Executive Director, Strategy, Oncology R&D

What if your next role helped   e liminate   cancer as a cause of death?

At AstraZeneca, our Oncology ambition is unparalleled .   W e’ve   built and strategically   acquired   one of the most promising pipelines in the industry, driven by a bold vision to push the boundaries of science, change the practice of medicine, and   ultimately   eliminate   cancer as a cause of death. You will be among inspiring oncology industry leaders who will empower you to be the best, joining teams with a shared sense of urgency to   cure   cancer and transform patients’ lives.   ​

With a strong and growing pipeline across multiple scientific pillars and tumor types, we rely on highly skilled Strategy Leads to craft integrated therapeutic area strategies ,   combining clinical, scientific, and commercial insights   to shape portfolio choices and clarify sophisticated investment priorities across assets and platforms.

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As   an   Executive Director, Strategy, Oncology R&D,   you will own and drive the global Oncology R&D strategy ,   setting priorities for the senior executive team and transforming our approach to deliver impact for patients across disease areas and/or platform technologies aligned to our latest priorities. This is a critical opportunity to apply scientific   expertise   and strategic analysis to influence high ‑ stakes decisions with direct patient impact. Working at the highest level, you will ensure our choices   optimize   return on investment and patient outcomes by presenting clear options, tradeoffs, and recommendations tied to value and risk.

To be successful, you will need:

- Clear and organized thinking with ability to simplify and prioritize complex problems
- T he a pplication of   strong, data-driven analysis to move beyond high-level views
- D eep scientific acumen to navigate complex data and insights
- The a bility to   establish   and maintain credibility with senior audiences
- Proven track record to   anticipate   and shape   the oncology market and key trends with emerging science   ​

Accountabilities:

- Own   the   O ncology   R&D portfolio strategy : Lead the creation of comprehensive therapeutic area strategies that integrate clinical, scientific, and commercial insights to shape   strate gic   priorities across assets and platforms.
- Advise   executive senior leadership : Provide disciplined, insight driven recommendations on complex strategic topics to   senior   stakeholders, delivering clear and actionable guidance on portfolio optimization and investment decisions.
- Drive   meaningful   action:   Build credibility through   expertise , relationships, and trust to persuade and align others without formal authority ,   leading   using robust evidence, metrics,   and   clear cases   to legitimize decision s.
- P artner across the enterprise : Collaborate with leaders across clinical development, discovery, business development, and other key functions to create cohesive long-term strategies that drive innovation and impact.
- Analytical   depth and rigor :   Set the standards of   strong analytical skills to break down complex problems ,   ensuring decisions, vision, and strategy are firmly grounded in evidence.
- Analyze and generate strategic insights :   Lead   meticulous analysis of internal and external data to   identify   trends, risks, and opportunities for portfolio   growth and optimization, translating findings into actionable strategic recommendations.
- Lead cross-functional collaboration :   Build and lead   a culture of collaboration, innovation, and accountability across all stakeholder groups, partnering with internal and external collaborators to deliver on high-impact strategic   objectives .
- Dive effective communication : Ensure clear and compelling communication of strategy, progress, and priorities to diverse audiences, both internal and external, maintaining transparency and alignment across the organization.
- Navigate complex strategic landscapes : Integrate clinical trial design, competitive dynamics, regulatory environments, and market access considerations to advise strategic prioritization and investment decisions.
- Ensure strategic excellence : Drive clarity and consistency across key strategic processes,   establishing   best practices and   maintaining   thorough standards for analysis, decision-making, and execution.
 
Essential Skills/Experience:

- Education and experience : BA/BS and 10 years of experience   with   focus in life science programs , consulting ,   equity research   OR MS/MBA and 8+ years of experience OR PhD or MD and 5+ years of experience
- Oncology   expertise : Deep understanding of Oncology Therapeutic Area Strategy which may include a specific disease area and/or platform technologies, with proven experience   contributing to strategic planning and portfolio decisions
- Executive presence and leadership : Ability to interact and communicate effectively with senior executive teams, with demonstrated ability to lead and influence experienced professionals in a fast-paced, highly matrixed work environment
- Strategic   and impact oriented :   Demonstrates   critical and creative thinking,   anticipates   and solves problems with rigorous, fact - based analysis, and thrives in a fast - paced environment ,   bringing agility and adaptability to deliver outcomes with clear societal impact.

Preferred Skills/Experience:

- Deep Scientific Expertise : PhD in life sciences ,   MD
- Consulting, VC, equity, or finance experience:   Background in management consulting, venture capital, private equity, or finance with   demonstrated   ability to   conduct rigorous financial and strategic analyses to inform investment and portfolio decisions   is strongly preferred
- Strategic planning   expertise : Experience in strategic planning processes and tools, with ability to translate business needs into coordinated plans and develop creative solutions to complex problems
- Deep pharmaceutical knowledge : Understanding of pharmaceutical R&D business including clinical trial design, drug development processes, regulatory dynamics, and pricing landscapes in major markets
- Consultative leadership : Strong analytical and communication skills combined with effective interpersonal abilities to build trust, influence without authority, and drive alignment across senior cross-functional teams
- Financial acumen : Strong financial background and understanding of forecasts, budgets, and financial tools to support strategic decision-making
- Global perspective : Ability to work across global teams and priorities delivering operational effectiveness and prioritization in a fast-growing, highly matrixed organization
 
Office Working Requirements

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.
 
The annual base pay for this position ranges from $270,222 to $405,332. Our positions offer eligibility for various incentives—an opportunity to receive short-term incentive bonuses, equity-based awards for salaried roles and commissions for sales roles. Benefits offered include qualified retirement programs, paid time off (i.e., vacation, holiday, and leaves), as well as health, dental, and vision coverage   in accordance with   the terms of the applicable plans.
 
This role offers the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on patients' lives by shaping the future of oncology innovation at AstraZeneca. If   you're   ready to apply your strategic   expertise   and leadership to help us achieve our ambitious goals, we encourage you to apply.

Date Posted
02-Sep-2026

Closing Date
29-Sep-2026
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.