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Director Operational Excellence (Evidence Clinical Trials Unit)

Location Gaithersburg, Maryland, United States Job ID R-236218 Date posted 24/09/2025

Director Operational Excellence (Evidence Clinical Trials Unit)

Introduction to role

Join AstraZeneca's Oncology Business Unit as the Director of Operational Excellence, where you will play a pivotal role in driving the effective delivery of observational and interventional studies. Your leadership will ensure that the Evidence Delivery Team operates at peak efficiency, aligning resources with AstraZeneca's strategic goals. As a catalyst for change, you will optimize resource allocation, streamline processes, and foster a culture of continuous improvement. This is your chance to make a profound impact on the organization and ensure that operations are positioned for future strategic opportunities.

Accountabilities

  • Lead resource and capacity planning activities to efficiently deliver the portfolio of studies and ensure data transparency.
  • Align resources with AstraZeneca's strategic imperatives, optimizing allocation to support global initiatives.
  • Monitor FTE capacity and develop operational plans based on future demand forecasts.
  • Identify and mitigate risks related to resource allocation and capacity constraints.
  • Maintain accurate resource tracking for visibility across all projects.
  • Collaborate with functional resource managers and finance directors to secure necessary FTE allocations.
  • Identify and implement process improvements for optimal operational performance.
  • Foster a culture of continuous improvement and adaptability within operational practices.
  • Act as a change agent, leading teams through organizational changes.
  • Establish metrics to monitor resource utilization and exceed productivity targets.
  • Collaborate with stakeholders to enhance operational capabilities and deliver impactful results.
  • Identify potential risks in operations and develop strategies to mitigate them.

Essential Skills/Experience

  • Minimum 5 years of experience in resource management, including capacity planning and allocation.
  • Proven track record of developing and implementing operational strategies and initiatives that enhance efficiency and effectiveness.
  • Demonstrated ability to lead and inspire teams through change management and continuous improvement initiatives.
  • Experience in utilizing data analytics to drive decision-making and measure operational success.
  • Excellent stakeholder management skills, with experience collaborating across multiple functions and regions.
  • Bachelor's University degree (or equivalent).
  • High cultural sensitivity, negotiation, and collaboration skills, coupled with extensive networking capabilities.

Desirable Skills/Experience

  • Exposure to or experience of Portfolio analysis and management.
  • Several years’ experience working within a pharmaceutical organization.
  • Knowledge of the different types of medical activities, including evidence study delivery

The annual base pay for this position ranges from $ 196,778.40 - 295,167.60 USD. Base pay offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including market location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. In addition, our positions offer a short-term incentive bonus opportunity; eligibility to participate in our equity-based long-term incentive program. Benefits offered include a qualified retirement program [401(k) plan]; paid vacation and holidays; paid leaves; and, health benefits including medical, prescription drug, dental, and vision coverage in accordance with the terms and conditions of the applicable plans. Additional details of participation in these benefit plans will be provided if an employee receives an offer of employment. If hired, employee will be in an “at-will position” and the Company reserves the right to modify base pay (as well as any other discretionary payment or compensation program) at any time, including for reasons related to individual performance, Company or individual department/team performance, and market factors.

Why AstraZeneca?

When we put unexpected teams in the same room, we unleash bold thinking with the power to inspire life-changing medicines. In-person working gives us the platform we need to connect, work at pace and challenge perceptions. That's why we work, on average, a minimum of three days per week from the office. But that doesn't mean we're not flexible. We balance the expectation of being in the office while respecting individual flexibility. Join us in our unique and ambitious world.

At AstraZeneca, you'll find a dynamic environment where innovation thrives. Our dedicated Oncology team is committed to transforming cancer treatment through cutting-edge research and novel therapies. With access to industry-leading technology and a robust pipeline, you'll have the opportunity to accelerate your career while making a meaningful impact on patients' lives. Embrace the chance to learn, grow, and contribute to groundbreaking advancements in oncology.

Ready to take the next step in your career? Apply now to join our team and be part of something extraordinary!

Date Posted

25-Sept-2025

Closing Date

08-Oct-2025

Our mission is to build an inclusive environment where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants and employees. In furtherance of that mission, we welcome and consider applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of their protected characteristics. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please complete the corresponding section in the application form.



AstraZeneca embraces diversity and equality of opportunity. We are committed to building an inclusive and diverse team representing all backgrounds, with as wide a range of perspectives as possible, and harnessing industry-leading skills. We believe that the more inclusive we are, the better our work will be. We welcome and consider applications to join our team from all qualified candidates, regardless of their characteristics. We comply with all applicable laws and regulations on non-discrimination in employment (and recruitment), as well as work authorisation and employment eligibility verification requirements.

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Glassdoor logo Rated four stars on Glassdoor

Great culture, great work assignments, supportive management. Rotation opportunity within the company. They value inclusion and diversity.