Development Head, Rheumatology - Inflammation & Immunology (I&I)

Position Summary

The Development Head, Rheumatology will be a pivotal leader within Pfizer’s Research & Development Inflammation & Immunology (I&I) Division, reporting to the Chief Development Officer for I&I. This role will set and execute a compelling vision for Rheumatology, driving the development of groundbreaking therapies and shaping the overall strategy. The leader will oversee end-to-end clinical program performance, including protocol development and robust trial execution, while building a world-class pipeline from internal and external sources. As part of the I&I leadership team, the Development Head will provide strategic direction, foster cross-functional collaboration, and mentor a high-performing global Development team. The successful candidate will be a hands-on thought leader with deep expertise in rheumatology and clinical development, committed to delivering patient-focused, data-driven innovation. This position is based in Cambridge, Massachusetts.

Key responsibilities include:

• Strategic Oversight & Vision: Shape and drive the strategic direction for I&I clinical programs in Rheumatology. As a member of the I&I Development leadership team, is a critical part and driver of the overall I&I strategy and Development leadership.
• Team Leadership & Culture: Inspire, mentor, and develop the program and clinical leaders in Rheumatology, fostering an environment of innovation, accountability, and continuous learning, while championing Pfizer’s commitment to patient-centricity, entrepreneurial thinking, and data-driven excellence.
• Clinical Programs: Drive the adoption of innovative trial designs to enhance clinical impact and accelerate value creation. Accountable for the planning and performance of all clinical programs in Rheumatology from Phase 1 onwards to live cycle management.
• External Engagement: Act as a visible ambassador for Rheumatology at Pfizer at scientific conferences articulating the Company’s vision and cultivating strong relationships with KOLs, CROs, academic collaborators, and regulatory stakeholders.
• Cross-Functional Partnership: Work cross-functionally with Medical Affairs, Regulatory, Safety, Operations, and Business Development and the Commercial organization to align and integrate clinical strategies and standards across the I&I portfolio.
• Industry Foresight: Continuously scan and interpret the evolving scientific and competitive landscape, leveraging emerging technologies and disruptive trends to inform and evolve Pfizer’s clinical strategy in I&I.

Requirements:

• M.D. with at least 10 years’ experience leading development rheumatology clinical trials including early and late projects, including submissions.
• Proven success in I&I clinical project/program leadership.
• Deep understanding of I&I drug development, protocol writing, study conduct, data analysis, and regulatory submissions.
• Strong leadership and interpersonal skills, with demonstrated ability to manage and mentor teams and collaborate with diverse stakeholders in oncology.
• Experience with global I&I regulatory submissions and interactions with major regulatory agencies.
• Demonstrated experience engaging with CROs, KOLs, regulatory authorities, and the broader I&I research community.
• Track record of leveraging data, technology, and innovative approaches to scale clinical operations and deliver value for patients.

Work Location Assignment:  This is a hybrid role requiring you to live within commuting distance and work on-site an average of 2.5 days per week.

The annual base salary for this position ranges from $308,600.00 to $514,400.00. In addition, this position is eligible for participation in Pfizer’s Global Performance Plan with a bonus target of 30.0% of the base salary and eligibility to participate in our share based long term incentive program. We offer comprehensive and generous benefits and programs to help our colleagues lead healthy lives and to support each of life’s moments. Benefits offered include a 401(k) plan with Pfizer Matching Contributions and an additional Pfizer Retirement Savings Contribution, paid vacation, holiday and personal days, paid caregiver/parental and medical leave, and health benefits to include medical, prescription drug, dental and vision coverage. Learn more at Pfizer Candidate Site – U.S. Benefits | (uscandidates.mypfizerbenefits.com). Pfizer compensation structures and benefit packages are aligned based on the location of hire. The United States salary range provided does not apply to Tampa, FL or any location outside of the United States.

Relocation assistance may be available based on business n