Global AI Innovation Lead

Be empowered to be innovative and creative where difference is valued
Join a place built on innovation and creativity. Where different views and perspectives are welcomed and valued. An environment that champions inclusion, and teams that reflect the diversity of the communities that we serve.
It propels each of us forward, harnessing our differences to unlock challenges and bring new solutions. Unleash your curiosity and entrepreneurial spirit to uncover new insights that challenge conventions.
Here we are forever pushing the boundaries as we feel comfortable spotting opportunities, making quick decisions and taking sensible risks
This role focusses on the development and leadership of externally focused AI innovation capabilities and processes. On behalf of R&D, leading a small team (1-2 people) and large network of volunteers to define areas of focus where AI innovation is required, and engage with the external network of start-ups and commercial vendors to attract, develop and deploy innovative solutions creating value that otherwise would not have been possible.
Typical Responsibilities
Lead a DS&AI central program (Center of Excellence) for externally focused AI innovation capabilities and processes, on behalf of R&D
Work with AZ AI subject matter experts (SMEs) and vendors to understand AI trends
Reflect the R&D data and AI strategic direction for future capability needs to the external AI innovation ecosystem
Develop, execute and refine an AI playbook for R&D
Work with AI experts to evaluate external solution providers for fit to R&D AI capability needs
Secure engagement from R&D stakeholders to the process and to invest in solution providers
Create and execute innovative business models that meet the needs of both R&D and solution providers
Monitor a portfolio of projects initiated under the AI playbook process, reporting on value
Excite the external ecosystem of start-ups, vendors, peer-organizations, demonstrating that AZ is a partner of choice
Establish external and internal networks to ensure identification and capture of relevant opportunities. Attend relevant external meetings and conferences to search for and identify opportunities
Manage a team to deliver the above, gaining commitment where volunteer task-force delivery is required

People management (direct/indirect reports)
Up to 30, matrix manager
Up to 1-2 direct reports

Essential
Experience in leading multiple, large, international, multi-functional project teams of senior professionals.
Broad knowledge of pharmaceutical business, process and activities
Knowledge of deal structures and legal principles
Experience working with start-up
Extensive experience in Business Strategy and Portfolio within a pharmaceutical or clinical background
Strong analytical skills and ability to ascertain the relevant issues from large masses of information.
Strong interpersonal and team leadership skills
Experience and effectiveness in the presentation of written and oral business cases to the most senior AZ Management.
Numerate and having financial literacy
Proven negotiation skills and experience of working in an intense deal environment.
Gravitas and experience to create a positive relationship with third parties as an AZ Ambassador.

Desirable
Masters degree, e.g. MBA
Expert reputation within the business and industry
Knowledge of AI concepts
Knowledge of R&D principles and processes
Good knowledge of disease areas, and drug development activities and commercial processes and especially within AZ. Existing deep scientific knowledge and an established external network in a relevant therapy area is an advantage

Why AstraZeneca?
At AstraZeneca when we see an opportunity for change, we seize it and make it happen, because any opportunity no matter how small, can be the start of something big. Delivering life-changing medicines is about being entrepreneurial - finding those moments and recognizing their potential.
Join us on our journey of building a new kind of organization to reset expectations of what a bio-pharmaceutical company can be. This means we’re opening new ways to work, pioneering cutting edge methods and bringing unexpected teams together. Interested? Come and join our journey.
So, what’s next?
Are you ready to bring new ideas and fresh thinking to the table? Brilliant! We have one seat available and we hope it’s yours.
Where can I find out more?
Our Social Media, Follow AstraZeneca on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/1603/
Follow AstraZeneca on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/astrazenecacareers/
Follow AstraZeneca on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/astrazeneca_careers/?hl=en