Life Sciences R&D Strategy & Transformation Manager

Life Sciences R&D Strategy & Transformation Manager

Our Deloitte Strategy & Transactions team helps guide clients through their most critical moments and transformational initiatives. From strategy to execution, this team delivers integrated, end-to-end support and advisory services covering valuation modeling, cost optimization, restructuring, business design and transformation, infrastructure and real estate, mergers and acquisitions (M&A), and sustainability. Work alongside clients every step of the way, helping them navigate new challenges, avoid financial pitfalls, and provide practical solutions at every stage of their journey-before, during, and after any major transformational projects or transactions. Deloitte's Life Sciences R&D practice is seeking a Manager to support clients in transforming their R&D organizations for the future. As a Manager, you will lead multidisciplinary teams to deliver high-impact strategy and transformation engagements across the biopharmaceutical and biotech value chain. This highly visible role includes developing strategic growth plans, refining therapeutic area focus and asset portfolios, and driving differentiated capabilities to enable long-term success. The role also focuses on optimizing the R&D operating model to achieve measurable gains in the quality, speed, and cost-efficiency of drug development (e.g., streamlining governance, enhancing decision-making, and evolving organizational design and ways of working).

Work You'll Do

Conduct data-driven diagnostics of R&D performance, leveraging internal KPIs, benchmarking tools, and external market insights to identify gaps and transformation opportunities. Design and implement future-state R&D operating models, aligning structure, governance, and workflows with scientific and commercial priorities. Design and lead implementation of strategic initiatives across the R&D value chain, leveraging data-driven insights along the way to guide and measure tangible performance improvements. Lead portfolio strategy assessments, including TA / DA / indication prioritization, risk-adjusted pipeline valuation, and investment allocation. Integrate emerging technologies (e.g., AI / ML, real-world data platforms) into development workflows in partnership with digital and analytics teams. Manage internal project teams comprising consultants, providing coaching, QA oversight, and delivery leadership. Advise senior client stakeholders through structured engagements, executive workshops, and thought leadership. Contribute to business development efforts, including proposal writing, account growth, and intellectual property (thought leadership, PoVs).

Qualifications Required

6+ years of experience in management consulting or strategic roles within biopharma / biotech R&D. 4+ years delivering R&D operating model redesigns, transformation programs, or portfolio strategy projects. 4+ years working in the biopharma drug development lifecycle and understanding of how R&D functions across the broader organization to deliver results. 3+ years experience working with quantitative performance and portfolio / investment valuation frameworks, as well as scenario planning. Bachelor's degree from accredited university with strong undergraduate academic record. Ability to travel up to 50% on average, based on the work you do and the clients and industries / sectors you serve. Limited immigration sponsorship may be available.

Preferred

Advanced degree in business (i.e., MBA). Ability to synthesize complex science, business, and operational dynamics into clear recommendations. Prior experience in R&D management consulting at a leading life sciences consulting firm. Hands-on R&D experience at a top-tier biopharmaceutical company.

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The wage range for this role takes into account the wide range of factors that are considered in making compensation decisions including but not limited to skill sets; experience and training; licensure and certifications; and other business and organizational needs. The disclosed range estimate has not been adjusted for the applicable geographic differential associated with the location at which the position may be filled. At Deloitte, it is not typical for an individual to be hired at or near the top of the range for their role and compensation decisions are dependent on the facts and circumstances of each case. A reasonable estimate of the current range is $144,200 to $265,600.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability or protected veteran status, or any other legally protected basis, in accordance with applicable law.