Executive Director, Strategy, Oncology R&D

Job Description

Executive Director, Strategy, Oncology R&D

Location: Waltham or Gaithersburg

Do you have a strategic mindset, analytical rigor, and people leadership that enables you to deliver positive outcomes on high-impact and complex strategic topics? Are you looking to demonstrate those skills to help lead the team that shapes our future oncology strategy and portfolio?

About AstraZeneca

AstraZeneca is a global, science-led biopharmaceutical company and our innovative medicines are used by millions of patients worldwide. This is the place to make an impact. Here we ensure everyone can reach their full potential, perform at their best and make a valued contribution to the enterprise.

Within Oncology R&D, we are empowered to be bold, take calculated risks and use our intelligence and courage to always follow the science. This approach has enabled us to successfully deliver 7 new Oncology medicines in as many years.

It is the breadth and strength of our innovative pipeline that offers both security and stability. And with the goal to deliver 6 new molecular entities by 2025, it’s up to each of us to keep pushing our industry-leading Oncology pipeline forward and build the future.

Oncology Strategy, Business Development & Alliances Team

Our team sits at the center of Oncology R&D – driving our R&D strategy and addressing the unmet needs and future focus of AstraZeneca’s oncology pipeline. We operate both internally and externally, leading collaboration and acquisition opportunities as well as partnering closely with external alliances.

Responsibilities:

In this role, you will report to SVP, Oncology R&D Strategy, Business Development & Alliances and be accountable for the development and delivery of Therapeutic Area Strategy which may include a specific disease area and/or platform technology based on our latest priorities.

What you will do including:

• Develop and prioritize Oncology R&D portfolio strategy.

• Define and communicate clear strategic direction for near- and long-term growth across assets and platforms.

• Integrate clinical, scientific, and commercial insights to shape portfolio decisions and investment.

• Partner with internal and external stakeholders to deliver on high-impact strategic objectives.

How you will operate

• Advise executive senior leadership with clear, actionable insights and recommendations on complex strategic topics.

• Partner with leaders across clinical development, discovery, business development, and other key functions to create cohesive long-term strategies.

• Analyze internal and external data to identify trends, risks, and opportunities for portfolio growth and optimization.

• Foster a culture of collaboration, innovation, and accountability across all stakeholder groups.

• Ensure effective communication of strategy, progress, and priorities to diverse audiences, both internal and external.

Basic Qualifications:

• BA/BS and 10 years of experience in life sciences or consulting firm with focus in life science programs.

• OR MS/MBA and 8+ years of experience in life sciences or consulting firm with focus in life science programs.

• OR PhD or MD and 5+ of experience in life sciences or consulting firm with focus in life science programs.

• Deep understanding of Oncology Therapeutic Area Strategy which may include a specific disease area and/or platform technologies.

• Ability to interact and communicate effectively with senior executive teams.

• Demonstrated ability to lead and influence experienced professionals.

• Ability to think critically, creatively and to anticipate and solve problems.

• Ability to navigate and be successful in a fast-paced, highly-matrixed work environment

Preferred Qualifications:

• Strong analytical and communication skills

• Effective interpersonal and relationship management skills with consultative approach and ability to interact and build trust

• Operational effectiveness, highly organized process with follow through

• Strong initiative to understand our core business goals and establish processes or programs to set direction, generate alignment and push forward

• Financial background and understanding of forecasts, budgets, financial activities and tools

• Resourceful, motivated, influential and proactive; able to prioritize in a fast-growing organization

• Experience in strategic planning processes and tools

• Scientific background

• Understanding of the pharmaceutical business (including R&D)

• Experience in translating business needs into a coordinated plan from cross-functional senior leadership team

• Ability to develop creative and simple solutions to complex problems

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Why AstraZeneca?

At AstraZeneca, we 're dedicated to being a Great Place to Work. Where you are empowered to push the boundaries of science and unleash your entrepreneurial spirit. There’s no better place to make a difference to medicine, patients and society. An inclusive culture that champions diversity and collaboration, and always committed to lifelong learning, growth and development. We’re on an exciting journey to pioneer the future of healthcare.

So, what’s next?

Are you ready to bring new ideas and fresh thinking to the table? Brilliant! We have one seat available, and we hope it’s yours.

As AstraZeneca continues to put patients at the forefront of our mission, we are excited for our move to Kendall Square/Cambridge in 2026.

Find out more information here:

Kendall Square Press Release

Date Posted

09-Jul-2025

Closing Date

19-Oct-2025Our mission is to build an inclusive and equitable environment. We want people to feel they belong at AstraZeneca and Alexion, starting with our recruitment process. We welcome and consider applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of characteristics. We offer reasonable adjustments/accommodations to help all candidates to perform at their best. If you have a need for any adjustments/accommodations, please complete the section in the application form.