Head of Global Strategic and Scientific Partnerships - Vaccines Research and Development

Sanofi•Waltham, MA

1d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Head of Global Strategic and Scientific Partnerships will define and execute the external innovation strategy for Sanofi's vaccine pipeline. This role involves identifying and integrating breakthrough science and technologies, and building strategic alliances to position Sanofi as a leader in vaccine innovation. The company delivers over 500 million vaccine doses annually and is committed to exploring new technologies to protect global health. This position is currently in Project Status, with potential for scope evolution. The Scientific & Strategic Partnerships team is central to Sanofi's vaccine innovation strategy, comprising scientists, business development professionals, and strategic thinkers focused on advancing global health. The role reports to the Head of Vaccines R&D and is a member of the Vaccines R&D Leadership Team (VRDLT), contributing to strategic decisions and portfolio priorities. The position also involves leading and developing the Scientific & Strategic Partnerships team.

Requirements

PhD, MD/PhD, or MD in Immunology, Microbiology, Infectious Diseases, Vaccinology, or related field; MBA or executive business education strongly preferred
Extensive experience in vaccine research, immunology, or infectious diseases with proven ability to evaluate scientific merit and translational potential
Strong track record in partnerships, business development, licensing, or external innovation within the biopharmaceutical industry
Demonstrated success in negotiating and executing strategic partnerships, in-licensing agreements, or technology acquisitions that created measurable pipeline value
Senior leadership experience managing cross-functional teams in matrixed global organizations
Proven expertise in securing external funding from government agencies, foundations, or international organizations
Strategic and entrepreneurial leader with deep scientific curiosity, exceptional negotiation skills, and executive presence

Nice To Haves

Experience engaging with European and global health organizations (WHO, GAVI, CEPI, BMGF) is highly valued

Responsibilities

Identify and evaluate promising external science and technologies from around the world
Build strategic partnerships with leading academic institutions, biotech companies, and global health organizations
Secure external funding to accelerate vaccine development
Integrate external innovations into Sanofi's vaccine pipeline
Shape the future of pandemic preparedness and global health security
Develop and implement a comprehensive external innovation and partnership strategy aligned with Vaccines R&D portfolio priorities
Drive measurable pipeline value through strategic licensing, co-development agreements, and technology acquisitions that strengthen competitive positioning
Lead scientific and strategic evaluation of external opportunities, coordinating cross-functional due diligence and providing clear go/no-go recommendations
Build and maintain strategic relationships with academic institutions, biotech companies, government agencies, and global health organizations across Europe and globally
Identify and secure external funding opportunities including BARDA, CEPI, NIH, Horizon Europe, and other public-private partnerships
Represent Sanofi in pandemic preparedness programs, policy discussions, and industry consortia at the highest levels
Ensure seamless integration of external partnerships into R&D processes in close collaboration with Business Development and cross-functional teams
Lead and develop the Scientific & Strategic Partnerships team, fostering a high-performance culture focused on accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement