Head of Research Portfolio Strategy

Company: Initial Therapeutics, Inc.
Location: Boston
Posted on: March 22, 2025

Job Description:

By clicking the "Apply" button, I understand that my employment application process with Takeda will commence and that the information I provide in my application will be processed in line with Takeda's and . I further attest that all information I submit in my employment application is true to the best of my knowledge.Job DescriptionAre you looking for a patient-focused, innovation-driven company that will inspire you and empower you to shine?At Takeda, we are transforming the pharmaceutical industry through our R&D-driven market leadership and being a values-led company. To do this, we empower our people to realize their potential through life-changing work. Certified as a Global Top Employer, we offer stimulating careers, encourage innovation, and strive for excellence in everything we do. We foster an inclusive, collaborative workplace, in which our global teams are united by an unwavering commitment to deliver Better Health and a Brighter Future to people around the world.Here, you will be a vital contributor to our inspiring, bold mission.Takeda is proud in its commitment to creating a diverse workforce and providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, parental status, national origin, age, disability, citizenship status, genetic information or characteristics, marital status, status as a Vietnam era veteran, special disabled veteran, or other protected veteran in accordance with applicable federal, state and local laws, and any other characteristic protected by law.Objective / Purpose:The Research Strategy and Operations function is responsible for integrating scientific acumen with business analytics and processes to deliver clear business plans, operational excellence and portfolio progression for the Takeda Research pipeline.The Head of Portfolio Strategy for Research is a core member of the Research Strategy & Operations Leadership Team and plays a critical role in overseeing and optimizing the research portfolio, driving focus and prioritization. This role is accountable for portfolio analyses needed for effective decision making and ensures clear communication of portfolio strategy, status and decisions across the Research organization. Leverages expertise in portfolio management to maximize the value of our research investments and accelerate development of innovative therapies for patients.The Portfolio Management team leads Research strategy and decision-making through data-driven insights and scenario planning, leveraging digital and AI for transformation. Optimizes overall portfolio by working closely with Research leaders, providing expertise for asset strategy, monitoring program team performance, and enabling strategic governance. Develops mechanism for and drives project prioritization, governance, and milestones, ensuring access to relevant portfolio and program data for proactive conversations with Research Leadership Team. Delivers competitive intelligence and portfolio data views to Research Leadership Team, interface with the internal governance bodies and global portfolio team and driving ongoing business development.Accountabilities:

• Develops and implements a comprehensive portfolio management strategy for the Research pipeline, aligning it with the company's overall business objectives.
• Actively contributes to real-time and effective portfolio prioritization, decision making and key portfolio analytics to support individual asset and portfolio-level decision making, including at senior governance bodies.
• Ensures alignment to Research strategy and priorities through strong partnerships with Research Leadership Team members and other senior leaders.
• Leads team of portfolio managers and analysts, providing guidance, mentorship, and support to ensure the successful execution of portfolio management processes.
• Leads strategic initiatives independently and under the direction of the Head of Research Strategy & Operations to improve the portfolio management, portfolio linkage and prioritization methodology, as well as identifies internal strategic imperatives and develops mechanisms to effectively respond to evolving business needs.
• Accountable to setting and meeting Research key performance indicators (KPIs).
• Collaborates with research scientists, project leaders, and cross-functional teams to evaluate and prioritize research projects based on strategic fit, scientific merit, market potential, and resource availability.
• Ensures Takeda Research leverages the most effective AI/digital tools that enable leadership portfolio decision making.
• Conducts regular portfolio reviews to assess project progress, identify risks and opportunities, and make data-driven recommendations for portfolio optimization.
• Conducts regular competitive assessments of external landscape to contextualize portfolio opportunities, risks, and long-term strategy.
• Collaborates closely with Therapeutic Area Unit (TAU) Portfolio Strategy leaders to maintain links between research area strategies across discovery and clinical research.
• Develops and maintains portfolio management tools, methodologies, and dashboards to facilitate effective decision-making and communication across the organization.
• Collaborates with finance and resource management teams to ensure optimal allocation of resources, including budget, personnel, and infrastructure, to support the Research portfolio.
• Monitors and analyzes external market trends, competitive landscape, and regulatory developments to inform portfolio management strategies and identify potential partnerships or licensing opportunities.
• Fosters a culture of innovation and continuous improvement within the portfolio management team, promoting best practices and knowledge sharing.
• Collaborates with senior leadership to provide regular updates on portfolio performance, key milestones, and strategic recommendations.Education & Competencies:
  • Expected 15 years related experience in the pharmaceutical industry, with working knowledge of research and development and commercial operations.
  • Expected 10 years drug development experience in pharmaceutical/biotechnology with interdisciplinary global experience with complex projects including program leadership, strategy and execution and matrix team management.
  • Proven ability to respectfully challenge and influence senior leaders.
  • Expertise in competitive portfolio landscapes in Takeda therapeutic areas.
  • Demonstrated leadership skills with the ability to provide strategic direction and drive results.
  • Excellent project management and organizational skills.
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills to effectively collaborate with cross-functional teams.
  • Advanced degree (Ph.D., M.S., or equivalent) in a scientific discipline preferred.Locations: Boston, MA; JPN - Kanagawa - iParkWorker Type: EmployeeWorker Sub-Type: RegularTime Type: Full timeJob Exempt: Yes
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Keywords: Initial Therapeutics, Inc., Boston , Head of Research Portfolio Strategy, Other , Boston, Massachusetts