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The Innovation Lead is responsible for identifying, assessing, and advancing scientific innovation opportunities originating from external companies, academic institutions, and innovation ecosystems. The role supports the development and execution of the Specialty Therapeutic Area (TA) strategy in Gastroenterology (GI) and Rheumatology/Immunology, working in close collaboration with Business Development (BD) and internal Development, Medical, and QRS functions. The Innovation Lead ensures a comprehensive scientific and medical evaluation of external opportunities, contributing expert insight to strategic decisions related to licensing, partnerships, and M&A, while shaping long-term innovation strategies aligned with Alfasigma’s mid- and long-term objectives and patient needs.
Job Responsibility:
Lead the scientific assessment and due diligence of external innovation opportunities, coordinating cross-functional internal stakeholders to evaluate scientific value, development feasibility, risks, and integration pathways
Provide high-level scientific and development expertise to support licensing, partnership, and M&A decisions
Develop and contribute to long-term innovation strategies and early pipeline build-up aligned with Alfasigma’s strategy in GI and Rheumatology/Immunology
Define, maintain, and execute an innovation roadmap consistent with business priorities and unmet patient needs
Develop business cases and lead pilot initiatives for new technologies, services, platforms, or operating models
Build and maintain a strong external network including academic institutions, biotech companies, venture capital firms, startups, and innovation hubs to proactively scout high-potential opportunities
Represent Alfasigma at scientific, innovation, and partnering events, including international congresses and external stakeholder meetings, strengthening the company’s presence within the innovation ecosystem
Monitor and anticipate emerging trends in life sciences, digital health, and the broader healthcare ecosystem
Collaborate on Corporate R&D projects and cross-functional initiatives as required
Requirements:
Minimum 10 years of experience in Pharma or Biotech R&D, including at least 8 years in leadership roles within discovery and/or development
Minimum 2 years of experience in external innovation scouting or open innovation activities
Demonstrated track record in initiating, piloting, and scaling innovative solutions with measurable business or patient impact
Experience leading cross-functional and matrix teams on innovation-driven programs
Experience working in or with startups, incubators, venture units, or innovation hubs
Background in digital health, SaaS, or data-driven business models, with proven experience launching or scaling digital platforms, applications, or services
Exposure to M&A, licensing, and strategic partnerships within an open innovation framework
PhD and/or MD required
MBA or Executive MBA is considered a plus
Ability to promote and embed an innovation mindset and culture across the organization
Strong strategic thinking with a clear understanding of how science drives business value
Deep scientific expertise in at least one Alfasigma TA (e.g. Gastroenterology/Hepatology or Immunology/Rheumatology) and a solid understanding of the competitive landscape
Proven capability to lead and integrate input from complex, multidisciplinary matrix teams
Excellent communication, presentation, and stakeholder engagement skills
Strong record of scientific innovation, demonstrated through publications and/or patents
Fluent English required
additional languages are an advantage
Proficient in Microsoft Office and key industry tools (e.g. SAP/Oracle, Clarivate or similar platforms)