Medical Lead (Breast Cancer), Bryanston

AstraZeneca; South Africa; On-site; ZAR 500 000 - 800 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading biopharmaceutical company in South Africa is seeking a field-based scientific expert in oncology for Medical Affairs. Responsibilities include executing strategic plans for product launches, engaging with healthcare professionals, and contributing to evidence-generation initiatives. The ideal candidate is a qualified Medical Doctor or holds an MSc/PhD, has 3-5 years of experience in a medical affairs role, and possesses excellent presentation and communication skills. This role emphasizes building relationships to improve patient outcomes.

Qualifications

• Minimum 3-5 years in a medical affairs role.
• Proven medical/scientific knowledge in the disease area.
• Understanding of multiple aspects within Medical Affairs.

Responsibilities

• Drive execution of Medical Affairs Plans for pre-launch and newly launched products.
• Build professional relationships with healthcare professionals.
• Deliver presentations to stakeholders.

Skills

Communication skills

Project management

Scientific knowledge

Ability to travel

Education

Qualified Medical Doctor or MSc/PhD

Job description

About AstraZeneca

AstraZeneca is a global, innovation‑driven biopharmaceutical company that focuses on the discovery, development and commercialization of prescription medicines for serious diseases. We are dedicated to being a Great Place to Work, empowering employees to push scientific boundaries, embrace entrepreneurial spirit, and commit to lifelong learning. Our inclusive culture champions diversity, collaboration, and patient‑first values.

About the Medical Affairs team

The medical team is high‑performing and combines deep medical expertise with strategic insight in a fast‑paced, dynamic environment. We thrive on problem‑solving, agile enterprise mindset, and accountability to deliver results for patients and the organization.

What you will do

Act as a catalyst for change by leveraging understanding of the healthcare system—including priorities, clinical pathways, and patient journeys—to gather actionable insights and execute medical strategic plans. Drive scalable transformations in clinical practice, improve patient access to high‑quality care, and facilitate adoption of innovative medicines.

Build and strengthen professional relationships with healthcare professionals and key stakeholders in alignment with the Integrated Engagement Plan. Provide credible, up‑to‑date scientific, technical, and pharmaco‑economic information through discussions, medically led meetings, and expert activities that inspire confidence. Participate in or lead evidence‑generation initiatives that support broader medical strategy.

Job Description

As a field‑based scientific expert in oncology, you will drive the execution of Medical Affairs Plans for both pre‑launch and newly launched products and indications. Shape clinical practice through scientific engagement, partnerships, and collaboration—traditional and non‑traditional stakeholders alike—to champion improved patient outcomes and safe use of AstraZeneca medicines.

Typical Accountabilities

Scientific Expertise

• Maintain clinical/scientific expertise in disease‑state management, AstraZeneca products, emerging therapies, and the competitive landscape.
• Contribute to development and provide project leadership/management of the Therapeutic Area Field Medical Strategic Plan.
• Act as a subject‑matter expert/resource for internal and external stakeholders.
• Work with internal stakeholders to develop training and mentoring within the therapeutic area.

Scientific Exchange

• Engage in peer‑to‑peer dialogue with key customers and deliver appropriate clinical/scientific content through the correct channel mix.
• Respond to unsolicited customer inquiries with balanced clinical information supporting safe use of AstraZeneca products.
• Provide scientific/clinical support and deliver presentations to stakeholders.
• Identify and establish relationships with key customers and scientific leaders for ongoing dialogue on AstraZeneca products and development compounds.
• Organize and facilitate scientific events such as MSL events, symposiums, advisory boards, and Meet the Professor sessions, prioritizing relevance to the patient journey.
• Deliver informative lectures at scientific events tailored to healthcare professionals, aligning with field medical communication strategy.
• Collaborate with KEEs on study proposals and/or publications of interest to AstraZeneca.

Customer Insights and Strategic Relationships

• Identify, gather, analyze, synthesize, report, and forward relevant new knowledge about the external scientific/medical environment.
• Provide internal stakeholders with actionable items related to medical/product strategy based on customer perspectives.
• Partner with traditional and non‑traditional stakeholders to identify gaps in the patient experience journey.

Essential Skills and Experience Required

• Qualified Medical Doctor or completed MSc/PhD in a scientific discipline.
• Minimum 3–5 years in a medical affairs role.
• Proven medical/scientific knowledge in the disease area.
• Interest in a long‑term career in the pharmaceutical industry.
• MSc/PhD advantageous.
• Understanding of multiple aspects within Medical Affairs.
• Project management experience.
• Excellent presentation and communication skills.
• Ability to travel.
• Fluency in English required.

Why AstraZeneca

AstraZeneca is recognized as Top Employer in several African countries and Best Place to Work in others. We are proud of our second‑place ranking in Best Places to Work for Africa in consecutive years, reflecting our commitment to employee engagement, innovation, and fostering an inclusive workplace.

So What’s Next?

Are you already imagining yourself joining our team? Good, because we can’t wait to hear from you!

Apply no later than 31 July 2025 and we’ll be in touch as soon as possible.

Where can I find out more?

Follow AstraZeneca on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/1603/

Follow AstraZeneca on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/astrazenecacareers/

Dates

Date Posted: 08-Dec-2025

Closing Date: 15-Jan-2026

Close Date: 31/07/2025

EEO Statement

AstraZeneca embraces diversity and equality of opportunity. We are committed to building an inclusive team representing all backgrounds, with a wide range of perspectives, and harnessing industry‑leading skills. We welcome and consider applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of characteristics, and comply with applicable non‑discrimination laws, work authorization, and eligibility verification requirements.