BPMM-0, Head of Strategy, Quality and Operation

The businesses of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany•Billerica, MA

16d•$237,300 - $355,900

About The Position

The Senior Director, Global Head of CMS Strategy, Quality & Operations is a strategic and operational partner to the Head of Clinical Measurement Sciences (CMS) and the CMS Leadership Team. The role advances integrated CMS strategy, strengthens quality and compliance, and enables effective day-to-day operations across the global organization. As a member of the CMS Leadership Team, the position connects strategic priorities across CMS functions, supports timely decision-making, and translates the organization’s vision into consistent execution. The role leads a global team, represents CMS in cross-functional R&D forums, and helps evolve an operating model that supports efficient, compliant, high-quality delivery of R&D commitments. This is a high-impact leadership role for an experienced pharmaceutical R&D professional combining scientific understanding, strategic judgment, operational discipline, and inclusive leadership. The position does not offer work authorization sponsorship; external applicants must be eligible to work in the United States. Domestic and international travel of up to 20% is required.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree and at least 10 years of relevant professional experience, or a master’s degree and at least 8 years of relevant professional experience.
At least 8 years of direct experience in project management, portfolio management, operations, or a related discipline, including leadership responsibility.
Extensive experience in pharmaceutical R&D, drug development, healthcare, or a closely related environment.
Experience working in the global pharmaceutical industry and across international, cross-functional teams.
Working knowledge of the drug development process and applicable development regulations.
Demonstrated experience leading strategic initiatives, operational improvements, or organizational change.
Strong written, verbal, listening, and presentation skills.
Ability to collaborate effectively with senior stakeholders and influence without direct authority.
Willingness and ability to travel domestically and internationally up to 20% of the time.

Nice To Haves

MBA or PhD in life sciences, business, or a related discipline.
Professional project management certification, such as PMI or IPMA.
Experience leading global teams in drug development or a related pharmaceutical R&D setting.
Experience with portfolio governance, quality management, process harmonization, or operational excellence.
Experience using project management, spreadsheet, database, and data-analysis tools.
Understanding of finance and accounting principles in an industrial or pharmaceutical setting.
Demonstrated empathy and a strong commitment to team culture, inclusion, and collaboration.

Responsibilities

Lead, develop, and inspire a global team aligned with CMS strategy and a culture of collaboration, accountability, and high performance.
Partner with the Head of CMS to shape and refine the CMS scientific and functional strategy.
Establish and continuously improve quality and compliance practices to support regulatory adherence and operational effectiveness.
Drive streamlined processes, effective workflows, and appropriate resource allocation across CMS in partnership with Human Resources, Finance, and functional leaders.
Support budget planning, milestone oversight, prioritization, and operational reviews across relevant CMS activities.
Coordinate and oversee CMS Asset Portfolio meetings, CMS Scientific Strategy initiatives, and the CMS PACT team community, as applicable.
Provide oversight of CMS innovation activities and support related strategic initiatives.
Serve as a strategic thought partner and day-to-day advisor to members of the CMS Leadership Team.
Align leadership priorities, coordinate cross-functional activities, and promote effective stakeholder communication.
Lead preparation of strategic presentations, data analyses, and insights to support high-impact decisions.
Translate CMS priorities into clear actions, milestones, and accountable ownership.
Represent CMS in cross-R&D strategic forums and the Chiefs of Staff network.
Serve on relevant enterprise councils, including the Development Excellence Council and the Operational Excellence Leadership Team, as assigned.
Advance compliant, efficient, and harmonized development processes with cross-functional partners.
Work with Business Process Owners to maintain effective and efficient CMS business processes.
Promote quality improvement, knowledge sharing, and adoption of effective practices across the organization.
Champion a OneTeam mindset grounded in openness, transparency, collaboration, and alignment with strategic priorities.
Lead change initiatives that strengthen engagement, organizational adaptability, and ways of working.
Support impactful internal communications and engagement activities across CMS.
Identify opportunities to simplify processes and improve the employee experience while maintaining appropriate controls.