Head of Global Strategic and Scientific Partnerships - Vaccines Research and Development

Main responsibilities

• Develop and implement a comprehensive external innovation and partnership strategy aligned with Vaccines R&D portfolio priorities
• Drive measurable pipeline value through strategic licensing, co-development agreements, and technology acquisitions that strengthen competitive positioning
• Lead scientific and strategic evaluation of external opportunities, coordinating cross-functional due diligence and providing clear go/no-go recommendations
• Build and maintain strategic relationships with academic institutions, biotech companies, government agencies, and global health organizations across Europe and globally
• Identify and secure external funding opportunities including BARDA, CEPI, NIH, Horizon Europe, and other public-private partnerships
• Represent Sanofi in pandemic preparedness programs, policy discussions, and industry consortia at the highest levels
• Ensure seamless integration of external partnerships into R&D processes in close collaboration with Business Development and cross-functional teams
• Lead and develop the Scientific & Strategic Partnerships team, fostering a high-performance culture focused on accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement

About You

• PhD, MD/PhD, or MD in Immunology, Microbiology, Infectious Diseases, Vaccinology, or related field; MBA or executive business education strongly preferred
• Extensive experience in vaccine research, immunology, or infectious diseases with proven ability to evaluate scientific merit and translational potential
• Strong track record in partnerships, business development, licensing, or external innovation within the biopharmaceutical industry
• Demonstrated success in negotiating and executing strategic partnerships, in-licensing agreements, or technology acquisitions that created measurable pipeline value
• Senior leadership experience managing cross-functional teams in matrixed global organizations
• Proven expertise in securing external funding from government agencies, foundations, or international organizations
• Strategic and entrepreneurial leader with deep scientific curiosity, exceptional negotiation skills, and executive presence
• Experience engaging with European and global health organizations (WHO, GAVI, CEPI, BMGF) is highly valued