New Product Planning Director BBU International

AstraZeneca

Location: Dubai UAE

Are you ready to make a bold impact in the world of biopharmaceuticals? As the International New Product Planning Director for Biopharma, youll play a pivotal role in accelerating the commercial roll-out of New Molecular Entities (NMEs) and Line Extensions (LEs) within BBU Therapeutic Areas. This is your chance to lead regional efforts and shape the future of healthcare.

The NPP Director will lead the International Cross-Functional team to assess NME/LE potential in International (Ex-China), prioritise markets within the wave plan and find opportunities to realising accelerated commercial uptake & broad access for future launches. They will test commercial launch viability within International markets, and get ILT endorsement for no-go recommendations. In doing so, they will be a key member of the team completing the Project specific Wave Plan Assessment and roll-out plans for all upcoming launches within Biopharma. It will be essential to develop a deep understanding of BBU R&D pipeline, the science driving our future assets, the Global TA strategies and the in-line Regional portfolio of brands.

Accountabilities

• Serve as the Regional Process Owner for the International Launch Viability Assessment (iLVA) process, part of the broader Project Wave Plan Assessment for Biopharma NMEs/LEs in International markets (excluding China).
• Collaborate with EMRADs to improve MCs capabilities related to Project Wave Plan Assessment and iLVA.
• Build partnerships with Early Commercial Asset leads within BBU to gain a deep understanding of the BBU R&D pipeline, the science driving future assets, and Global TA strategies.
• Represent International on MC3 working groups and act as a key contact for GPTs for all NMEs within Biopharma.
• Lead the International Cross-Functional team to implement the iLVA process for NMEs/LEs within Biopharma, preparing for PH3ID/COMMID milestones related to BBU assets.
• Launch viability checklist, coordinate input from in-market teams, and consolidate recommendations for launch decisions as input to the Project Wave Plan Assessment.
• Collaborate with EMRADs, Medical, and Market Access to identify data requirements to accelerate registration, access/reimbursement, and prioritize markets within wave plans.
• Advise GPTs on risks related to achieving fast and broad access and enhancing commercial success for NMEs/LEs; develop regional strategies to address these risks as part of pre-launch planning.
• Work closely with the International BD function to explore and evaluate new BD opportunities to complement Cardiovascular, Renal, and Metabolism portfolios across International markets.
• Support the VP International in shaping overall TA strategy, aligning closely with the broader BBU team.
• Provide input and support Region, Areas, and Markets in key business planning activities (RBUs, QBRs, ABUs).
  
  

• Demonstrated track record in new product planning or early asset/portfolio leadership within the pharmaceutical or biotechnology industry, including direct involvement in scientific due diligence, molecule/indication evaluation, and business case development for pipeline assets.
• Robust scientific acumen, anchored by a graduate degree in a life sciences field (e.g., Pharmacy, Medicine, Biology, Chemistry), with the ability to critically evaluate clinical data, scientific trends, and translational medicine to inform asset strategy and positioning.
• Proven experience in business development, in-licensing/out-licensing, or partnering, with a strong ability to identify, assess, and progress opportunities that drive pipeline and portfolio growth.
• Strong experience collaborating with R&D, Medical, Regulatory, and other scientific functions to guide asset development, target product profiles, and integrated evidence generation.
• Exceptional strategic and commercial insight, with a demonstrated ability to develop early pipeline brand strategies, forecast market opportunities, and navigate competitive, payer, and regulatory environments.
• Outstanding interpersonal and cross-functional leadership skills, capable of influencing diverse stakeholders, from scientists to senior commercial leaders, across multiple geographies.
• Advanced project management and analytical capabilities, including the ability to synthesize complex scientific, commercial, and market data into actionable recommendations that shape go/no-go decisions.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with an aptitude for presenting scientific, clinical, and business cases to both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Graduate degree in Life Sciences, Pharmacy, or related discipline required; an MBA, PhD, MD, or equivalent advanced qualification is highly desirable.
  
  

• Above country experience or experience in more than one market.
• Commercial experience in emerging markets including understanding of various healthcare systems and Regulatory, Access & Medical aspects of the pharmaceutical industry.
• Experience building and leading BD partnerships.