Head of Global Strategic and Scientific Partnerships - Vaccines Research and Development

Head of Global Strategic and Scientific Partnerships – Research & Development – Vaccines

Location:

Swiftwater, PA / Waltham, MA / Washington, DC.

We seek a leader to design and execute Sanofi’s external innovation strategy, identifying breakthrough science and technologies to integrate into the vaccine pipeline while establishing partnership positioning. The role reports to the Head of Vaccines R&D and is part of the Vaccines R&D Leadership Team.

• Develop and implement a comprehensive external innovation and partnership strategy aligned with Vaccines R&D portfolio priorities.
• Drive measurable pipeline value through strategic licensing, co‑development agreements, and technology acquisitions.
• Lead scientific and strategic evaluation of external opportunities, coordinating cross‑functional due diligence and providing clear go/no‑go recommendations.
• Build and maintain strategic relationships with academic institutions, biotech companies, government agencies, and global health organizations across Europe and globally.
• Identify and secure external funding opportunities including BARDA, CEPI, NIH, Horizon Europe, and other public‑private partnerships.
• Represent Sanofi in pandemic preparedness programs, policy discussions, and industry consortia at the highest levels.
• Ensure seamless integration of external partnerships into R&D processes in close collaboration with Business Development and cross‑functional teams.
• Lead and develop the Scientific & Strategic Partnerships team, fostering a high‑performance culture focused on accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.

• PhD, MD/PhD, or MD in Immunology, Microbiology, Infectious Diseases, Vaccinology, or related field; MBA or executive business education strongly preferred.
• Extensive experience in vaccine research, immunology, or infectious diseases with proven ability to evaluate scientific merit and translational potential.
• Strong track record in partnerships, business development, licensing, or external innovation within the biopharmaceutical industry.
• Demonstrated success in negotiating and executing strategic partnerships, in‑licensing agreements, or technology acquisitions creating measurable pipeline value.
• Senior leadership experience managing cross‑functional teams in matrixed global organizations.
• Proven expertise in securing external funding from government agencies, foundations, or international organizations.
• Strategic and entrepreneurial leader with deep scientific curiosity, exceptional negotiation skills, and executive presence.
• Experience engaging with European and global health organizations (WHO, GAVI, CEPI, BMGF) is highly valued.

Salary range: $ – $. Compensation is commensurate with demonstrated experience. Employees may be eligible to participate in company benefit programs, including high‑quality health care, prevention and wellness programs, and at least 14 weeks of gender‑neutral parental leave.

Flexible hybrid work arrangements, executive development programs, and international mobility opportunities within Sanofi’s global R&D organization.

Sanofi Inc. and its U.S. affiliates are equal‑opportunity employers committed to a culturally inclusive workforce. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, age, ancestry, nationality, marital status, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, disability, veteran or military status, or any other characteristic protected by law.