Associate Director, Research Strategy Development And Internal Consulting Are you looking for a patient-focused, innovation-driven company that will inspire you and empower you to shine? Join us as an Associate Director, Research Strategy Development and Internal Consulting in our Cambridge office. At Takeda, we are transforming the pharmaceutical industry through our R&D-driven market leadership and being a values-led company. To do this, we empower our people to realize their potential through life-changing work. Certified as a Global Top Employer, we offer stimulating careers, encourage innovation, and strive for excellence in everything we do. We foster an inclusive, collaborative workplace, in which our global teams are united by an unwavering commitment to deliver Better Health and a Brighter Future to people around the world. Here, you will be a vital contributor to our inspiring, bold mission. Objective / Purpose: The Research Strategy and Operations function will support planning, organizing and controlling integrating scientific acumen with business analytics and processes to deliver clear business plans, operational excellence and portfolio progression for the Takeda Research pipeline. The Associate Director, Strategy Development is a critical member of our internal consulting team. This will interface with top leadership across R&D and is critical in shaping and executing our research strategy, as well as providing strategic guidance and support to senior leadership on key business decisions, including portfolio management, resource allocation, and investment strategies. This position requires a deep understanding of the pharmaceutical industry, strong analytical and problem-solving skills, and the ability to effectively communicate complex concepts to diverse audiences. Accountabilities: Be part of a team that partners with Research Senior Leadership in prioritizing and addressing strategic initiatives and complex challenges. Implements research strategies that are aligned with the organization's long-term goals and objectives. Conducts comprehensive market analysis to identify emerging trends, assess the competitive landscape and pinpoint potential opportunities for research to inform strategic decision-making. Builds and maintains strategic partnerships with external stakeholders such as research institutions, universities, and industry experts to foster collaboration, leverage external expertise, access funding opportunities, and enhance the organization's research capabilities. Applies a strong business mindset to drive strategic decision making. Identifies and evaluates new research opportunities, technologies, and partnerships to drive innovation and enhance the company's competitive advantage. Collaborates with cross-functional teams to define research priorities, allocate resources effectively, and ensure the timely execution of projects. Analyzes and assesses Research programs and technology platforms in a competitive context to guide strategic planning. Identifies new growth opportunities and evaluates build/buy/partner scenarios, along with other special projects, to achieve business goals. Maintains in-depth knowledge of specific scientific topics, disease areas, and asset classes, and continuously updates competitive intelligence to ensure visibility to emerging opportunities and changes in the competitive landscape. Education & Competencies: Expected 5 years related experience in the pharmaceutical industry, with expertise in drug discovery, Takeda therapeutic areas 2 years experience at a top tier consulting firm preferred Advanced degree (Ph.D., M.D., or equivalent) in a scientific discipline preferred Proven ability to respectfully challenge and influence senior leaders Strong knowledge of drug discovery and development processes, including preclinical and clinical research Expertise in competitive portfolio landscapes in Takeda therapeutic areas Demonstrated leadership skills with the ability to provide strategic direction and drive results Strong project management and organizational skills Strong communication and interpersonal skills to effectively collaborate with cross-functional teams Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to synthesize complex information and make data-driven decisions Strategic mindset and the ability to think critically and creatively to drive innovation and business growth Takeda is proud in its commitment to creating a diverse workforce and providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, parental status, national origin, age, disability, citizenship status, genetic information or characteristics, marital status, status as a Vietnam era veteran, special disabled veteran, or other protected veteran in accordance with applicable federal, state and local laws, and any other characteristic protected by law. This position is currently classified as "hybrid" in accordance with Takeda's Hybrid and Remote Work policy.