Executive Director, Business Development, RDU

Joining Alexion, AstraZeneca, Rare Disease, means embracing an opportunity where work isn’t ordinary, in a company where 'Here it means more' is more than a statement, it’s an ethos. We are a beacon in the global Bio Pharmaceutical landscape. Our closeness to patients brings us closer to our work and closer to each other. Combined with our brave, pioneering spirit – we are truly unique in R&D and healthcare.

• Identifying opportunities by: reviewing scientific and industry publications; networking, attending medical/scientific meetings, banking, and partnering conferences; and maintaining relationships with world‑class investors and VCs
• Ensuring efficient triaging and evaluation of new opportunities leading to recommendations and prioritization of only the highest quality opportunities
• Ensuring priority BD opportunities are progressed efficiently to appropriate conclusion or deal execution, including: structuring deal terms around key risks/ value inflections; business case development; financial modeling; and contract negotiations
• Leading cross‑functional teams through meticulous, but right‑sized evaluation and due diligence, including:
  Clinical, Research, Commercial, Regulatory, Finance, Legal, and Manufacturing
• Driving well‑informed decision making with “executive-ready” deliverables presented at appropriate governance forums
• Giving to and adjusting the overall BD strategy to meet corporate objectives
• Collaborate and engage with colleagues in broader AstraZeneca teams, as appropriate for the deal type and stage, including AstraZeneca Oncology, AstraZeneca Biopharmaceuticals, BDO, Corporate Development, Corporate Ventures, and Deal Finance
• Engage anticipated post‑close partners (e.g., Alliance and Integration Management, R&D or business owners) at the appropriate time to ensure input into deal structure and terms, effective project initiation and transition, and communication of risks/ mitigations
• Mentor peer colleagues with guidance and innovative methodologies

• Minimum eight years of experience in pharmaceutical/ biotech BD, with proven track record structuring terms, due diligence, negotiations, and closing transactions
• Master's or Post‑graduate degree in business (e.g., MBA) or scientific field (e.g., PhD, MD)
• Proven track record practicing good judgment in risk identification, assessment, and translation to well‑structured deal terms
• Experience interacting with and facilitating decisions on BD matters with senior management
• Deep understanding of or direct experience in the different functions within a global biotech company and steps needed for successful development and commercialization of biotech or pharmaceutical products
• Ability to work collaboratively with cross‑functional teams, build intra‑team relationships, and collaborate in a global team environment at all levels of the organization
• Strong analytical, communication, and project and process management skills
• Ability to draft and present clear, succinct, and convincing presentations at varying levels of detail depending on the project scope
• Ability to work in a fast‑paced environment and manage complex issues, problem solve, and coordinate multiple projects simultaneously
• Sense of ethics and responsibility
• Ability to travel as business needs require

• Broad knowledge of, experience, and network in rare disease space (strongly preferred)
• Experience in drug development for orphan indications
• Experience using artificial intelligence tools to accelerate BD evaluations, screening for assets, or other relevant applications
• Multi‑region experience – US, EU, Japan, China, Emerging Markets
• Comfort with principles of corporate finance and accounting relevant to structuring deal terms and familiarity with financial models

The annual base pay for this position ranges from $213,761 to $320,641. Our positions offer eligibility for various incentives—an opportunity to receive short‑term incentive bonuses, equity‑based awards for salaried roles and commissions for sales roles. Benefits offered include qualified retirement programs, paid time off (i.e., vacation, holiday, and leaves), as well as health, dental, and vision coverage in accordance with the terms of the applicable plans.

Date Posted: 16-Feb-2026

Closing Date: 19-Feb-2026

Our mission is to build an inclusive environment where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants and employees. In furtherance of that mission, we welcome and consider applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of their protected characteristics. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please complete the corresponding section in the application form.