Associate Director, R&D Strategy & Strategic Initiatives

About the job

This position is listed on behalf of a partner company, who manages all applications and next steps. Our partner is looking for an Associate Director, R&D Strategy & Strategic Initiatives based in the United States.

This is an exciting opportunity for a strategic and analytical professional to help shape priorities and drive organizational excellence within a global Research & Development (R&D) organization. In this role, you will work closely with senior leadership to address complex business challenges, evaluate emerging opportunities, and develop recommendations that support long-term R&D success. You will operate at the intersection of scientific innovation, business strategy, and operational execution, contributing to initiatives across research, clinical development, and emerging innovation platforms. Combining strategic thinking with hands-on project leadership, you will transform complex information into actionable insights and measurable outcomes. This position offers broad exposure to executive decision-making, cross-functional collaboration, and the evolving biopharmaceutical landscape. It is ideal for an intellectually curious, entrepreneurial problem-solver who thrives in dynamic environments and enjoys turning ambitious ideas into practical solutions.

\n

Accountabilities:

• Lead strategic analyses addressing key R&D priorities, organizational capabilities, productivity, portfolio considerations, and emerging business opportunities.

• Structure complex and ambiguous strategic questions, formulate hypotheses, conduct targeted research, and translate findings into clear, actionable recommendations.

• Conduct industry benchmarking, competitive intelligence, market assessments, and evaluations of innovative R&D approaches, operating models, and business opportunities.

• Contribute to the development of R&D strategies, long-term organizational priorities, and initiatives designed to strengthen research and development capabilities.

• Independently manage strategic workstreams and special projects from initial problem definition and analysis through recommendations and early-stage implementation.

• Collaborate with Research, Development, Finance, Business Development, and other cross-functional teams to gather insights, assess alternatives, and advance strategic priorities.

• Support initiatives focused on R&D innovation, external partnerships, new operating models, and the continuous evolution of development capabilities.

• Translate strategic recommendations into practical implementation plans and support their execution to ensure progress and alignment with organizational objectives.

• Prepare high-quality executive presentations, strategic narratives, briefing documents, and recommendations to support senior R&D leadership decisions.

• Support organization-wide R&D strategic planning, goal setting, governance, and leadership decision-making processes.

• Synthesize complex quantitative and qualitative information into clear insights, business implications, strategic trade-offs, and recommended actions.

• Coordinate high-priority activities within the R&D leadership office, including leadership meetings, strategic discussions, and cross-functional initiatives.

• Potentially mentor other team members and contribute to a collaborative, high-performing team environment.

Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree required; an advanced degree is preferred. A PhD with approximately 3–4 years of relevant experience or a Master's degree with approximately 6 years of experience is particularly desirable. Exceptions may be considered for candidates with equivalent relevant professional experience.

• Professional experience in biopharmaceuticals, life sciences consulting, corporate strategy, business operations, or related fields. Both consulting and industry backgrounds are valued.

• Strong understanding of the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries, including familiarity with drug discovery, clinical development, and the broader R&D value chain.

• Demonstrated ability to independently structure and solve complex, ambiguous strategic problems, develop well-supported recommendations, and manage workstreams with limited supervision.

• Exceptional analytical, critical-thinking, problem-solving, and information-synthesis skills, with the ability to turn complex data into meaningful business insights.

• Excellent executive communication, presentation, and storytelling skills, including the ability to develop clear, compelling, and decision-oriented materials for senior leadership.

• Strong project management and organizational capabilities, with the ability to manage multiple priorities, coordinate stakeholders, and drive initiatives through to completion.

• Intellectual curiosity, sound business judgment, resourcefulness, and the ability to engage confidently with diverse scientific, operational, and commercial topics.

• Excellent interpersonal and relationship-building skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across functions and engage with senior stakeholders.

• Entrepreneurial mindset, proactive attitude, attention to detail, and adaptability in a fast-paced and evolving environment.

• Ability to balance strategic thinking with practical implementation, take ownership of responsibilities, and deliver high-quality results.

• Demonstrated commitment to teamwork, continuous learning, inclusivity, innovation, and clear communication.

Benefits:

• Competitive annual base salary: $155,100–$205,100, depending on relevant experience, qualifications, skills, and work location.

• Performance-based compensation: Eligibility for an annual bonus plan.

• Equity opportunities: Eligibility for discretionary equity awards and voluntary participation in the Employee Stock Purchase Plan.

• Comprehensive healthcare coverage: Medical, dental, and vision insurance.

• Retirement savings: 401(k) plan.

• Financial wellness benefits: Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) and Health Savings Accounts (HSA).

• Insurance protection: Life insurance coverage.

• Work-life balance: Paid time off and wellness programs.

• Remote flexibility: U.S.-based remote working arrangement.

• Career development: Opportunity to work closely with senior R&D executives and contribute to high-impact global strategic initiatives.

• Professional exposure: Broad collaboration across scientific, business, and operational functions within the biopharmaceutical industry.

• Leadership opportunities: Potential to mentor colleagues and contribute to the development of a collaborative, high-performing team.

\nHow Jobgether works:

We use an AI-powered matching process to ensure your application is reviewed quickly, objectively, and fairly against the role's core requirements. Our system identifies the top-fitting candidates, and this shortlist is then shared directly with the hiring company. The final decision and next steps (interviews, assessments) are managed by their internal team.

We appreciate your interest and wish you the best!

 Why Apply Through Jobgether?

Data Privacy Notice: By submitting your application, you acknowledge that Jobgether will process your personal data to evaluate your candidacy and share relevant information with the hiring employer. This processing is based on legitimate interest and pre-contractual measures under applicable data protection laws (including GDPR). You may exercise your rights (access, rectification, erasure, objection) at any time.

#LI-CL1