Head of Operations, AI for Science and Innovation

AstraZeneca • Gaithersburg, MD

3d • $200,799 - $301,199 • Hybrid

About The Position

We're building a connected, end-to-end Enterprise AI engine - uniting data foundations, AI technology, process reinvention, and business-facing AI to accelerate results across the whole value chain. Success depends on being exceptional connectors: you'll actively leverage existing capabilities, celebrate and promote reuse, export breakthrough ideas across geographies and functions, and obsess over scaling impact rather than building in isolation. If you thrive in high-collaboration environments where your role is to turn complex, cross-functional problems into reusable, enterprise-wide capabilities - and where the measure of success is adoption and scale, not just innovation - you'll have the platform (and sponsorship) to make it real. At AstraZeneca, the AI for Science Innovation function accelerates our ability to design, develop, and scale AI‑powered solutions that advance scientific discovery and enable smarter, more effective R&D pipelines. We partner across functions, markets, and scientific domains to create integrated capabilities, ensure operational consistency, and empower teams to deliver high‑quality innovation at speed and scale. As the Head of Operations, AI for Science and Innovation you are responsible for the smooth, efficient, and high‑performing day‑to‑day functioning of the AI for Science Innovation organization. You will oversee operational processes, business administration, performance tracking, leadership communications, and organizational governance. You will also lead a central operations team—including business administrators—responsible for enabling organizational continuity, transparency, and operational discipline across all areas. This role will be accountable for ensuring efficient and optimized coordination of activities across programs, projects, springs, and special initiatives across AI for Science Innovation. This role ensures that the AI for Science Innovation team has the foundations, tools, processes, and visibility required to execute effectively and deliver impact.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree.
• 10+ years of relevant experience in operations within the pharmaceutical, healthcare, technology, or scientific innovation sectors.
• Proven experience in operational leadership supporting complex technical or scientific organizations.
• Experience overseeing performance management, reporting, portfolio visibility, and business administration.
• Ability to build strong operational structures and drive clarity in fast‑moving, ambiguous environments.
• Experience working with senior leaders (VP level and above).
• Strong leadership, coaching, and team‑building capabilities.
• Understanding of scientific, digital, or AI‑enabled innovation environments.
• Excellent communication and organizational skills.
• Results‑oriented with a focus on operational excellence and continuous improvement.
• High integrity, sound judgment, and an ability to navigate complex global environments.

Responsibilities

• Lead and optimize the day‑to‑day operations of the AI for Science Innovation team.
• Build and manage a central operations team for portfolio delivery and functional performance.
• Maintain operational rhythms, including leadership meetings, organizational performance reviews, and governance routines.
• Oversee performance measurement frameworks, dashboards, and KPIs.
• Ensure timely and accurate reporting for leadership and stakeholders.
• Maintain visibility of the portfolio, priorities, resource allocation, and milestone progress.
• Support operational execution of major initiatives within the portfolio.
• Manage project tracking practices including risk management, issue escalation, and operational dependencies.
• Facilitate alignment across global, regional, and functional teams.
• Continuously refine operational processes to increase efficiency and accountability.
• Embed consistent ways of working, documentation standards, and organizational clarity.
• Support onboarding, capability-building, and knowledge‑management practices.
• Manage the operational budget, including allocation, forecasting, and spend tracking.
• Partner with finance and functional leaders to optimize resource planning.
• Oversee operational management of external vendors, contractors, and partners.
• Ensure effective onboarding, performance tracking, and compliance of external contributors.
• Provide operational support to the AI for Science Innovation Leadership Team.
• Prepare materials, briefings, and reporting packages.
• Build strong cross‑functional relationships to support alignment and problem solving.

Benefits

• qualified retirement program [401(k) plan]
• paid vacation and holidays
• paid leaves
• health benefits including medical, prescription drug, dental, and vision coverage

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior