Executive Director, Head of US Bioscience, Small Molecules, Oncology Targeted Discovery

Do you have a strategic mindset, analytical rigor, and visionary people leadership that enables you to deliver positive outcomes on high-impact projects? If you are looking to demonstrate those skills to help lead teams that shape our future oncology strategy, portfolio and decision making, we are keen to hear from you.

About AstraZeneca

At AstraZeneca, we’re not afraid to do things differently. We’re building a new kind of organization to reset expectations of what a bio-pharmaceutical company can be. This means we’re opening up innovative ways of working, pioneering ground-breaking methods and bringing cross-functional teams together. Early Oncology is focused on attacking cancer from multiple angles through innovative modalities, realizing the potential of combinations and building treatment regimens with depth, durability and precision. This senior leadership position – within the Oncology Targeted Discovery Department – will be accountable for the generation of bioscience data packages to support candidate drug selection and clinical positioning of assets including prioritization of cross-portfolio combinations.

We are seeking a dynamic and experienced leader to lead the drug discovery efforts in small molecule portfolio in Oncology R&D.  In this role you will report to VP, Small Molecule Bioscience and lead a bioscience department based in Kendall Square.

Key accountabilities include:

• Providing strategic leadership and direction for the Bioscience function and partnering with the Oncology Targeted Discovery senior leadership team in the vision and execution of the small molecule bioscience strategy.

• Evolving the capabilities and fostering a collaborative and high-performing culture, ensuring resources are used appropriately to satisfy current and anticipated needs of the organization, and that the function drives performance and delivers business value.

• Driving portfolio prioritization, staying abreast of the latest external developments and innovations and being able to identify future strategic opportunities.

• Collaborating cross-functionally with colleagues across the discovery, translational and clinical organizations.

Education, Qualifications, Skills and Experience

• PhD in Biological science discipline

• Minimum of 10 years’ experience in biotechnology or pharmaceutical industry with deep drug discovery experience and ability to manage cross-functional stakeholders

• Proven track record of delivering portfolio success in both pre-clinical and clinical phase.  Experience of driving innovation and delivering strategic / operational change across the business

• Oversight of in vivo pharmacology with awareness of local regulations

• Proven leadership experience promoting, motivating and empowering others to accomplish individual, team and organizational objectives. Effective interpersonal and relationship management skills with consultative approach and ability to interact and build trust

• Strong leadership and communication skills – ability to convey scientifically complex data and concepts in a simple, straightforward manner

• Ability to influence strategically and persuade tactfully, to obtain desired outcomes while maintaining effective, positive organizational relationships

• Expert reputation within the business and externally across the industry

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 on our journey of building a new kind of organization to reset expectations of what a bio-pharmaceutical company can be. This means we’re opening new ways to work, ground-breaking pioneering methods and bringing unexpected teams together. Interested? Come and join our journey!

So, what’s next?

If you are passionate about the possibilities, don't hesitate in submitting an application today!

Our Social Media, Follow AstraZeneca on LinkedIn

Follow AstraZeneca on Facebook

Follow AstraZeneca on Instagram

The annual base pay for this position ranges from $281,872.80 - 422,809.20. Hourly and salaried non-exempt employees will also be paid overtime pay when working qualifying overtime hours. 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 (salaried roles), to receive a retirement contribution (hourly roles), and commission payment eligibility (sales roles). Benefits offered included 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.

Date Posted

14-Apr-2026

Closing Date

30-Jul-2026Our 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.