Executive Director, Hepatology

Executive Director, Hepatology

The Respiratory, Immunology, and Inflammation Biology Unit (RIIBU) is seeking a talented and inspiring Executive Director, Hepatology to lead a team of biologists in the preclinical validation of targets, mechanism of action studies, identification of target-based biomarkers, indication expansion, and combination studies for the treatment of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) and alcohol-related liver disease (ALD). The Executive Director, Hepatology will report into the Head of RIIBU and work closely within the broader RII Research Unit and GSK matrix for internal research. The successful candidate will be accountable to identify and help to establish external academic collaborations and review business development opportunities to accelerate the hepatology portfolio. This role requires both a deep understanding of mechanisms driving disease progression and unmet need as well as expertise in human-derived preclinical model systems (e.g., complex in vitro models, tissues, and ex vivo studies) in MASH and ALD.

Key Responsibilities :

Scientific Leadership to optimally and efficiently progress an existing preclinical and clinical portfolio for MASH and ALD and to work with colleagues in Research Technologies (human genetics, genomics, and scaled target validation) to identify and progress novel targets addressing patient need. Monitor research and market trends, competitive landscape, and customer insights to identify opportunities and risks, and develop appropriate strategies to maximize market share and revenue.

Leadership for Hepatology Biology Team to :

Provide focus, direction and aligned clarity and create a culture of accountability, ensuring the team's resources are deployed in an efficient manner and aligned with the RII Research Unit strategy.

Foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement within the hepatology team and across the organization.

Create a culture of growth and development, ensuring the hepatology team develops and maintains the skills required to deliver in a digital age.

Build an engaged and resilient team, developing the managers in the hepatology team to provide the care, focus, motivation and development that every GSK employee deserves.

Cross-functional collaborations to perform efficient target selection and progression and support the existing clinical portfolio with key internal partners including the other disease-focused biology lines within RII Biology Unit, the clinical and translational teams within RII Research Unit, and Research Technology.

External partnerships : Establish and maintain strategic collaborations with academic institutions, contract research organizations (CROs), and other external partners to access cutting-edge technologies, complex model systems, bio-samples, and research capabilities. Foster a network of external experts and key opinion leaders to build an innovative, next generation preclinical portfolio and advance the existing clinical portfolio. Contribute to evaluation and diligence of business development opportunities.

Compliance and quality : Drive the discovery of innovative hepatology assets in MASH and ALD, ensuring compliance with relevant policies and adherence to quality standards.

Budget accountability : Lead the budgeting and resource allocation process for the hepatology portfolio, ensuring optimal utilization of resources and cost-effectiveness.

Basic Qualifications :

Ph.D. in relevant scientific discipline (e.g., Cell / Molecular Biology, Genetics, Pharmacology, Physical Chemistry or related field) with extensive experience in hepatology biology and pharmaceutical research.

10+ years of experience in the pharmaceutical industry, with a focus on hepatology therapeutics and appropriate knowledge of target mechanisms in clinical trials.

Experience in leading and managing other leaders.

Experience leading and managing external collaborations and diligence of business development opportunities.

Proven track record of experience successfully leading and managing a hepatology portfolio, including research contributions to product launches and lifecycle management.

Preferred Qualifications :

Strong knowledge of hepatology diseases, pathways and mechanisms, treatment guidelines, and market dynamics.

Strategic mindset with the ability to work with the Hepatology Disease Area Acceleration Team, the Hepatology Clinical Research Head, and aligned Early Development and Medicine Development Leaders to help interpret complex data and commercial trends, using biological and clinical insights to make informed decisions and provide advice on indication expansion and business development acquisitions.

Strong business acumen and understanding of commercial aspects, including marketing, sales, and market access.

Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to effectively engage with internal and external stakeholders.

Demonstrated ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment and manage multiple priorities.

Knowledge of regulatory requirements and compliance standards in the pharmaceutical industry.

This role offers a hybrid work model, combining on-site collaboration with remote flexibility.