Associate Director, Clinical Demand Planning

This is what you will do:

The Associate Director, Global Clinical Demand Planning is responsible for the support and evolution of a robust clinical demand planning function and capability for Alexion’s rapidly growing and dynamic clinical pipeline.

This role uses analytical and quantitative methods to understand, predict, and optimise demand planning processes through managing and interpreting data, identifying problems and/or risk, and implementing technology solutions which support clinical demand & supply planning operations.

This role develops long-range demand requirements for Alexion’s expanding clinical trial portfolio across all development phases. This will include working with a matrix team within PDCS (e.g. Clinical Supply Planning, Clinical Supply Management, CMC, Clinical Supply Leads) as well as with other key stakeholders (e.g. AO Strategic Planning, Quality, Regulatory Affairs, Finance)

You will be responsible for:

• Using simulation tools and supply chain expertise to design and optimize lean demand plans for individual studies, defining allocation of available stock to support the trials enrolment plan.  Where possible seek innovative flexible supply chain solutions capable of supporting multiple studies and reducing waste/overage
• Gathering and interpreting trial and program data, identifying problems/risks, and implementing solutions which support clinical demand planning operation
• Generate the Clinical Demand inputs to the C&OP process, explaining movements in demand and partnering with the Clinical Supply Planning team in understanding any capacity/planning impacts
• Perform drug supply management and expiry/retest date tracking of all clinical trial materials. Perform scenario planning over a range of variables, e.g. CMO network, trials and regional requirements
• Contribute to KPI development that drive a continuous improvement mindset for the planning process with the planning team and stakeholders 
• Own and support all systems-related activities that support current and future business. Drive development and implementation of clinical supply-related aspects of digital platform efforts
• Analyzes current procedures and identifies areas of improvement with a focus on planning, IRT, ERP and distribution
• Build and sustain employee engagement by creating a culture of efficient execution and an environment in which individuals and teams can excel and continuously improve

You will need to have:

• Knowledge of Clinical Development processes and supply chain
• Demand forecasting, supply chain planning and distribution experience
• Ability to define and evaluate critical metrics to measure forecast accuracy as well as improve cycle times and inventory management
• Demonstrated project management and process improvement skills
• Excellent planning, organizational, analytical and management skills
• Strong attention to detail, ability to work with autonomy, and able to communicate clearly to Sr. Management
• Proven decision making and negotiation skills and experience
• Strong technical acumen and experience implementing and maintaining clinical supply technologies
• Working knowledge of global regulatory environment impacting the provision of investigational products
• Strong understanding of SAP inventory and planning systems/tools. Experience using Clinical Demand Planning solutions, e.g. N-Side, SmartSignals
• Proficiency with personal computers and Microsoft Office Products, including Word, Project, Power Point, Access and Excel
• The duties of this role are generally conducted in an office environment.  As is typical of an office-based role, employees must be able, with or without an accommodation to: use a computer; engage in communications via phone, video, and electronic messaging; engage in problem solving and non-linear thought, analysis, and dialogue; collaborate with others; maintain general availability during standard business hours.

We would prefer for you to have:

• BS/BA degree in supply chain related or drug development discipline or equivalent qualification or experience
• Minimum of five years of experience in the pharmaceutical industry with focus on global clinical investigational and/or commercial product supply chain management and technologies
• Strong understanding of GCP’s, GMP’s and ICH guidelines and applicable regulatory requirements

In-person statement for 3 days in the office:

When we put unexpected teams in the same room, we unleash bold thinking with the power to inspire life-changing medicines. In-person working give us the platform we need to connect, work at pace and challenge perceptions. That’s why we work, on average, a minimum of three days per week from the office. But that doesn’t mean we’re not flexible. We balance the expectation of being in the office while respecting individual flexibility. Join us in our unique and ambitious world. 

AstraZeneca embraces diversity and equality of opportunity. We are committed to building an inclusive and diverse team representing all backgrounds, with as wide a range of perspectives as possible, and harnessing industry-leading skills. We believe that the more inclusive we are, the better our work will be. We welcome and consider applications to join our team from all qualified candidates, regardless of their characteristics. We comply with all applicable laws and regulations on non-discrimination in employment (and recruitment), as well as work authorization and employment eligibility verification requirements.