Head of Global Research - Vaccines R&D

About The Job

In the context of the R&D evolution, our position is currently in Project Status, where the scope of this position may continue to evolve. External Innovation & Pipeline Value

• 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.

Opportunity Assessment & Governance

• 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.

Partnerships & External Funding

• 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.

Cross‑Functional Leadership

• 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.

Scientific Leadership

• 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.

Responsibilities

As a Vaccines GBU and Sanofi Leader

• Contribute to the short-, medium-, and long‑term vision and strategy of Vaccines and Sanofi.
• Represent Sanofi and Vaccines R&D internally and externally.
• Foster collaboration across functions and business units.

As a VRDLT Member

• Contribute to Vaccines R&D strategy, portfolio decisions, and organizational priorities.
• Drive cross‑functional alignment and constructive challenge.
• Communicate progress, risks, and opportunities transparently.
• Identify external opportunities that accelerate strategic objectives.

As a People Leader

• 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.

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 of experience in vaccines, immunology, infectious diseases, or related areas.
• 10+ years of experience 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

• Bring the miracles of science to life alongside a supportive, future‑focused team.
• Discover endless opportunities to grow your talent and drive your career, whether it's through a promotion or lateral move, at home or internationally.
• Enjoy a thoughtful, well‑crafted rewards package that recognizes your contribution and amplifies your impact.
• Take good care of yourself and your family, with a wide range of health and wellbeing benefits including high‑quality healthcare, prevention and wellness programs and at least 14 weeks' gender‑neutral parental leave.
• Lead one of the industry’s most ambitious external innovation agendas, shaping the future of Sanofi’s global vaccine pipeline.
• Build and influence a world‑class ecosystem of academic, biotech, and global health partnerships at the forefront of pandemic preparedness.
• Work from Marcy l'Etoile, Europe’s leading R&D hub for vaccine innovation, with true global impact and access to Sanofi’s worldwide network.
• Benefit from flexible hybrid work arrangements supporting work‑life balance while being part of a multicultural, international team.
• Access to executive development programs and international mobility opportunities within Sanofi’s global R&D organization.

At Sanofi, 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.