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Executive Director, Business Development, RDU

Location Boston, Massachusetts, United States Job ID R-244116 Date posted 19/01/2026

Joining Alexion, AstraZeneca, Rare Disease, means embracing an opportunity where work isn’t ordinary, in a company where 'Here it means more' is more than a statement, it’s an ethos. We are a beacon in the global BioPharmaceutical landscape. Our closeness to patients brings us closer to our work and closer to each other. Combined with our brave, pioneering spirit – we are truly unique in R&D and healthcare.

The Executive Director,Business Developmentis a senior leaderwho will elevate the level of playacross the BD teamandwill beaccountable for sophisticated transactions from sourcing throughdue diligence,negotiation,and close. This will include mentoring team members, leading partner engagement and projects, andbuildingnew relationships across the globe andrepresentingAlexion at various meetings andconferences.

Reporting to the Vice President, Business Development, this role is essential for ensuring the acceleration of innovative medicines to patients globallyand improving the value of Alexion’s portfolio through inorganic growth strategies You will align deal terms tokey risks and value inflections andstructure multipleagreement types, including acquisitions, in-licensing, out-licensing, and collaborations.  

You willbe responsible for:

  • Identifying opportunitiesby:reviewing scientific and industry publications; networking,attending medical/scientific meetings, banking,and partnering conferences;andmaintainingrelationships with world-class investors andVCs

  • Ensuringefficient triaging and evaluation of new opportunities leading to recommendations and prioritization of only the highest quality opportunities

  • Ensuringpriority BD opportunities are progressed efficiently toappropriate conclusionor deal execution,including:structuring deal terms around key risks/ value inflections; business case development; financial modeling; andcontract negotiations

  • Leadingcross-functionalteamsthrough meticulous, but right-sized evaluation anddue diligence,including:Clinical, Research, Commercial, Regulatory, Finance, Legal,andManufacturing

  • Drivingwell-informed decision making with “executive-ready” deliverables presented atappropriate governanceforums 

  • Giving to and adjusting the overall BD strategy to meet corporate objectives

  • Collaborate and engage with colleagues in broader AstraZeneca teams, asappropriate forthe deal type and stage, including AstraZeneca Oncology, AstraZeneca Biopharmaceuticals, BDO, Corporate Development, Corporate Ventures, and Deal Finance

  • Engageanticipatedpost-close partners (e.g.,Alliance and Integration Management, R&Dor business owners) at theappropriate timeto ensure input into deal structure and terms, effective project initiation and transition, and communication of risks/ mitigations

  • Mentorpeer colleagues with guidance and innovative methodologies 

Qualifications:

  • Minimumeightyears of experienceinpharmaceutical/ biotech BD, with proven track recordstructuringterms,due diligence,negotiations,andclosingtransactions

  • Master's or Post-graduate degree in business (e.g.,MBA)or scientific field (e.g.,PhD,MD)

  • Proventrack recordpracticing good judgmentinriskidentification,assessment, and translation to well-structured deal terms

  • Experienceinteracting with andfacilitatingdecisions on BD matters withsenior management

  • Deep understanding of or direct experience in thedifferent functionswithin a global biotech company and steps needed for successful development and commercialization of biotech or pharmaceutical products

  • Ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams,build intra-team relationships,and collaborate in a global team environment at all levels of the organization

  • Stronganalytical,communication, andprojectandprocess management skills

  • Ability todraftandpresent clear, succinct,and convincing presentations at varying levels of detail depending on the project scope

  • Ability towork in a fast-paced environment andmanage complex issues, problem solve,and coordinate multiple projects simultaneously

  • Sense of ethics and responsibility

  • Ability to travel as business needs require

We would prefer for you to have:

  • Broad knowledge of, experience, and network in rare disease space(strongly preferred)

  • Experience in drug development for orphan indications

  • Experienceusingartificial intelligence toolstoaccelerate BD evaluations, screening for assets, or otherrelevant applications

  • Multi-region experience – US, EU, Japan, China, Emerging Markets

  • Comfort with principles of corporate financeand accounting relevant to structuring deal terms andfamiliarity with financial models

The annual base pay for this position ranges from $213,761 to $320,641. Our positions offer eligibility for various incentives—an opportunity to receive short-term incentive bonuses, equity-based awards for salaried roles and commissions for sales roles. Benefits offered include qualified retirement programs, paid time off (i.e., vacation, holiday, and leaves), as well as health, dental, and vision coverage in accordance with the terms of the applicable plans.

Date Posted

20-Jan-2026

Closing Date

12-Feb-2026

Our mission is to build an inclusive environment where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants and employees. In furtherance of that mission, we welcome and consider applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of their protected characteristics. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please complete the corresponding section in the application form.

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