Head of AI Transformation

Role Summary

AstraZeneca is seeking a highly motivated, innovative, and strategic leader to head AI transformation, overseeing the development and implementation of the AI Development Agent (AIDA) programme. The role aims to drive significant productivity gains in the product development function and to foster a digital mindset across the organisation.

Responsibilities

• Drive the development of a $50M total, now 4-year digital/AI programme, ensuring delivery on time, on budget, and within scope and emerging AI governance
• Develop project plans including yearly business cases and goals; manage a budget; ensure timely deliverables and report progress to stakeholders
• Act as a change agent, advocating for the AIDA project across stages and platforms, and engage stakeholders across R&D and Manufacturing
• Streamline processes, minimize waste, increase efficiency, identify risks and implement mitigations
• Build and maintain a network of internal and external AI experts for knowledge sharing and collaborative problem solving
• Influence across technical and non-technical functions for rapid and efficient implementation of programme technologies
• Facilitate securing Intellectual Property strategies and maintaining freedom to operate
• Lead and coordinate a programme team of business representatives, IT representatives, and sub-project leaders; report progress to the steering Committee
• Ensure developments comply with applicable standards and guidelines

Qualifications

• Advanced degree (PhD or equivalent) in a core scientific field such as computer science, physics, mathematics, chemistry
• Experience leading engaged, high-performing teams across multiple pharmaceutical disciplines
• Significant experience in a CMC organisation with insight into drug development processes
• Proven ability to influence across disease, therapy, and functional areas
• Strong strategic and entrepreneurial thinking; ability to interpret complex information to provide strategic clarity
• Demonstrated ability to liaise effectively internally and externally

Skills

• Proven track record managing projects or large change programmes and delivering complex projects through change and performance
• Strong business acumen with understanding of the pharmaceutical landscape
• Deep understanding of the AI technology landscape and its application to disease areas and operations
• Experience from advanced AI training
• Strong collaboration and networking skills; ability to build internal and external relationships
• Commitment to ethical behavior and sustainability in business operations
• Decisive leadership; strong communication and inspirational influence at all levels
• Ability to establish a high-performing team and impact the business
• High personal credibility

Education

• Advanced degree (PhD or equivalent) in a core scientific field as listed above