Sr Director, External Research & Innovation

Join a high-growth, innovation-driven organization in unique capacity, leading the global external research and innovation portfolio, shaping scientific strategy, building influential partnerships, and driving cutting-edge clinical and translational programs with meaningful real-world impact.About The RoleWe are seeking a strategic scientific leader to oversee and expand our external research and innovation portfolio across academic, clinical, CRO, and industry partnerships. This executive will drive research strategy, evidence generation, translational science initiatives, and collaborative programs that support scientific, regulatory, and commercial objectives.Key ResponsibilitiesLead external research strategy and partnership initiatives across preclinical, translational, and clinical research programs.Evaluate and manage research collaborations with academic institutions, CROs, healthcare organizations, and industry partners.Provide scientific oversight for clinical study design, biomarker strategy, data interpretation, and publication planning.Drive publication and scientific communication strategies, including manuscripts, presentations, and technical reports.Identify research opportunities that support innovation, product development, regulatory strategy, and business growth.Partner cross-functionally with scientific, regulatory, legal, commercial, and executive stakeholders.Lead and mentor a multidisciplinary research team while optimizing research operations and portfolio management processes.QualificationsAdvanced degree required (PhD, MD, DSc, or equivalent) in biomedical sciences, clinical research, nutrition, pharmacology, molecular biology, or related field.10+ years of experience across translational, clinical, and/or external research leadership.Strong experience managing external research collaborations, CROs, and academic partnerships.Demonstrated success in clinical research strategy, publication development, and scientific communications.Experience translating scientific evidence into business, regulatory, or commercial value.Excellent leadership, communication, and cross-functional collaboration skills.Preferred ExperienceExperience in biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, consumer health, longevity science, nutrition, or related industries.Knowledge of clinical operations, GCP, publication strategy, and evidence generation.Experience leading multidisciplinary scientific or clinical research teams.