Executive Director, Regional External Innovation Lead

Main Responsibilities & Accountabilities

• Design and implement an optimized Due Diligence (DD) process emphasizing consistency, speed, and efficiency across all therapeutic areas.
• Track progress and performance metrics to ensure effective use of TA and functional resources, driving accountability and transparency.
• Identify, assess, and deploy AI-based tools and best practices to enhance DD capabilities, partnering externally to bring cutting-edge solutions into CSL.
• Lead a team of Regional Ecosystem Leads embedded in key innovation hubs to represent CSL and source innovation aligned with TA strategies.
• Maintain strong local relationships and amplify CSL’s priorities at universities, incubators, accelerators, VCs, and local organizations.
• Partner closely with Search TA Leads to conduct regional searches, plan engagements/conferences, and share regional insights.
• Organize and represent CSL at local innovation events (e.g., CSL Boston Innovation Day) to strengthen visibility and partnerships.
• Support research-related goals through regional engagement including identifying early targets/assets and facilitating collaborations (e.g., the RAI process).
• Work closely with Search TA Leads and BD teams as part of deal teams through negotiation and deal close, ensuring seamless handoff and execution.
• Contribute to early partnering strategies and onboarding approaches that create competitive advantage for CSL.

Qualifications & Experience Requirements

• 15+ years in biopharma with significant experience in business development, external innovation, and due diligence leadership.
• Advanced degree required (PhD, MD, or equivalent).
• Proven track record of designing and implementing scalable processes for asset evaluation and deal execution.
• Strong understanding of AI-enabled tools and digital solutions for DD and portfolio analytics.
• Deep network within biotech, academia, and innovation ecosystems globally.