Director, Research Business Partner - RDU R&D IT

Introduction to role:

Are you ready to lead and innovate in the dynamic world of biopharmaceuticals? We are searching for a seasoned IT professional with 10-15 years of experience in the biopharmaceutical industry, focusing on senior business partnering, to join us as Director, Research Business Partner in the RDU R&D IT function. In this pivotal role, you will be a thought leader and strategic partner, identifying high-value opportunities for R&D, setting strategies, prioritizing portfolios, and ensuring the execution of projects that deliver significant benefits for development activities. Your communication skills will be crucial as you engage with colleagues at all levels, from junior staff to the CIO, fostering constructive dialogue and maintaining professionalism. Are you ready to embrace new technologies and drive continuous improvement every day?

Accountabilities:

• Thought Leadership: Collaborate with business leaders across the Research function to understand their needs and provide IT solutions that support business goals and deliver value.

• Budgeting: Develop and manage the IT budget, ensuring cost-effective use of resources. Monitor and report on budget performance, making adjustments as necessary.

• Prioritization: Evaluate and prioritize IT projects based on business needs, resource availability, and potential impact.

• Risk Management: Identify and mitigate risks associated with IT projects and operations.

• Driving Strategy: Develop and execute IT strategies that align with the company's overall business strategy.

• Leading Projects: Lead and manage IT Research projects from inception to completion.

• People: Attract necessary talent and manage vendors and vendor relationships as needed.

Essential Skills/Experience:

• A minimum of 10 years working either in or near a biopharmaceutical Research role either within IT and/or in the Research or Process Development function itself, the ideal candidate has done both.

• Undergraduate degree in computer science, information technology, business or related field.

• Strong R&D business background with experience and partnering with senior executives.

• Proven track record of innovation utilizing technology, partners, and teams tied to business outcomes.

• Detail-oriented, self-starter and able to work both independently and in a team environment.

• Experience managing technical resources and project teams.

• Experience with Development systems and processes.

• Strong analytical and critical thinking skills.

• Strong architectural and application development background.

• Strong understanding of data models and architecture.

• Ability to manage multiple projects under tight timelines.

• Understanding of PMI methodologies and project management experience.

• Proven track-record of delivering projects utilizing agile SDLC.

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

• Experience with formalized change management processes.

• Familiarity with both regulatory (GxP) and corporate compliance domains.

• Ability to take direction and work independently to complete tasks and solve problems.

• Influence and persuasion expertise.

• Experience forming data strategy.

As an IT Business Partner leader, you will be expected to have proficiency in: 

• Demand Management - Effectively managing and forecasting the organization's demand for products and services to ensure alignment with supply capabilities and strategic objectives 

• Portfolio Management - Optimizing the organization's investment portfolio to maximize value, optimize resource allocation, and balance risk and return.​ 

• Value Realization - Iidentifying and realizing the full potential value of the organization's products, services, and capabilities to drive profitability and growth.​ 

• Innovation - Fostering a culture of innovation and continuous improvement to develop new products, services, and business models that meet evolving customer needs. 

• Governance - Establishing clear decision-making processes, accountability, and oversight to ensure the alignment of business activities with strategic objectives and risk management practices.​ 

Desirable Skills/Experience:

• Advanced degree in information technology or information sciences, or specific sciences.

• Prior experience in leading edge technologies, such as Gen AI and advanced data modeling.

• Experience with Bioinformatics and/or Diagnostics activities within Biopharmaceutical industry.

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 an environment where innovation thrives! Our commitment to rare diseases means embracing challenges with agility and creativity. We are pioneers in R&D, driven by a passion for making a difference in patients' lives. With a rapidly expanding portfolio, you'll enjoy the entrepreneurial spirit of a leading biotech while being supported by exceptional leaders. Here, your career is not just a path but a journey towards impactful change.

Ready to make a difference? Apply now to join our team!

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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.