Head of Global Research - Vaccines R&D

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a comprehensive external innovation and partnership strategy aligned with portfolio priorities.
• Drive measurable pipeline value through licensing, co‑development, strategic partnerships, and technology acquisitions.
• Identify, assess, and integrate emerging scientific opportunities and technologies.
• Establish collaboration models that maximize scientific value while protecting intellectual property and strategic interests.
• Lead scientific, strategic, and risk‑based evaluation of external opportunities.
• Coordinate cross‑functional due diligence of potential partners, technologies, and assets.
• Define partnership KPIs, governance processes, and value‑tracking mechanisms.
• Provide clear recommendations to support portfolio and investment decisions.
• Build and maintain strategic relationships with academic institutions, biotech companies, government agencies, and global health organizations.
• Identify and secure external funding opportunities, including BARDA, CEPI, NIH, Horizon Europe, and other public‑private initiatives.
• Represent Sanofi in pandemic preparedness programs, policy discussions, and industry consortia.
• Ensure seamless integration of external partnerships into R&D processes.
• Collaborate closely with Business Development and other functions to align scientific and commercial objectives.
• Create value across Vaccines R&D and the broader Sanofi organization through strategic collaborations.
• Strengthen Sanofi’s scientific reputation through partnerships, publications, and high‑profile initiatives.
• Represent Sanofi in scientific, industry, and policy forums.
• Position Vaccines R&D as a preferred partner for breakthrough innovation.

Short, Medium, and Long‑Term Vision

• Contribute to the vision and strategy of Vaccines and Sanofi.
• Represent Sanofi and Vaccines R&D internally and externally.
• Foster collaboration across functions and business units.

Strategic Leadership

• Drive cross‑functional alignment and constructive challenge.
• Communicate progress, risks, and opportunities transparently.
• Identify external opportunities that accelerate strategic objectives.

People Leadership

• Lead and develop the Scientific & Strategic Partnerships team.
• Build a high‑performance culture focused on accountability, collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement.
• Manage resources and priorities to support portfolio needs and long‑term goals.
• Foster employee engagement, talent development, and organizational effectiveness.

Qualifications

• Education – PhD, MD/PhD, or MD in Immunology, Microbiology, Infectious Diseases, Vaccinology, or a related field. Postdoctoral training, MBA, or business education is advantageous.
• Experience – 15+ years in vaccines, immunology, infectious diseases, or related areas; 10+ years in partnerships, licensing, business development, or external innovation; 8+ years of leadership experience in cross‑functional organizations; demonstrated success in identifying and executing strategic partnerships that create pipeline value.
• Expertise – Strong understanding of vaccine science, immunology, translational medicine, and emerging technologies; expertise in scientific due diligence, asset evaluation, competitive intelligence, and portfolio assessment; excellent communication, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills.
• Leadership Profile – Strategic and entrepreneurial mindset with strong scientific curiosity; decisive, collaborative, and comfortable operating in complex environments.
• Languages – Full professional proficiency in English required; French is a strong asset.

Benefits

• Flexible hybrid work arrangements supporting work‑life balance.
• Health and wellness benefits including high‑quality healthcare, prevention and wellness programs, and at least 14 weeks' gender‑neutral parental leave.
• Thoughtful rewards package that recognizes contribution and amplifies impact.
• Access to executive development programs and international mobility opportunities within Sanofi’s global R&D organization.
• Opportunity to lead one of the industry’s most ambitious external innovation agendas and shape the future of Sanofi’s global vaccine pipeline.
• Ability to build and influence a world‑class ecosystem of academic, biotech, and global health partnerships at the forefront of pandemic preparedness.

Compensation

Salary range: € ,00 – € . Final compensation will be determined based on demonstrated experience, skills, location, and other relevant factors.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Sanofi is an equal‑opportunity employer. We provide equal opportunities to all regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, or gender identity.