Head of Early Development Asset Operations in London

About Ipsen

Ipsen is a mid‑sized global biopharmaceutical company focused on transformative medicines in Oncology, Rare Disease, and Neuroscience. With nearly 100 years of development experience and global hubs in the U.S., France, and the U.K., Ipsen tackles high unmet medical need through research and innovation. Passionate teams in over 40 countries work to bring medicines to patients in 88 countries, fostering a culture of collaboration, excellence, and impact.

Job Title

Senior Director, Head of Early Development Asset Operations

Location

France (Ballard) or the U.K. (London)

Summary

The Senior Director, Head of Early Development Asset Operations will belong to the Asset Operations organization within Global Portfolio Operations (GPO) and report to the VP of Asset Operations. This role acts as Project Manager and single point of accountability for operational support to the Early Development asset teams, leads a team of Project Managers, drives cross‑functional collaboration across the portfolio, and promotes continuous improvement and process optimization.

Main Responsibilities / Job Expectations

1. Act as Project Manager (AOL) for Early Development programs.

   • Serve as single point of accountability for operational project management.
   • Apply the Asset Centric Model framework to ensure accurate and timely delivery of project objectives.
   • Use standard project methodology, lead monthly operational meetings, and maintain a fully integrated cross‑functional project plan.
   • Track progress, raise red flags, and advise on governance expectations.
   • Facilitate science‑based decision making, construct development scenarios, and highlight interdependencies.
   • Prepare progress reports and decision‑making material for governance bodies, stakeholders, and senior management.
   • Manage project budget and resource plan in partnership with Finance and other stakeholders.
   • Track budget, expenses, and resources; raise red flags when necessary.
   • Ensure all supportive materials for tax credit requests are delivered on time.
   • Maintain a project document repository and ensure easy access to all relevant materials.
   • Foster high‑performing teams, monitor health and efficiency, and support team members with resources and guidance.
   • Collaborate with strategic alliance partners for jointly developed projects.

2. Lead and manage a team of Project Managers to deliver excellence across the Early Development portfolio.

   • Set measurable objectives and KPIs for each team member.
   • Facilitate regular one‑on‑one meetings, provide feedback, and recognize achievements.
   • Provide day‑to‑day strategic guidance and ensure availability of resources.
   • Model accountability, resilience, and problem‑solving within the team.
   • Identify strengths and growth areas, support tailored development plans.
   • Foster a collaborative, high‑performing culture focused on accountability and professional growth.

3. Drive cross‑functional collaboration to support Early Development portfolio advancement.

   • Collaborate with clinical, regulatory, CMC, commercial, finance, and governance leaders.
   • Develop and maintain a clear roadmap aligned with strategic priorities.
   • Update the roadmap to reflect new developments and regulatory updates.
   • Ensure unified portfolio decisions and cross‑department alignment on priorities and resource allocation.
   • Oversee portfolio health, performance, budgets, and timelines.
   • Delegate responsibilities and empower team members to make informed decisions.
   • Encourage autonomy while providing guidance and oversight.

4. Promote Process Optimization & Best Practices.

   • Drive adoption of project management tools, methodologies, and best practices.
   • Identify and implement process enhancements to improve efficiency and reduce risk.
   • Ensure compliance with documentation, reporting, and regulatory requirements.
   • Facilitate knowledge sharing across programs; encourage sharing of lessons learned.
   • Promote a culture of continuous learning to refine approaches and enhance portfolio performance.

Knowledge, Abilities & Experience

• Minimum bachelor’s degree; advanced business or science degree preferred. PhD desirable.
• 15+ years in biotech, pharma, or health care, including 5+ years in project management or leadership of cross‑functional matrix teams.
• Experience at a global drug development level with knowledge of development through commercialization.
• Prior people‑management experience.
• Languages: English required; French ideal.

Key Technical Competencies Required

• Robust background in pharmaceutical R&D project management and team leadership.
• Proven project management skills and ability to drive team alignment.
• Deep understanding of Ipsen’s therapeutic focus areas.
• Strong cross‑functional team management and influence skills.
• High emotional intelligence and conflict resolution ability.
• Excellent communication with all organization levels.
• Analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Proficiency in Word, Excel, PowerPoint, MS Project, Teams, SharePoint.
• Ability to work in a fast‑paced environment and manage multiple projects while maintaining quality.
• Flexible, independent problem‑solving and self‑direction.
• Effective management of confidential information.

EEO Commitment

We are committed to creating a workplace where everyone feels heard, valued, and supported, embracing diverse perspectives. Inclusion and equal opportunities are foundational values. If you require any adjustments or support during the application process, please let the recruitment team know. This information will be handled with care and will not affect the outcome of your application.