R&D Strategy Lead — AI-Driven Biopharma Transformation

Accenture; San Francisco (CA); On-site; USD 123,000 - 317,000; Full time

Job summary

Accenture seeks a Senior Manager or Principal Director to lead end-to-end R&D strategy engagements for biopharma clients, driving transformation and measurable impact. You will partner across Accenture businesses to deliver AI-enabled discovery, development, and operations strategies while expanding the firm’s R&D capabilities.

You are an R&D expert with strong consulting background, capable of leading multi-disciplinary teams, developing business, and communicating with C-suite

Qualifications

• 8+ years in Life Sciences R&D strategy or transformation
• Proven track record leading strategy engagements with measurable outcomes
• Experience presenting to C-suite and senior R&D stakeholders
• Strong understanding of AI, data, digital tech in biopharma
• Experience driving business development and pipeline growth
• Able to lead cross-functional teams and mentor juniors
• Willingness to travel domestically and internationally

Responsibilities

• Lead complex R&D strategy engagements from framing to delivery with measurable client impact.
• Advise on R&D transformation priorities including strategy, pipeline, data and AI integration.
• Develop strategic recommendations and roadmaps for Heads of R&D and senior stakeholders.
• Shape program lifecycle, ensure quality and delivery excellence on large-scale engagements.
• Grow senior client relationships across biopharma R&D functions.
• Partner with broader Accenture teams to tailor expertise for each engagement.
• Originate opportunities, lead proposals, and contribute to pipeline growth in Life Sciences R&D.
• Identify adjacent opportunities and expand existing client relationships across the value chain.
• Represent Accenture's R&D Strategy view in client briefings and industry forums.
• Develop thought leadership on R&D transformation and AI-driven discovery.

Skills

R&D strategy

Business development

Client relationships

Cross-functional leadership

Communication

Travel flexibility

Education

Bachelor's degree

Job description

Accenture seeks a Senior Manager or Principal Director to lead end-to-end R&D strategy engagements for biopharma clients, driving transformation and measurable impact. You will partner across Accenture businesses to deliver AI-enabled discovery, development, and operations strategies while expanding the firm’s R&D capabilities.

You are an R&D expert with strong consulting background, capable of leading multi-disciplinary teams, developing business, and communicating with C-suite