China External Innovation & Incubator Lead

Novo Nordisk; Shanghai (VA); On-site; USD 180,000 - 240,000; Full time

Job summary

Novo Nordisk seeks an accomplished innovation professional to lead external innovation sourcing and ecosystem engagement in China, building a broad network across academia, biotech, venture capital, incubators and the life science ecosystem to identify breakthrough opportunities for future R&D pipelines.

The role includes leading incubator and open innovation programs in China, leveraging partnerships and startup engagement to generate high-quality early-stage opportunities and to drive the

Qualifications

• PhD or equivalent advanced degree in life sciences or related field.
• 8+ years experience in biotech/pharma R&D, business development, venture investment, or external innovation.
• Strong knowledge of China's biotech and innovation ecosystem.
• Proven ability to build influential networks across startups, academia, investors and industry.
• Understanding of drug discovery and development processes from target identification to preclinical candidate selection.
• Excellent stakeholder management, communication and strategic thinking capabilities.

Responsibilities

• Build and manage Novo Nordisk's external innovation sourcing network across China.
• Establish strategic relationships with biotech companies, academic institutions, investors, incubators and accelerators.
• Lead China-based incubator and open innovation programs, including ecosystem partnerships, opportunity sourcing and startup engagement.
• Drive innovation challenges, open calls, roadshows and ecosystem outreach activities to strengthen Novo Nordisk's presence within the innovation community.
• Work closely with global and local R&D stakeholders to advance opportunities from discovery to partnership discussions.
• Monitor industry trends, competitive intelligence and emerging innovation hubs to inform sourcing strategy.

Skills

Stakeholder management

Strategic thinking

Communication

Networking

Project management

Education

PhD or equivalent in Life Sciences/Biotech/Pharmacology/Drug Discovery/Medicine

Job description

Novo Nordisk seeks an accomplished innovation professional to lead external innovation sourcing and ecosystem engagement in China, building a broad network across academia, biotech, venture capital, incubators and the life science ecosystem to identify breakthrough opportunities for future R&D pipelines.

The role includes leading incubator and open innovation programs in China, leveraging partnerships and startup engagement to generate high-quality early-stage opportunities and to drive the