Associate Director, R&D HCP Engagement

Job Summary

The 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.

Job Description

Key Responsibilities Include:

Process Design and Implementation

• Set 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 model
• Lead 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 standards
• Drive 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&D

Team Leadership and Operational Oversight

• Directly manage, coach, and develop the Manager, HCP Engagement Lead, overseeing their performance, workload, and adherence to newly implemented process standards and protocols
• Provide operational oversight for tracking the entire HCP engagement process, ensuring the Manager accurately monitors performance and proactively identifies and resolves systemic process bottlenecks
• Design 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 impact
• Develop and implement a comprehensive training and certification program for all internal stakeholders involved in HCP engagement.

Governance, Compliance, and Audit Readiness

• Serve 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-ready
• Design 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 activities
• Set the standards for "white glove" service, ensuring the Manager maintains timely, professional, and consistent communication with external experts to mitigate reputational risk

Data, Metrics, and Insights 

• Define and monitor performance metrics and engagement analytics to assess effectiveness and identify opportunities for optimization in HCP contracting
• Develop dashboards and KPIs to monitor processing of HCP payments
• Analyze engagement data to identify trends, efficiency opportunities, and compliance risks
• Ensure visibility, transparency, and data integrity across the end-to-end HCP lifecycle from engagement request to contract close-out
• Partner with R&D and Medical leaders to use data insights to inform strategic planning and continuous improvement
• Identify process inefficiencies and implement scalable, automated solutions to reduce cycle times and administrative burden
• Lead cross-functional Root Cause Analysis (RCA) initiatives and implement corrective and preventive action (CAPA) plans
• Establish KPIs and dashboards to monitor process performance, turnaround times, and compliance adherence
• Consider technology and AI to support workflow improvement

Qualifications

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Life Sciences, Finance, Law or a related field is required
• Previous experience in HCP Contracting and Payments Required
• Minimum 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 industry
• Deep understanding of HCP engagement processes, including contracting, cross-border approvals, and compliance frameworks
• Proven track record of developing and operationalizing frameworks, processes, or centers of excellence in a global & matrixed organization
• Experience collaborating cross-functionally with clinical, medical, and commercial partners
• Strong understanding of regulatory, compliance, and ethical standards governing HCP interactions globally
• Familiarity with digital engagement platforms, CRM systems, and data-driven engagement models is a plus
• Contract Development and Management Experience required

Skills and Competencies:

• Exceptional ability to provide vision and drive organizational change, successfully in a complex, matrixed organization
• Strong analytical and operational skills
• Deep understanding of HCP engagement processes and compliance frameworks, with knowledge of global transparency, FMV, and reporting requirements 
• Strong knowledge of global regulatory and compliance standards (FDA, EFPIA, IFPMA, PhRMA)
• Proven track record of proactive, entrepreneurial work style
• Excellent communication, executive presentation and collaboration skills
• Demonstrated 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 building
• Excellent project management, organizational cross-functional collaboration and stakeholder management skills
• Ability to lead through influence and drive alignment across diverse teams
• Ability to spearhead change in a complex, matrixed organization 

Competencies
Accountability for Results - Stay focused on key strategic objectives, be accountable for high standards of performance, and take an active role in leading change.
Strategic Thinking & Problem Solving - Make decisions considering the long-term impact to customers, patients, employees, and the business.
Patient & Customer Centricity - Maintain an ongoing focus on the needs of our customers and/or key stakeholders.
Impactful Communication - Communicate with logic, clarity, and respect. Influence at all levels to achieve the best results for Otsuka.
Respectful Collaboration - Seek and value others’ perspectives and strive for diverse partnerships to enhance work toward common goals.
Empowered Development - Play an active role in professional development as a business imperative.

Minimum $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.

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.

Come discover more about Otsuka and our benefit offerings; https://www.otsuka-us.com/careers-join-otsuka.

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