Head of Strategy & Operations Medicine

Are you a strategic leader with a passion and gravitas for driving operational excellence in healthcare? We’re looking for a Head of Strategy & Operations to lead high-impact initiatives with dynamism across our Medicine function in the UK & Ireland.

 

Why This Role Matters

 

As a key member of the Medical Leadership Team, you will be at the forefront of shaping and executing our medical strategy. You’ll lead high-impact initiatives, embed governance excellence, lead cross-functional programmes and ensure seamless excellence in execution that span the full product lifecycle. Acting as a trusted delegate to the Medical Director, you’ll influence at the highest levels and bring momentum to strategic priorities—navigating ambiguity with confidence, grace and credibility.

This is a unique opportunity to lead in a complex, fast-paced environment where your strategic insight and collaborative mindset will directly impact patient outcomes.

 

Key Responsibilities

 

•    Strategic Leadership: Scope, lead, and deliver strategic projects across the full product lifecycle, from early pipeline to post-launch.
•    Governance & Process Excellence: Drive the implementation of robust governance frameworks and steer critical business processes (e.g., IAP, ICP).
•    Operational Execution: Facilitate high-impact leadership meetings (e.g., MLT, Medicine Exchange), ensuring clear outcomes and follow-through.
•    Cross-Functional Collaboration: Align internal stakeholders and external partners to deliver on strategic imperatives.
•    Capability Building: Champion execution excellence by mentoring and coaching key stakeholders across Medicine.
•    Resource & Financial Planning: Support evidence-based prioritisation and resource allocation through financial and performance analysis.

 

What You Bring

 

•    Demonstrated experience in strategy development, complex problem-solving, and cross-functional programme leadership—ideally within the pharmaceutical or life sciences sector.
•    Strong commercial & analytical acumen, with the ability to distil complexity into actionable insights.
•    High emotional intelligence and the ability to lead and influence.
•    Gravitas and credibility to engage senior stakeholders and drive alignment in a matrixed environment.
•    Deep understanding of the UK & Ireland healthcare and pharmaceutical landscape.
•    Experience in medical programme management or field force execution is a strong advantage.