Medical Director Gulf RDU

AstraZeneca

JOB TITLE

Medical Director Gulf RDU

About Astrazeneca

AstraZeneca is a global, science-led, patient-focused biopharmaceutical company that focuses on the discovery, development, and commercialisation of prescription medicines for some of the world s most serious diseases. But we re more than one of the world s leading pharmaceutical companies.

Role Summary

The Medical Affairs Director for AZ Gulf is a key member of the Gulf Leadership Team, accountable for the strategic leadership and direction of the Medical Affairs function. You will ensure the highest standards of scientific, ethical, and medical expertise are applied in supporting the safe and effective use of AstraZeneca s medicines. The role leads collaboration with internal and external stakeholders to deliver evidence-based medical strategies, clinical insights, knowledge exchange, and scientific engagement.

The Medical Affairs Director will have a vital voice in shaping commercial, regulatory, and patient access strategies, ensuring alignment with global and regional objectives while maintaining a focus on the Gulf healthcare environment and patient needs.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute the local Medical Affairs strategy in alignment with regional and global strategic imperatives and AstraZeneca s science-led approach.
• Drive diagnostic strategy to support clinical decision-making and advance organizational objectives.
• Provide scientific advice and strategic guidance to internal stakeholders (Commercial, Market Access, Regulatory, Clinical Operations) to support decision-making and maximize patient benefit.
• Oversee the planning and execution of medical activities and programs, including investigator-initiated studies, real-world evidence generation, advisory boards, and scientific exchange events.
• Build, lead, and inspire a high-performing Medical Affairs team, ensuring robust performance management, talent development, and a culture of scientific excellence and compliance.
• Serve as the primary medical interface for key external experts, healthcare professionals, academic institutions, and patient advocacy groups, fostering trusted scientific relationships.
• Ensure the timely and compliant dissemination of medical and scientific information, consistent with local regulatory and ethical standards.
• Support the launch and lifecycle management of AstraZeneca s product portfolio by delivering relevant medical education, data generation, medical insights, and effective collaboration with global teams.
• Oversee review and approval of promotional and non-promotional materials, ensuring adherence to medical and regulatory standards.
• Maintain up-to-date awareness of scientific developments, clinical practice trends, and local healthcare regulations to anticipate impacts and drive appropriate internal adjustments.
• Ensure compliance with AstraZeneca policies, local regulatory requirements, and international codes governing medical activities.
• Represent AstraZeneca in key external medical and scientific forums, shaping the affiliate s reputation as a leader in science and patient care.
  
  

Critical Competencies

• Medical Expertise: Applies advanced clinical knowledge and judgement to inform decision-making.
• Regulatory & Compliance Acumen: Ensures all activities meet regulatory, ethical, and company standards.
• Strategic Leadership: Develops and executes strategic plans aligning business goals with patient needs.
• Communication & Collaboration: Communicates complex medical concepts and builds effective partnerships.
• Clinical Development & Oversight: Oversees clinical trials, monitors safety, and ensures data integrity.
• Decision Making & Problem Solving: Makes evidence-based decisions and resolves complex issues.
• Patient Centricity: Prioritizes patient safety, quality care, and ethical practices in all actions.
• Innovation & Change Management: Promotes innovative thinking and leads organizational change.
  
  

Essential For The Role

• Medical degree (MD, PharmD); postgraduate qualification is an advantage.
• Minimum of 8 years experience in Medical Affairs or related scientific roles within the pharmaceutical or biopharmaceutical industry, with at least 3 years in a leadership capacity.
• In-depth understanding of the local healthcare ecosystem, clinical practice, regulatory environment, and scientific trends within Gulf.
• Proven ability to engage and influence key opinion leaders, stakeholders, and decision-makers.
• Demonstrated expertise in leading medical strategy, scientific communication, and evidence generation.
• Excellent leadership, team management, and cross-functional collaboration skills
  
  

Desirable for the role

• Experience of working in a global organization, preferably within the pharmaceuticals industry, and knowledge of the drug development life cycle and commercial aspects of the industry
• Experience of working within a multi-disciplinary team and liaising with senior leaders
  
  

Why AstraZeneca?

At AstraZeneca we re dedicated to being a Great Place to Work. Where you are empowered to push the boundaries of science and unleash your entrepreneurial spirit. There s no better place to make a difference to medicine, patients, and society. An inclusive culture that champions diversity and collaboration, and always committed to lifelong learning, growth, and development. We re on an exciting journey to pioneer the future of healthcare.

So, what s next?

• Are you already imagining yourself joining our team? Good, because we can t wait to hear from you.