Regional External Innovation Lead

CSL

22h•Hybrid

About The Position

CSL's R&D organization is accelerating innovation to deliver greater impact for patients. With a project-led structure and a focus on collaboration, we’re building a future-ready team that thrives in dynamic biotech ecosystems. Joining CSL now means being part of an agile team committed to developing therapies that make a meaningful difference worldwide. Could you be our next Regional External Innovation and Due Diligence Lead? The job is in our Waltham MA Office. This is a hybrid position and is onsite three days a week. Position Description Summary The Executive Director will lead two critical areas: Due Diligence (DD) and Regional Ecosystem Engagement. This role is responsible for shaping strategies that accelerate external innovation, optimizing due diligence processes across therapeutic areas, and strengthening CSL’s presence in key innovation hubs globally. The ideal candidate combines strategic vision, operational excellence, and deep experience in business development, external partnerships, and emerging technologies.

Requirements

15+ years in biopharma with significant experience in business development, external innovation, and due diligence leadership.
Advanced degree required (PhD, MD, or equivalent).
Proven track record of designing and implementing scalable processes for asset evaluation and deal execution.
Strong understanding of AI-enabled tools and digital solutions for DD and portfolio analytics.
Deep network within biotech, academia, and innovation ecosystems globally.

Responsibilities

Design and implement an optimized DD process emphasizing consistency, speed, and efficiency across all therapeutic areas.
Track progress and performance metrics to ensure effective use of TA and functional resources, driving accountability and transparency.
Identify, assess, and deploy AI-based tools and best practices to enhance DD capabilities, partnering externally to bring cutting-edge solutions into CSL.
Lead a team of Regional Ecosystem Leads embedded in key innovation hubs to represent CSL and source innovation aligned with TA strategies.
Maintain strong local relationships and amplify CSL’s priorities at universities, incubators, accelerators, VCs, and local organizations.
Partner closely with Search TA Leads to conduct regional searches, plan engagements/conferences, and share regional insights.
Organize and represent CSL at local innovation events (e.g., CSL Boston Innovation Day) to strengthen visibility and partnerships.
Support research-related goals through regional engagement including identifying early targets/assets and facilitating collaborations (e.g. the RAI process)
Work closely with Search TA Leads and BD teams as part of deal teams through negotiation and deal close, ensuring seamless handoff and execution.
Contribute to early partnering strategies and onboarding approaches that create competitive advantage for CSL.