Senior Director Research Competitive Intelligence

Does it excite you to shape research strategy by turning breaking external data in obesity and metabolic health into actionable insights? Do you have experience with research competitive intelligence and quantitative analysis? If this sounds like you, and you are ready to take on a broad area of responsibilities, then you could be our new colleague. Your new position as Sr.

Director, Research Competitive Intelligence will shape Zealand Pharma’s research direction by integrating external landscapes to influence research portfolio. The position will stay on top of the rapidly evolving landscape (peer reviewed publications, press releases, patents, and congress readouts) and develop independent, data‑driven insights in close collaboration with internal or external subject matter experts. The role currently reports to Chief Scientific Officer & EVP, Dr.

Utpal Singh, and partners closely with Research, Medical, Development, IR, and Commercial stakeholders. This is a hands‑on scientific leadership role requiring deep understanding of discovery chemistry, pharmacology, advanced quantitative methods, data visualization, and executive‑ready communication.

• Track and synthesize competitive intelligence across metabolic health and adjacencies, including competitor readouts, publications, and patent literature in areas aligned to or adjacent to Zealand’s strategy and portfolio
• Rapidly internalize breaking external data and independently develop analyses, narratives, and implications for Zealand’s research strategy and portfolio choices
• Apply 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 a 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)
• Partner with Research Data & Tech as well as IT to develop automated workflows and incorporate agentic 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 position, for now, sits within the Research organization and reports to the Chief Scientific Officer & EVP. The role will work closely with senior scientific leaders and subject matter experts across research disciplines (including chemistry/computational sciences and biology) and collaborate broadly with Medical, Development, IR, and Commercial colleagues to ensure external insights are rapidly translated into strategic and portfolio implications.

While the role involves a high degree of independent thinking, we value and encourage regular onsite collaboration to support open dialogue, shared learning, and strong connections across teams.

We have a unique culture, characterized by excellent teamwork and strong engagement across the organization. And we want you to help us strengthen this culture. Making bonds is…