We are seeking a Director of Search & Evaluation to lead strategic sourcing and evaluation of external innovation opportunities in the Haematology therapeutic area. Embedded within the Therapeutic Area Leadership Team (TALT), this position will identify and advance high-potential assets from preclinical through Phase 1 clinical stages, shape early partnering strategies, and drive transactions in collaboration with Business Development.
To be hybrid-based onsite (3 days a week) at one of our R&D hub sites: Zurich (CH), Maidenhead (UK), Waltham (US), King of Prussia (US). This position cannot be held remotely.
Main Responsibilities & Accountabilities
- Serve as the senior Early S&E leader within the TALT, influencing therapeutic strategy and ensuring external innovation priorities are integrated into portfolio planning.
- Lead proactive sourcing and scouting efforts for preclinical and Phase 1 assets, building a robust pipeline of opportunities aligned with TA strategy.
- Co-lead internal meetings (with Late Search Lead) focused on evaluating and prioritizing New Product Opportunities (NPOs) within Haematology. NPO meetings are strategic checkpoints where cross-functional teams review potential assets identified by Search and decide whether to advance them for further due diligence and deal negotiations.
- Develop and execute early partnering strategies, including onboarding approaches and competitive positioning for priority assets.
- Drive cross-functional due diligence for each opportunity, coordinating scientific, clinical, regulatory, and commercial assessments to inform governance decisions.
- Transaction Execution: Partner closely with BD and Regional Ecosystem Leads to advance high-priority opportunities through negotiation and deal close, ensuring seamless handoff and execution.
- Represent the TA externally, leading sourcing activities at specialized conferences and cultivating relationships with biotech, academia, and investment communities.
Qualifications & Experience Requirements
- Significant tenure in biopharma with significant experience in external innovation, search & evaluation, or business development.
- Advanced degree required (PhD, MD, or equivalent).
- Must have deep scientific expertise in Haematology.
- Proven track record of leading due diligence and closing early-stage deals.
- Strong network within biotech, academia, and pharma BD organizations.
