Job Description

As the Executive Director, Medical Operations – External Research at BioNTech, you will play a pivotal role in advancing our mission to revolutionize medicine. You’ll hold end-to-end accountability for all BioNTech-funded external research activities across multiple regions and therapeutic areas. By shaping global frameworks, standards, and governance for external research, your leadership will directly contribute to impactful evidence generation that aligns with our strategic goals. Working closely with cross-functional teams and senior leadership, you’ll drive innovation in medical operations while ensuring compliance and excellence.

Imagine yourself as part of a dynamic environment where your expertise influences our global portfolio of investigator-initiated studies (IIS), collaborative research studies (CRS), and post-marketing programs. Your work will directly impact our ability to address unmet medical needs and improve health outcomes worldwide.

Your Contribution:

• Lead the strategy, prioritization, and management of BioNTech’s global external research portfolio across IIS, CRS, Phase IV/PASS programs.
• Collaborate with Medical Affairs, Clinical Development, Market Access, and Commercial teams to define and execute a multi-year cross-indication external research strategy.
• Establish global standards for external research processes and governance while driving harmonization across regions.
• Ensure efficient and compliant execution of external research programs by leading cross-functional project teams.
• Develop robust financial frameworks for forecasting, milestone payments, and resource utilization aligned with corporate priorities.
• Drive strategic initiatives such as improving governance models and building data/RWE platforms.

A Good Match:

• Advanced degree in life sciences or health-related disciplines (e.g., MD, PharmD, PhD) preferred; bachelor’s degree with extensive relevant experience also considered.
• Extensive experience (12–15+ years) in clinical research or Medical Affairs within biopharma or academic settings.
• Proven track record in managing large-scale multinational study portfolios including IIS and RWE programs.
• Strong leadership skills in matrix organizations; ability to influence without direct line authority.
• Deep knowledge of ICH GCP guidelines, regulatory standards, and ethical compliance requirements.
• Exceptional negotiation abilities with academic institutions and vendors at a global level.
• Strategic mindset paired with financial acumen for budget ownership and scenario analysis.

At BioNTech, we value individuals who thrive in dynamic environments and are driven by innovation. Join us to shape the future of medicine while advancing your career meaningfully.

Your benefits and remuneration:

Expected Pay Range: $221,700-$354,700/year plus benefits, annual bonus & equity (bonus and equity is variable and dependent on company and individual performance). Compensation for the role will depend on several factors, including responsibilities of the job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities.

BioNTech US is committed to employee wellbeing and offers best-in-class benefits & HR programs to support an inclusive & diverse workforce. Salaried/Position-Targeted Hourly Employees working 30+ hours per week are eligible for our comprehensive benefits package. Benefits include but are not limited to:

• Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance
• Life, AD&D, Critical Illness Insurance
• Pre-tax HSA & FSA, DCRA Spending Accounts
• Employee Assistance & Concierge Program (EAP) available 24/7
• Parental and Childbirth Leave & Family Planning Assistance
• Sitterstream: Virtual Tutoring & Childcare Membership
• Paid Time Off: Vacation, Sick, Bereavement, Holidays (including Floating) & Year-End U.S. Shutdown.
• 401(K) Plan with Company Match
• Tuition Reimbursement & Student Loan Assistance Programs
• Wellbeing Incentive Platforms & Incentives
• Professional Development Programs
• Commuting Allowance and subsidized parking
• Discounted Home, Auto & Pet Insurance

…and more! More details to be shared.

Berkeley Heights is New Jersey's growing hub within the life sciences industry and has already demonstrated the state’s commitment to innovation, collaboration, and excellence within the field. New Jersey's integrated approach to biotechnology and pharmaceuticals harmonizes academic rigor, industrial capability, and government support to create thriving conditions for a growing ecosystem. Cultivating an environment that seamlessly integrates cutting-edge research, robust manufacturing capabilities, and a dynamic business landscape, New Jersey has become a powerhouse in pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and medical technology. As this region of New Jersey continues to develop, it stands ready to shape the future of medical science and technology, driving progress and improving health outcomes worldwide.

Apply now - We look forward to your application!

Apply for our New Jersey, US location and simply send us your documents using our online form.

By submitting your application, you acknowledge that a background check will be conducted as part of the recruitment process in accordance with applicable laws and regulations. If you are considered for the position, BioNTech will conduct the background check through our service provider ‘HireRight’. You will be informed accordingly by your BioNTech-Recruiter.

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