Senior Director, Clinical Projects

Job Title - Senior Director, Clinical Projects

Location - Boston, MA

AstraZeneca is a global, science-led, patient-focused biopharmaceutical company that focuses on the discovery, development, and commercialisation of prescription medicines for some of the world’s most serious diseases. But we’re more than one of the world’s leading pharmaceutical companies.

At AZ, we’re proud to have an exceptional workplace culture that encourages innovation and collaboration. Here, employees are empowered to express diverse perspectives – and made to feel valued, energized and rewarded for their ideas and creativity. AZ is a place where passionate people can immerse themselves in their work and make significant contributions to scientific excellence and medicines – does this describe a place where you would like to work?

The Senior Director of Clinical Projects drives strategic change and improvement initiatives across BioPharma Clinical Operations and the broader enterprise. Reporting to the Executive Director, Portfolio and Enabling Functions, this role offers an exciting opportunity to lead high-impact projects that will shape the future of our business.   

Typical Accountabilities 

• Work independently to identify and pursue targeted opportunities for business improvement 

• Lead and inspire cross-functional teams to solve complex business challenges 

• Provide project leadership, developing comprehensive project plans, timelines, and resource requirements 

• Conduct in-depth analysis of current state business processes and performance metrics 

• Define and articulate future state solutions that align with organizational goals 

• Leverage data-driven insights and business expertise to inform decision-making 

• Oversee the implementation of future state solutions, ensuring smooth transitions 

• Report progress and outcomes to senior leadership, providing clear and concise updates 

• Manage project budgets and resources effectively, ensuring optimal allocation and utilization 

• Partner closely with subject matter experts (SMEs) across the business to drive collaborative solutions 

• Coach and mentor team members, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and innovation 

• Manage and develop teams of associate staff, as required 

Essential Skills:

• 10+ years of relevant experience  

• University degree required; advanced degree preferred 

• Experience in the pharmaceutical industry 

• Proven track record of successfully leading large-scale transformation projects 

• Strong strategic thinking skills with the ability to translate business goals into actionable plans 

• Extensive experience leading and motivating project teams 

• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex topics clearly to diverse audiences 

• Demonstrated ability to work independently and drive results 

Desirable Skills:

• Consulting experience, particularly in business transformation or strategy 

• Project management certification (e.g., PMP, PRINCE2) 

• Lean Six Sigma certification or extensive experience with other process improvement methodologies 

“When we put unexpected teams in the same room, we