates of performance Total contract value Point of Contact and and telephone number Summary of work performed PCORI RFP # PCO-CSOSEARCH

22 Appendix B: Submission Checklist Cover Letter Length Cover Letter (see page 8) As needed Volume I: Technical Proposal Length Statement of Understanding (see page 8) Technical Solution (see page 8) Management Approach (see page 9) Guarantee & Conflict of Interest (see page 9) 5 pages maximum Past Performance (see page 9) Appendix A: Past Performance Table (see page 16) As Needed Appendix B: Submission Checklist (see page 17) N/A Appendix C: Job Description (see page 18) N/A Volume II: Cost Proposal Length Budget (see page 11) As needed Budget Narrative (Optional) (see page 11) 2 pages maximum PCORI RFP # PCO-CSOSEARCH

23 Appendix C: Job Description PCORI POSITION DESCRIPTION FORM TITLE: DEPARTMENT: REPORTS TO (TITLE): REPORTS TO (NAME): Chief Science Officer Science Executive Director Joe Selby I. POSITION SUMMARY The Chief Science Officer reports directly to PCORI s Executive Director and has responsibility for leading the development and implementation of a transformational research agenda focused on patientcentered comparative clinical effectiveness research. Together with the Chief Operating Officer, Chief Officer for Engagement and Dissemination and others, the Chief Science Officer serves on PCORI s executive leadership team. The Chief Science Officer has oversight responsibility for supervision and mentoring of PCORI scientific staff; for merit review of research applications submitted to PCORI; for implementing PCORI s Research Agenda and for refining the agenda over time in response to input from patients and other stakeholders; for management and synthesis of learnings from PCORI s funded research portfolio; and for ensuring coordination and collaboration with PCORI s engagement, dissemination, contracting and communications functions. The Chief Science Officer will also participate, along with other members of the executive leadership team, in studying and evaluating the impact of PCORI s research and the effectiveness of its processes for engaging patients and other stakeholders. These responsibilities are carried out in collaboration with PCORI s 21-member, multi-stakeholder Board of Governors and its 17-member Methodology Committee. II. DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES Guides PCORI s scientific staff in developing, refining and implementing PCORI s National Priorities for Research and Research Agenda; and for merit review, selection and management of PCORI s portfolio of funded projects under the broad oversight of the Board of Governors and its Scientific Oversight Committee (SOC). Anticipates changes over time in needs for clinical comparative effectiveness research evidence and approaches to collecting it, and in collaboration with the SOC, works to refine PCORI s research agenda and portfolio accordingly. Works closely with the Methodology Committee to support the committee s work and to ensure that their guidance is obtained in implementing and managing PCORI s Research Agenda. Brings a broad, patient-centered clinical and/or public health perspective to developing and implementing PCORI s Research Agenda and to funding PCORI research. Supervises and supports Scientific Program Leaders in each of 6 program areas (Clinical PCORI RFP # PCO-CSOSEARCH

24 Effectiveness, Improving Health Systems, Addressing Disparities, Communication and Dissemination Research, Infrastructure and Research Methods, and Research Integration and Evaluation) in development of broad as well as more targeted PCORI Funding Announcements; in the merit review of applications submitted in response to these announcements, and in ongoing management of the funded research portfolio. Oversees the scientific development of PCORI s research infrastructure, PCORnet, and its integration into PCORI s science community and research portfolio. Coordinates closely with PCORI s Engagement, Dissemination, Contracting and Communications leadership to ensure full integration and efficient functioning of the collaborative activities needed to achieve PCORI s strategic goals. Convenes, supports, and works closely with a variety of PCORI-sponsored advisory panels and workshops that include scientists, patients, and other stakeholders, to focus PCORI s attention on critical research topics and questions, to prioritize these research topics and questions, and to advance understanding of the methods and disseminate findings of patient-centered, comparative clinical effectiveness research. Collaborates with PCORI s Executive Director and other members of the Executive Leadership Team in evaluating and improving the processes used by PCORI to engage stakeholder communities, and the impact of the research portfolio and its findings on practice patterns and patient outcomes. Contributes to the national dialogue on comparative clinical effectiveness research through presentations and through contributions to the peer-reviewed scientific literature. Incumbent(s) in this position may be required to perform other duties and special assignments not specifically stated above. Statements outlined in this section are designated as essential job functions in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act of III. REQUIRED SKILLS Possession of a strong reputation as a thought leader within the research community, as manifested by having published extensively on a range of clinical or health services topics in the peer-reviewed literature over a significant period of time; and/or by having served as an editor of a scientific journal, as chair of multiple peer-review or merit-review panels, or as chair of committees charged with evidence-driven policy development (e.g., USPSTF, IOM, major practice guidelines programs). Distinguished record of research leadership, including experience building a successful multidisciplinary research program or a research department, with responsibility for recruiting and mentoring scientific staff that have made scientific contributions in clinical or health services research. Ability to inspire, mentor, manage and coordinate a team of six Scientific Program Directors who will implement and sustain the Institute s Research Agenda. Ability to work across portfolios of research topics simultaneously, to envision and support multidisciplinary approaches to research, and to encourage and accept input from others. Collaborative and collegial leadership style. PCORI RFP # PCO-CSOSEARCH

25 One who can translate complex scientific concepts easily to a wide audience in lay terms. Experience working with functionally diverse teams. Ability to thrive while leading a fast-paced research funding organization, to remain focused but not rigid, to delegate effectively, and to maintain an openness to innovative approaches to organizational and research challenges, especially when these alternatives offer more patientcentered approaches. A keen interest in and demonstrated capacity to work effectively with patients and/or other nonscientist stakeholders in the planning and conduct of patient-centered research. Excellent written and verbal skills. Flexible and resourceful. Humble; seeks input from and gives credit to others. Strong work ethic. Measured in thought and response. Executive presence and strong presentation skills. Demonstrated skill in conducting and leading multi-stakeholder meetings toward consensus. Objective, with high integrity and professionalism. Sense of humor; likes working with others. IV. REQUIRED EXPERIENCE Senior level researcher with doctoral-level training in a clinical and/or research discipline relevant to patient-centered outcomes research (e.g., clinical medicine, nursing, dentistry, pharmacy, clinical epidemiology, health services research, public health); or a Master s degree in one of these disciplines along with a professional clinical degree (e.g., medicine, nursing, pharmacy, dentistry, clinical psychology). Training and extensive experience in conducting and leading clinical research, clinical epidemiology, and/or health services research, or in evidence synthesis or funding of research. Direct experience in conducting empirical research, particularly comparative clinical effectiveness research is highly desirable. Experience managing research program and/or departmental budgets required. Professional experience in a senior management and/or executive role required. PCORI Staff Conflict of Interest Statement No PCORI employee can receive a direct financial benefit from a healthcare related organization during the course of his/her employment with PCORI. PCORI RFP # PCO-CSOSEARCH