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Project Portfolio Director Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Reports to Portfolio Director. Directly manages Project Controls staff. May oversee multiple Project Controls teams supporting various client portfolios. Responsibilities: Leads and manages the ...

Reports to Portfolio Director. * Directly manages Project Controls staff. * May oversee multiple Project Controls teams supporting various client portfolios. Responsibilities: * Leads and manages the ...

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Project Portfolio Director information

See California salary details

$24.9K

$105.7K

$211.1K

How much do project portfolio director jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for project portfolio director in California is $105,735.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,000.00 and $132,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a project portfolio director?

Project Portfolio Directors are senior leaders responsible for overseeing a collection of projects and programs within an organization to ensure they align with business objectives and deliver maximum value. They manage the selection, prioritization, and governance of projects, balancing resources, risks, and strategic goals. Their role involves coordinating between executives, project managers, and stakeholders to optimize project outcomes and ensure organizational success.

What does a project portfolio director do?

A Project Portfolio Director is responsible for aligning project selection and prioritization with the organization’s strategic goals, which often means maintaining a high-level view of all active and proposed projects. However, they also need to engage directly with project managers and stakeholders to resolve resource conflicts, monitor key performance indicators, and address critical risks. Balancing these responsibilities requires strong communication skills, effective delegation, and regular review meetings to ensure each project aligns with overall business objectives. This dual focus helps drive both immediate project success and long-term organizational growth.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a project portfolio director?

To thrive as a Project Portfolio Director, you need extensive experience in project management, strategic planning, and portfolio governance, often supported by a bachelor's or master's degree and certifications like PMP or PfMP. Proficiency with project portfolio management tools such as Microsoft Project, Smartsheet, or Planview is typically required. Exceptional leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills set outstanding professionals apart in this role. These abilities are critical for aligning projects with organizational strategy, optimizing resource allocation, and delivering successful outcomes across multiple initiatives.

What is the difference between Project Portfolio Director vs Program Manager?

AspectProject Portfolio DirectorProgram Manager
ResponsibilitiesOversees multiple projects and programs to align with strategic goals, manages portfolio performanceManages a specific program consisting of related projects, ensuring successful delivery
FocusStrategic alignment and portfolio optimizationOperational execution and project coordination
CredentialsTypically requires PMP, PgMP, or similar certificationsOften holds PMP or similar project management certifications
Work EnvironmentSenior leadership, strategic planning teams, executive levelProject teams, cross-functional teams, stakeholders

The Project Portfolio Director focuses on aligning multiple projects with organizational strategy, managing overall portfolio performance. In contrast, a Program Manager concentrates on the successful delivery of a specific program and its related projects. Both roles require project management certifications and involve working with teams, but their scope and strategic level differ significantly.

What are the most commonly searched types of Project Portfolio jobs in California?

The most popular types of Project Portfolio jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Project Portfolio Director jobs?

Cities in California with the most Project Portfolio Director job openings:

Infographic showing various Project Portfolio Director job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $105,735 per year, or $50.8 per hour.

