US Head of Medical, COPD

AstraZeneca•Wilmington, DE

6d•Hybrid

About The Position

Introduction to role At AstraZeneca, teams work across global boundaries to make an impact and find answers to complex challenges. This role sits at the heart of that mission, combining scientific depth with strategic leadership to advance care in chronic respiratory disease. As US Head of Medical, COPD, this position owns the medical strategy and execution for a novel Interleukin-33 targeting monoclonal antibody, crafting both product and disease area direction across the full lifecycle. Reporting directly to the VP Medical Respiratory, Immunology, Vaccines and Immune Therapies (R&I), this leader will guide a high-performing team, drive launches, and influence how evidence, access and clinical practice come together to transform outcomes for patients living with COPD and severe lower respiratory tract disease. Ready to steer a first-in-class biologic and redefine what’s possible in respiratory medicine? Accountabilities Lead and grow the COPD US medical team, setting clear vision, priorities and standards for excellence in disease area and brand strategy and execution. Develop and deliver coordinated medical strategies and plans for COPD and related indications, ensuring alignment with global medical, US commercial and market access partners. Develop and implement Transforming Healthcare initiatives that shape the biologics market in COPD, severe LRTD and adjacent areas, using evidence and insight to influence clinical practice and care pathways. Own disease area and brand medical budgets and resource planning, ensuring optimal allocation to high-impact activities across the lifecycle. Co-lead the COPD Core Value Team with Commercial and Market Access leaders, connecting strategy, science, access and execution to deliver a cohesive launch plan. Continuously assess and communicate the competitive landscape, translating insights into differentiated positioning and tactical plans. Act as the primary US medical point of contact for the Global Product Team (GPT), providing strategic input on lifecycle management, phase IV strategy and study design. Partner with evidence generation teams to define and execute real-world evidence programs that address US clinical, payer and policy needs. Build and sustain positive relationships with external authorities, professional societies, patient groups and key internal stakeholders to inform strategy and amplify scientific leadership. Serve as a medical spokesperson for COPD in response to media inquiries when required, ensuring accurate, balanced and compliant communication. Coach, mentor and develop direct reports, actively leading succession, talent development and engagement within the team. Nurture a culture that values scientific rigor, teamwork, innovation and recognition, while maintaining full compliance with AstraZeneca policies and external regulations.

Requirements

Sophisticated Scientific Degree (MBBS, PharmD, PhD, or MD) or equivalent education
A Minimum of 7 years of experience in the pharmaceutical industry, ideally in Medical Affairs, working at the country and global/regional level
Medical/clinical/scientific expertise in Respiratory Disease
Experienced team leader, with a track record of establishing high performance teams
Demonstrated track record delivering results in a sophisticated matrix environment, building capabilities, and leading impactful medical initiatives.
Experience launching a new product
US Regulatory Strategy Knowledge including product approval, label requirements/ negotiation
Consistent track record to collaborate and build internal and external networks
Strong intuition for business, with comprehensive understanding of the U.S. healthcare environment

Nice To Haves

Leadership experience in US Medical Affairs for respiratory biologics or other specialty therapeutics.
Direct involvement in major US product launches in COPD or related respiratory indications.
Experience crafting or overseeing real-world evidence programs passionate about payer needs and healthcare system impact.
Background working closely with field medical teams and external authorities to develop standards of care.
Track record influencing cross-functional investment decisions using medical insights and data.

Responsibilities

Lead and grow the COPD US medical team, setting clear vision, priorities and standards for excellence in disease area and brand strategy and execution.
Develop and deliver coordinated medical strategies and plans for COPD and related indications, ensuring alignment with global medical, US commercial and market access partners.
Develop and implement Transforming Healthcare initiatives that shape the biologics market in COPD, severe LRTD and adjacent areas, using evidence and insight to influence clinical practice and care pathways.
Own disease area and brand medical budgets and resource planning, ensuring optimal allocation to high-impact activities across the lifecycle.
Co-lead the COPD Core Value Team with Commercial and Market Access leaders, connecting strategy, science, access and execution to deliver a cohesive launch plan.
Continuously assess and communicate the competitive landscape, translating insights into differentiated positioning and tactical plans.
Act as the primary US medical point of contact for the Global Product Team (GPT), providing strategic input on lifecycle management, phase IV strategy and study design.
Partner with evidence generation teams to define and execute real-world evidence programs that address US clinical, payer and policy needs.
Build and sustain positive relationships with external authorities, professional societies, patient groups and key internal stakeholders to inform strategy and amplify scientific leadership.
Serve as a medical spokesperson for COPD in response to media inquiries when required, ensuring accurate, balanced and compliant communication.
Coach, mentor and develop direct reports, actively leading succession, talent development and engagement within the team.
Nurture a culture that values scientific rigor, teamwork, innovation and recognition, while maintaining full compliance with AstraZeneca policies and external regulations.