Associate Director, R&D HCP Engagement

Associate Director, R&D HCP Engagement CoEThe Associate Director, R&D HCP Engagement CoE is a critical change agent and system implementer responsible for designing the operating model and overseeing the execution of a unified, compliant, and exceptional service model for all Healthcare Professional (HCP) engagement and contracting within R&D. This role will seek to transform an inconsistent process into an audit-ready, "white glove" service, providing necessary direction to a direct report responsible for day-to-day execution. While initially focusing on Medical Affairs, the vision is to cover all R&D HCP engagement over time. This position reports into the Medical Excellence & Operations Vendor and Contracts Management Lead and directly manages the Manager, HCP Engagement Lead. This position will lead the transformation of how Otsuka plans, governs, and executes interactions with healthcare professionals; ensuring all engagements are conducted with the highest standards of integrity, transparency, and efficiency while enabling scientific collaboration and knowledge exchange across regions.Key Responsibilities Include:Process Design and ImplementationSet the vision and operational roadmap for the HCP Engagement CoE, acting as the primary change agent to transform the fragmented HCP engagement process into a unified, compliant, and efficient service modelLead the end-to-end design and implementation of the centralized HCP engagement and contracting system (e.g., leveraging iHub and Veeva), ensuring the system architecture supports both operational excellence and stringent compliance standardsDrive the continuous identification of gaps and the necessary innovation of the CoE's processes, championing the use of technology and AI to support workflow improvement across Medical Affairs and R&DTeam Leadership and Operational OversightDirectly manage, coach, and develop the Manager, HCP Engagement Lead, overseeing their performance, workload, and adherence to newly implemented process standards and protocolsProvide operational oversight for tracking the entire HCP engagement process, ensuring the Manager accurately monitors performance and proactively identifies and resolves systemic process bottlenecksDesign and enforce the framework for a robust feedback loop with internal stakeholders (e.g., Sourcing, Finance, Compliance) and external experts, ensuring the CoE service model evolves based on customer needs and reputational impactDevelop and implement a comprehensive training and certification program for all internal stakeholders involved in HCP engagementGovernance, Compliance, and Audit ReadinessServe as the primary point of accountability for global oversight of HCP interactions, ensuring compliance with internal policies, legal requirements, and industry codes (e.g., PhRMA, EFPIA)Establish the governance structure for HCP engagement to ensure all contracting elements and fair market value (FMV) determinations are audit-readyDesign the framework for monitoring HCP engagement frequency and workload to prevent KOL fatigue and manage the ethical use of experts across R&D and Commercial activitiesSet the standards for "white glove" service, ensuring the Manager maintains timely, professional, and consistent communication with external experts to mitigate reputational riskData, Metrics, and InsightsDefine and monitor performance metrics and engagement analytics to assess effectiveness and identify opportunities for optimization in HCP contractingDevelop dashboards and KPIs to monitor processing of HCP paymentsAnalyze engagement data to identify trends, efficiency opportunities, and compliance risksEnsure visibility, transparency, and data integrity across the end-to-end HCP lifecycle from engagement request to contract close-outPartner with R&D and Medical leaders to use data insights to inform strategic planning and continuous improvementIdentify process inefficiencies and implement scalable, automated solutions to reduce cycle times and administrative burdenLead cross-functional Root Cause Analysis (RCA) initiatives and implement corrective and preventive action (CAPA) plansEstablish KPIs and dashboards to monitor process performance, turnaround times, and compliance adherenceConsider technology and AI to support workflow improvementQualificationsEducation and Experience:Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Life Sciences, Finance, Law or a related field is requiredPrevious experience in HCP Contracting and Payments RequiredMinimum 6-8 years of experience in pharmaceutical R&D, biotechnology or healthcare industry, with strong experience in Medical Affairs, R&D operations, or HCP contracting within the pharmaceutical or biotech industryDeep understanding of HCP engagement processes, including contracting, cross-border approvals, and compliance frameworksProven track record of developing and operationalizing frameworks, processes, or centers of excellence in a global & matrixed organizationExperience collaborating cross-functionally with clinical, medical, and commercial partnersStrong understanding of regulatory, compliance, and ethical standards governing HCP interactions globallyFamiliarity with digital engagement platforms, CRM systems, and data-driven engagement models is a plusContract Development and Management Experience requiredSkills and Competencies:Exceptional ability to provide vision and drive organizational change, successfully in a complex, matrixed organizationStrong analytical and operational skillsDeep understanding of HCP engagement processes and compliance frameworks, with knowledge of global transparency, FMV, and reporting requirementsStrong knowledge of global regulatory and compliance standards (FDA, EFPIA, IFPMA, PhRMA)Proven track record of proactive, entrepreneurial work styleExcellent communication, executive presentation and collaboration skillsDemonstrated ability to deliver exceptional customer service and build strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders, ensuring a positive and professional experience at every touchpoint.Strong negotiation skills and demonstrated relationship buildingExcellent project management, organizational cross-functional collaboration and stakeholder management skillsAbility to lead through influence and drive alignment across diverse teamsAbility to spearhead change in a complex, matrixed organizationCompetenciesAccountability for ResultsStrategic Thinking & Problem SolvingPatient & Customer CentricityImpactful CommunicationRespectful CollaborationEmpowered DevelopmentMinimum $146,955.00 - Maximum $219,650.00, plus incentive opportunity: The range shown represents a typical pay range or starting pay for individuals who are hired in the role to perform in the United States. Other elements may be used to determine actual pay such as the candidate's job experience, specific skills, and comparison to internal incumbents currently in role. Typically, actual pay will be positioned within the established range, rather than at its minimum or maximum. This information is provided to applicants in accordance with states and local laws.Application Deadline: This will be posted for a minimum of 5 business days.Company benefits: Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, prescription drug coverage, company provided basic life, accidental death & dismemberment, short-term and long-term disability insurance, tuition reimbursement, student loan assistance, a generous 401(k) match, flexible time off, paid holidays, and paid leave programs as well as other company provided benefits.Otsuka is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will be given consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, gender identity or gender expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, religion, national origin, veteran status, marital status, or any other legally protected characteristic. If you are a qualified individual with a disability or a disabled veteran, you may request a reasonable accommodation, if you are unable or limited in your ability to apply to this job opening as a result of your disability. You can request reasonable accommodations by contacting Accommodation Request (EEAccommodations@otsuka-us.com).Statement Regarding Job Recruiting Fraud Scams: At Otsuka we take security and protection of your personal information very seriously. Please be aware individuals may approach you and falsely present themselves as our employees or representatives. They may use this false pretense to try to gain access to your personal information or acquire money from you by offering fictitious employment opportunities purportedly on our behalf. Please understand, Otsuka will never ask for financial information of any kind or for payment of money during the job application process. We do not require any financial, credit card or bank account information and/or any payment of any kind to be considered for employment. We will