Portfolio Director - US/EU

Novotech

South San Francisco, CA • On-site

$280K/yr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago


Job description


Responsibilities:
Portfolio Growth & Management
• Take a leading role in growing the Portfolio book of business through working closely with the Medical & Scientific Strategist (MSS) and Business Development Team to develop successful operational strategy and delivery plans for project Proposals; participate in Bid Defense Meetings and lead operational follow-up activities.
• Work with MSS to develop and maintain "Play Books", White Papers, Marketing materials, Scientific Advisor Panels, service offerings, etc to ensure the continued growth of the Portfolio.
• Lead and oversee the execution of multiple clinical development projects within the Portfolio, ensuring alignment with client strategic goals and regulatory requirements.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with clients, acting as the primary point of contact for client management in relation to project-related matters.
• Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure project performance, delivery timelines, financial health, and client satisfaction.
• Ensure that all projects comply with ICH-GCP guidelines and applicable regulatory requirements.
Leadership and People Management
• Manage and coach Project Directors and Project Managers, providing guidance, support, and development opportunities both within the Portfolio and the wider Novotech business.
• Foster a high-performing culture across the Portfolio by encouraging collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• Ensure optimal resource allocation and utilization across projects in alignment with business needs.
Strategic Planning & Execution
• Collaborate with the Head PM [Immunology & Infectious Disease] Therapeutic Area to contribute to the strategic plans and direction of the TA.
• Participate in long-term planning for the TA, driving initiatives to optimize processes, improve efficiency, and achieve growth targets.
• Work closely with cross-functional leadership to ensure Project Team and project success.
Client Engagement & Satisfaction
• Serve as the primary point of contact for clients, managing relationships at the Portfolio level to ensure client satisfaction and loyalty.
• Lead Portfolio-level client meetings and provide updates on project progress, risks, and mitigation strategies.
• Identify and address client considerations to maintain and develop the health of the relationship in a proactive manner.
Risk Management
• Identify, assess, and mitigate risks at the portfolio level, implementing corrective and preventive actions as needed.
• Ensure that all projects within the portfolio adhere to internal and external risk management policies and procedures.
Financial Oversight
• Oversee the financial performance of the Portfolio, managing budgets, forecasting, and ensuring profitability.
• Collaborate with Finance and senior management to ensure financial health and accurate reporting of the Portfolio's financial performance.
• Ensure appropriate resource allocation to meet the financial and operational needs of the Portfolio.
Minimum Qualifications & Experience:
• Bachelor's or advanced degree in Life Sciences, Clinical Research, or a related field.
• 10+ years of experience in clinical research, with 5+ years in project management or portfolio management roles.
• Strong knowledge of clinical trials, drug development, and regulatory requirements (e.g., ICH-GCP).
• Proven experience in leading large, complex projects and managing cross-functional teams in a global environment.
• Highly developed strategic development skills.
• Excellent business development skills.
• Exceptional client management skills with a track record of successful stakeholder engagement and client satisfaction.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and problem-solving skills.
• Financial acumen with experience managing project budgets and financial performance.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment with shifting priorities.
Competencies:
• Leadership & People Management
• Strategic Thinking
• Risk & Issue Management
• Financial Management
• Client Focus
• Problem Solving & Decision Making
• Cross-functional Collaboration
This role is open to talents in US/EU regions. You must have full unrestricted working rights in USA/EU to be considered for this role as we unfortunately cannot provide sponsorship for this role.
Salary band : up to $280,000 USD - Salary offered will be based on candidates experience level.
Find out more about working at Novotech at: www.novotech-cro.com/careers
Novotech is proud to offer a great workplace. We are committed to being an employer of choice for gender equality and providing an inclusive work environment where everyone is treated fairly and with respect.
Our team members are passionate about what we do, but we understand work is only of the things that is important to them. We support our team members with flexible working options, paid parental leave for both parents, flexible leave entitlements, wellness programs and ongoing development programs.
We are looking for people who are passionate about working clinical research and biotech, including people who identify as LGBTIQ+, have a disability or have caring responsibilities.
We are a Circle Back Initiative Employer and commit to respond to every application. We look forward to contacting you regarding your application.
Find out more about working at Novotech at: www.novotech-cro.com/careers
Novotech is proud to offer a great workplace. We are committed to being an employer of choice for gender equality and providing an inclusive work environment where everyone is treated fairly and with respect.
Our team members are passionate about what we do, but we understand work is only of the things that is important to them. We support our team members with flexible working options, paid parental leave for both parents, flexible leave entitlements, wellness programs and ongoing development programs.
We are looking for people who are passionate about working clinical research and biotech, including people who identify as LGBTIQ+, have a disability or have caring responsibilities.
We are a Circle Back Initiative Employer and commit to respond to every application. We look forward to contacting you regarding your application.