Director of External Research & Development

Role Summary

Director of External Research & Development - Technology Business Development. Lead Amgen’s search and evaluation for external partnerships focusing on small molecule drug discovery and technologies supporting oncology, negotiate and execute transactions, and collaborate across functions to align with broader business goals. Contribute to external strategy, build a global network of industry and academic contacts, and oversee cross-functional reviews and negotiations.

Responsibilities

• Lead search and evaluation of external opportunities and manage communications between external community and internal groups.
• Prioritize opportunities based on Amgen’s R&D strategy; oversee technical evaluations and cross-functional review teams.
• Engage in business negotiations and work with the legal team to execute contractual agreements for projects.
• Lead strategic discussions and presentations with senior management, R&D, and other functions to set priorities for collaboration, licensing, or M&A of external innovation.
• Contribute to searches and transactions for technology areas outside small molecule drug discovery and oncology as needed; mentor others.

Qualifications

• Basic Qualifications:
  • Doctorate in a scientific field with 4 years of experience in drug development industry and/or biopharma business development
  • Or Master’s in a scientific field with 7 years of experience in drug development industry and/or biopharma business development
  • Or Bachelor’s in a scientific field with 9 years of experience in R&D and/or biopharma business development
• Preferred Qualifications:
  • Doctorate in a scientific field with strong knowledge in discovery and technology platforms
  • 4+ years of management/leadership experience in business and drug development activities; strong technical R&D experience with BD and licensing
  • Strong leadership, scientific, organizational, communication, and project management skills; ability to manage multiple projects
  • Excellent presentation and communication skills; ability to foresee and solve problems; strong team collaboration and ability to interface with all levels
  • Ability to establish relationships with internal and external parties; professional demeanor with strong decision making
  • Ability to work independently, manage large cross-functional teams, and mentor individuals

Skills

• Strategic thinking and external-innovation sourcing
• Cross-functional leadership and collaboration
• Negotiation and contract execution
• Relationship building with industry and academic partners

Education

• As specified in Basic Qualifications (Doctorate/Master’s/Bachelor’s in a scientific field)