Senior Director Research Intelligence

Job Overview

Sr. Director, Research Competitive Intelligence – responsible for shaping Zealand Pharma’s research direction by integrating external landscapes to influence research portfolio decisions.

• Track and synthesize competitive intelligence across metabolic health and related areas, including competitor readouts, publications, and patent literature aligned to Zealand’s strategy.
• Rapidly internalize breaking external data and independently develop analyses, narratives, and implications for Zealand’s research strategy and portfolio choices.
• Apply advanced quantitative methods to capture, analyze, and visualize complex datasets (e.g., preclinical and clinical data), translating findings into actionable recommendations.
• Develop high‑impact communications—briefings, presentations, written summaries—as the primary research competitive intelligence point of contact.
• Partner cross‑functionally with Research, Medical, Development, IR, and Commercial teams to align on key questions, decision points, and strategic options.
• Build repeatable competitive intelligence products and operating rhythms (e.g., landscape monitoring, event coverage, thematic deep‑dives) to support leadership decision making.

• PhD (or equivalent advanced degree) in a relevant life sciences or quantitative discipline with demonstrated understanding of discovery chemistry, pharmacology, and development.
• 10–15+ years of biopharma experience, including significant experience in R&D strategy and/or competitive intelligence.
• Deep knowledge of obesity and metabolic disease biology and therapeutic landscape; ability to evaluate emerging science critically.
• High learning agility and familiarity with multiple modalities (e.g., peptides, antibodies, oligonucleotides) and their discovery and development considerations.
• Strong quantitative and data visualization capabilities to independently analyze complex datasets and build coherent narratives (e.g., clinical trial data, preclinical results, Bayesian/statistical approaches).
• Experience partnering with Research Data & Tech and IT to develop automated workflows and incorporate AI systems to accelerate internalization of external insights.
• Proven ability to influence in a matrix and deliver clear, high‑impact presentations and written recommendations to senior executives.

The salary expectations for this role are: $226,000–276,000 USD.