Associate Director, Business Operations Central Cluster

Associate Director, Business Operations Central Cluster

Paris, France

Position Summary

The Associate Director Business Operations will be responsible for driving the efficient execution of business operations across the Central Cluster (France, Belgium, Netherlands and Luxembourg). This role ensures alignment between scientific, commercial and operational functions in a fast paced biotech organization. The individual will work closely with cluster leadership and serve as a key interface with the regional team to define strategic priorities, improve processes and oversee day‑to‑day business activities. Experience in commercial and/or marketing, financial, supply chain and operational processes is required.

Work Model

Flex: Onsite work expected 2–3 days per week depending on business needs.

Responsibilities

• Cross‑functional cluster leadership and governance support: Support the VP GM in agenda preparation, slide preparation and leadership of key strategic operational meetings, offsites and forums. Develop and execute operational plans that align with corporate goals.
• Business reviews and strategic planning: Collaborate with regional finance, medical and commercial/operations to prepare and execute finance and performance management processes—QBRs, country launch reporting, launch excellence dashboards and reporting, monthly revenue reviews, budgeting and long‑term planning.
• Operational effectiveness: Identify and lead projects at the cluster level aiming to improve overall processes and operational effectiveness (e.g. localization of regional initiatives, trainings or materials, sales force effectiveness).
• Supply chain optimization: Partner with regional business operations and the responsible pharmacist on S&OP and supply processes; work with third‑party vendors to optimize and set up Home Infusion services and other patient support programs in accordance with local regulations.
• Go‑to‑market operational set‑up including site readiness: Collaborate with the regional gene therapy team to identify potential sites for upcoming gene therapy programs and develop site readiness preparation and set‑up.
• Project management and resource allocation: Oversee key projects, ensuring timelines, budgets and deliverables are met; manage project budgets and third‑party vendors to achieve optimal resource use.
• Compliance & risk management: Ensure adherence to local regulations (e.g., DMO, ABPI, LIF) and mitigate operational risks.
• Analytics and insights generation: Collaborate with the regional analytics team to ensure maximum benefit from field‑level interactions.
• Order management: Track client orders by product and indication; manage contacts with pharmacies and finance departments of hospitals; ensure orders are transferred to logistic partners; collaborate with finance, customer service and supply chain; manage hospital agreements in France; collect debt if required.
• Declarations to authorities: Prepare and manage declarations such as ANSM, CEP etc.

Requirements

Education: Biotechnology, Biology, Life Sciences, Business Administration or Management. Advanced degree (MBA or Masters/PhD in a life science discipline) preferred.

• Industry experience: 5–10 years in biotech, pharmaceutical, or life science industries.
• Leadership experience: Proven track record of leading cross‑functional teams.
• Core skills: Understanding of biotech business operating models, market dynamics and regulatory landscape; financial acumen; strategic planning and execution; stakeholder management; excellent communication and negotiation skills; familiarity with biotech‑specific software (e.g., CRM systems); proficiency in data analytic tools and reporting systems; strong leadership and decision‑making skills; high attention to detail; ability to manage ambiguity and lead change initiatives; collaborative relationship‑building; continuous improvement mindset.

Location

Based in Île de France with occasional travel to cluster countries and EMEA HQ in Switzerland.

Language

English required; French fluency preferred.

Benefits

• Generous vacation time and public holidays observed by the company
• Long‑term incentive and employee stock purchase plans
• Fitness reimbursement
• Other benefits vary by region and country

Equal Opportunity Employer

Ultragenyx Pharmaceuticals is an equal opportunity employer and prohibits unlawful discrimination based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, national origin/ancestry, age, disability, marital and veteran status, and any other protected classification under applicable law. Reasonable accommodations are available.