Director, Innovation Lead Development

Join to apply for the Director, Innovation Lead Development role at Alfasigma The Innovation Lead is responsible for identifying, assessing, and advancing scientific innovation opportunities originating from external companies, academic institutions, and innovation ecosystems. The role supports the development and execution of the Specialty Therapeutic Area (TA) strategy in Gastroenterology (GI) and Rheumatology/Immunology, working in close collaboration with Business Development (BD) and internal Development, Medical, and QRS functions. The Innovation Lead ensures a comprehensive scientific and medical evaluation of external opportunities, contributing expert insight to strategic decisions related to licensing, partnerships, and M&A, while shaping long-term innovation strategies aligned with Alfasigma's mid‐ and long‐term objectives and patient needs. Lead the scientific assessment and due diligence of external innovation opportunities, coordinating cross‐functional internal stakeholders to evaluate scientific value, development feasibility, risks, and integration pathways. Provide high‐level scientific and development expertise to support licensing, partnership, and M&A decisions. Develop and contribute to long‐term innovation strategies and early pipeline build‐up aligned with Alfasigma's strategy in GI and Rheumatology/Immunology. Define, maintain, and execute an innovation roadmap consistent with business priorities and unmet patient needs. Develop business cases and lead pilot initiatives for new technologies, services, platforms, or operating models. Build and maintain a strong external network including academic institutions, biotech companies, venture capital firms, startups, and innovation hubs to proactively scout high‐potential opportunities. Represent Alfasigma at scientific, innovation, and partnering events, including international congresses and external stakeholder meetings, strengthening the company's presence within the innovation ecosystem. Monitor and anticipate emerging trends in life sciences, digital health, and the broader healthcare ecosystem. Collaborate on Corporate R&D projects and cross‐functional initiatives as required. Minimum 10 years of experience in Pharma or Biotech R&D, including at least 8 years in leadership roles within discovery and/or development. Minimum 2 years of experience in external innovation scouting or open innovation activities. Experience leading cross‐functional and matrix teams on innovation‐driven programs. Experience working in or with startups, incubators, venture units, or innovation hubs. Background in digital health, SaaS, or data‐driven business models, with proven experience launching or scaling digital platforms, applications, or services. Exposure to M&A, licensing, and strategic partnerships within an open innovation framework. PhD and/or MD required. MBA or Executive MBA is considered a plus. Ability to promote and embed an innovation mindset and culture across the organization. Strong strategic thinking with a clear understanding of how science drives business value. Proven capability to lead and integrate input from complex, multidisciplinary matrix teams. Strong record of scientific innovation, demonstrated through publications and/or patents. Fluent English required; Proficient in Microsoft Office and key industry tools (e.g. SAP/Oracle, Clarivate or similar platforms). Alfasigma is a global pharmaceutical company founded over 75 years ago in Italy, where it is headquartered (in Bologna and Milan). and R&D labs in Italy (Pomezia and Bergamo). Alfasigma employs approximately 4,000 people dedicated to research, development, production, and distribution of medicinal products, contributing to its mission to provide better health and a better quality of life for patients, caregivers, and healthcare providers.