Executive Director Medical Clinical Operations
About The Position
As the Executive Director, Medical Operations – External Research at BioNTech, you will be responsible for all BioNTech-funded external research activities across multiple regions and therapeutic areas. You will shape global frameworks, standards, and governance for external research, contributing to impactful evidence generation aligned with strategic goals. This role involves working closely with cross-functional teams and senior leadership to drive innovation in medical operations while ensuring compliance and excellence. The position is part of a dynamic environment where expertise influences the global portfolio of investigator-initiated studies (IIS), collaborative research studies (CRS), and post-marketing programs, directly impacting the ability to address unmet medical needs and improve health outcomes worldwide.
Requirements
- Advanced degree in life sciences or health-related disciplines (e.g., MD, PharmD, PhD) preferred; bachelor’s degree with extensive relevant experience also considered.
- Extensive experience (12–15+ years) in clinical research or Medical Affairs within biopharma or academic settings.
- Proven track record in managing large-scale multinational study portfolios including IIS and RWE programs.
- Strong leadership skills in matrix organizations; ability to influence without direct line authority.
- Deep knowledge of ICH GCP guidelines, regulatory standards, and ethical compliance requirements.
- Exceptional negotiation abilities with academic institutions and vendors at a global level.
- Strategic mindset paired with financial acumen for budget ownership and scenario analysis.
Responsibilities
- Lead the strategy, prioritization, and management of BioNTech’s global external research portfolio across IIS, CRS, Phase IV/PASS programs.
- Collaborate with Medical Affairs, Clinical Development, Market Access, and Commercial teams to define and execute a multi-year cross-indication external research strategy.
- Establish global standards for external research processes and governance while driving harmonization across regions.
- Ensure efficient and compliant execution of external research programs by leading cross-functional project teams.
- Develop robust financial frameworks for forecasting, milestone payments, and resource utilization aligned with corporate priorities.
- Drive strategic initiatives such as improving governance models and building data/RWE platforms.
Benefits
- Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance
- Life, AD&D, Critical Illness Insurance
- Pre-tax HSA & FSA, DCRA Spending Accounts
- Employee Assistance & Concierge Program (EAP) available 24/7
- Parental and Childbirth Leave & Family Planning Assistance
- Sitterstream: Virtual Tutoring & Childcare Membership
- Paid Time Off: Vacation, Sick, Bereavement, Holidays (including Floating) & Year-End U.S. Shutdown.
- 401(K) Plan with Company Match
- Tuition Reimbursement & Student Loan Assistance Programs
- Wellbeing Incentive Platforms & Incentives
- Professional Development Programs
- Commuting Allowance and subsidized parking
- Discounted Home, Auto & Pet Insurance
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Executive
Education Level
Ph.D. or professional degree
