Head of Computational and AI Strategy Management Office, R&D

About the job:

As the Head of Computational and AI Strategy Management Office, you’ll be executing Sanofi’s AI-driven transformation across the R&D value chain. Ready to get started?

Main Responsibilities:

• Strategy Development & Translation

• Support definition and evolution of the Computational & AI Strategy for R&D, translating enterprise ambition into clear strategic themes and priorities
• Lead development of compelling strategic narratives and materials for leadership forums (R&D LT, ExCom interactions, external engagements)
• Structure and drive a repeatable approach to strategy development, including: framing strategic opportunities and challenges, defining actionable approaches and investment priorities, developing clear recommendations grounded in data and insights

• Governance, Investment & Decision Support

• Help design and operationalize AI and digital investment prioritization across R&D functions
• Aid in the development of business cases and investment proposals, incorporating: scientific and technical impact, cost, timeline, and resource constraints, expected value creation and ROI
• Support preparation of materials for R&D leadership and executive-level reviews

• Operating Rhythm & Execution Management

• Establish and manage the operating cadence of the Computational & AI Strategy organization, including: leadership team meetings, strategic reviews and deep dives, initiative tracking and follow-up
• Ensure disciplined execution of key initiatives through: clear definition of milestones and deliverables, tracking of progress and identification of risks, proactive escalation and resolution of issues
• Act as a central hub to remove friction and accelerate execution

• Strategic Partnering & External Innovation

• Support development of a targeted external engagement strategy aligned to Computational & AI priorities
• Help identify and assess strategic partnership opportunities (AI platforms, biotech, technology, startups)
• Coordinate cross-functional evaluation of opportunities including: scientific, technical, regulatory, and commercial considerations, financial and strategic fit
• Contribute to development of deal rationale, positioning, and internal alignment
• Help position Sanofi as a partner of choice in AI-driven R&D innovation ecosystems

• Cross-Functional Alignment & Stakeholder Management

• Act as a central integrator across R&D, Digital, Data, IT, and partner organizations
• Lead cross-functional coordination across: research platforms, clinical and development functions, digital and AI teams
• Ensure alignment on priorities, roles, and responsibilities across a highly matrixed environment
• Build strong relationships with senior leaders and serve as a trusted advisor and problem solver

• Strategic Insights & Landscape Analysis

• Monitor emerging trends in AI, data, and computational science relevant to R&D
• Assess competitive landscape, external capabilities, and new opportunities
• Translate insights into strategic recommendations and implications for Sanofi
• Support development of points-of-view on where to “build, buy, or partner”

• Continuous Improvement of Operating Model

• Identify opportunities to improve the operating model, governance, and decision-making processes
• Help drive development of scalable frameworks, KPIs, and performance tracking mechanisms
• Institutionalize best practices across strategy development, execution, and partnership evaluation

About You:

• Basic Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree required
• Minimum of 5+ years of experience in strategy, operations, consulting, or related fields
• Demonstrated experience operating in a global, matrixed organization
• Proven ability to drive strategic initiatives from concept to execution

• Preferred Qualifications:

• Advanced degree (MBA, PhD, or equivalent)
• Experience in pharmaceutical, biotechnology, or healthcare industries
• Experience in digital, AI, or data-driven organizations
• Experience in strategic partnering, business development, or external innovation
• Experience building business cases, investment decks, or executive-level materials
• Experience leading cross-functional initiatives and influencing senior stakeholders

• Core Competencies:

• Strategic thinking and structured problem-solving
• Ability to translate strategy into execution
• Strong business acumen and financial understanding
• Executive communication and storytelling skills
• Stakeholder management and influence at senior levels
• Ability to operate effectively in ambiguity and complexity
• High level of ownership, initiative, and accountability