Director, Operational Excellence (Clinical Trials & Evidence Generation)

Introduction to role:

Are you ready to drive impactful change in the world of oncology clinical trials and evidence generation? The Medical Evidence Delivery Operations within AstraZeneca's Oncology Business Unit is at the forefront of delivering high-quality clinical trials observational and interventional studies, externally sponsored research, and early access programs. As the Director, Operational Excellence , you will provide strategic and operational leadership to ensure that our Evidence Delivery Team excels in clinical project management, portfolio resource and capacity planning, and evidence generation.

Your pivotal role will involve aligning resources and capacity with AstraZeneca's strategic goals, optimizing processes across clinical project portfolios, leading resource forecasting and allocation, and driving evidence-driven decision-making with a strong focus on performance and key performance indicators (KPIs). You will be instrumental in proactively identifying and managing operational and strategic risks, supporting major initiatives, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement. By integrating innovative resource allocation, forecasting, and performance management frameworks, you will help position our clinical operations for both current and future success.

Accountabilities:

Portfolio Resource & Capacity Planning: You will lead and orchestrate comprehensive portfolio resource and capacity planning efforts to deliver the full spectrum of clinical trials and evidence generation projects. Through robust oversight, you will ensure transparent tracking and reporting of resource allocation, enabling optimal deployment of FTEs across the portfolio.

Strategic Resource Allocation & Forecasting: Align project resources with AstraZeneca's clinical development and evidence generation priorities. Develop operational plans and forecasts based on pipeline demand, business objectives, and study timelines. Maintain accurate resource algorithms and data to model diverse capacity scenarios and inform strategic decision-making.

Clinical Project Management: Support and enhance evidence generation and clinical trial delivery by championing operational excellence best practices, process improvement initiatives, and cross-functional collaboration. Ensure projects are executed efficiently, with clear accountability and performance metrics.

Performance & KPI Management: Design and implement comprehensive performance management systems. Establish and track key metrics (KPIs) that measure productivity, resource utilization, project progress, and delivery milestones. Use data analytics to drive targeted improvements and promote a culture of high performance.

Risk Management: Proactively identify and evaluate risks across the clinical trial and evidence generation portfolio, focusing on issues related to resource constraints, operational hurdles, and strategic alignment. Develop effective mitigation and contingency plans to ensure robust program delivery.

Strategic Initiatives & Change Management: Take ownership of complex, cross-functional strategic initiatives that advance operational capabilities for clinical development and evidence generation. Lead teams through change, building resilience and motivation.

Stakeholder Collaboration: Work with internal and external stakeholders—functional resource managers, finance, clinical project leads, and global partners—to optimize operational capabilities and promote cross-functional alignment in clinical trials and evidence generation programs.

Essential Skills/Experience:

• Deep expertise in resource management and capacity planning, preferably within clinical trial and evidence generation settings.

• Proven track record in clinical project management and portfolio operational excellence, ideally in pharmaceutical or biotechnology organizations.

• Demonstrated success in developing and implementing resource allocation and forecasting strategies for large clinical portfolios.

• Experience establishing and monitoring performance and KPIs within complex project environments.

• Strong capability to lead change management initiatives and deliver operational strategies that enhance efficiency and adaptability.

• Confidence in using data analytics for evidence-based decision making.

• Exceptional stakeholder management and collaboration skills across diverse functional areas and regions.

• University degree (or equivalent) required.

• High degree of cultural sensitivity, negotiation, networking, and communication skills.

Desirable Skills/Experience:

• Experience in portfolio analysis and performance management for clinical studies.

• Several years’ experience within pharmaceutical or clinical evidence generation environments.

• Broad understanding of evidence study delivery, clinical trials operations, and diverse medical activities.

• Exposure to risk management frameworks and best practices in clinical operations.

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.

AstraZeneca offers an environment where ambition is fueled and groundbreaking ideas are welcomed. Our expanding BioPharmaceuticals pipeline is a testament to our commitment to addressing evolving patient needs. We connect science with technology, creating solutions that impact patients globally. Here, diversity is our strength, empowering everyone to share ideas openly. With a focus on continuous learning and development, AstraZeneca provides ample opportunities for growth. Join us as we redefine the future of healthcare, making a difference in patients' lives worldwide.

Ready to make your mark? Apply now to be part of our dynamic team!

Date Posted

06-Aug-2025

Closing Date

14-Aug-2025

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 authorization and employment eligibility verification requirements.

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.