Finance Business Partner R&D Finance

Finance Business Partner R&D Finance

About Astellas

Astellas is a global life sciences company committed to turning innovative science into VALUE for patients. We provide transformative therapies in disease areas that include oncology, ophthalmology, urology, immunology and women's health. Through our research and development programs, we are pioneering new healthcare solutions for diseases with high unmet medical need. Learn more at

Are you driven to make a real difference in the lives of patients?

We're seeking passionate individuals who thrive in dynamic environments, embrace new ideas, and aren't afraid to take intelligent risks. People who act with unwavering integrity and are deeply committed to making a tangible impact.

Purpose:

This position delivers forward-looking financial and business partnership to shape portfolio and investment decisions across R&D. The role challenges assumptions, influences direction, and drives actions that improve portfolio value, capital efficiency, and performance outcomes.

The position leads financial planning, forecasting, and analysis for clinical development project spend, translating drivers into insights that enable prioritization, scenario-based decision making, and proactive course correction. It also elevates awareness of financial and operational topics critical to the sustainability and effectiveness of the R&D organization.

This position partners with FP&A COE teams to ensure timely, high-quality planning and reporting services and to align deliverables with business priorities. The role represents R&D business requirements, provides strategic input grounded in financial and operational expertise, and helps drive standardization and continuous improvement across the finance operating model. It plays an important role in executing global Finance strategy and strengthening financial governance for R&D.

Essential

Job Responsibilities:

Financial Planning & Forecasting

* Lead budgeting, forecasting, and long-range planning for clinical development programs (potential for Phase I-III and post-market).

* Work with asset teams to maintain accurate project-level financial models (trial costs, timelines, resource assumptions).

* Continuously update forecasts based on trial progress, enrolment changes, and protocol amendments.

* Support and/or lead special projects as assigned, including finance system enhancements, process improvements, and reporting updates, ensuring clear requirements, stakeholder alignment, and on time delivery.

Business Partnering with Asset Teams

* Act as the primary finance partner to Clinical Operations, Program Management, and R&D leadership.

* Provide decision support on:

* Trial design changes

* Portfolio prioritization

* Challenge assumptions while maintaining strong collaboration with non-finance stakeholders.

* Translate complex financial data into clear strategic insights that influence executive decision making.

Project Spend Tracking & Variance Analysis

* Monitor actual vs. budget/forecast at the study and program level.

* Identify and explain key variances (timing vs. permanent favorability).

* Support accrual and month end processes for assigned assets.

Strategic Alignment

* Identify opportunities to optimize budget allocation, to ensure we maximize our investment in the portfolio as a whole, driving value creation for patients.

* Support enterprise-wide initiatives such as pipeline prioritization, licensing decisions, program progression, etc.

* Proactively identify strategic risks and opportunities (clinical delays, cost overruns, resource constraints) and quantify financial impact.