Head of Operations, AI for Science and Innovation

We're building a connected, end-to-end Enterprise AI engine - uniting data foundations, AI technology, process reinvention, and business-facing AI to accelerate results across the whole value chain. Success depends on being exceptional connectors: you'll actively leverage existing capabilities, celebrate and promote reuse, export breakthrough ideas across geographies and functions, and obsess over scaling impact rather than building in isolation. If you thrive in high-collaboration environments where your role is to turn complex, cross-functional problems into reusable, enterprise-wide capabilities - and where the measure of success is adoption and scale, not just innovation - you'll have the platform (and sponsorship) to make it real. 
 

At AstraZeneca, the AI for Science Innovation function accelerates our ability to design, develop, and scale AI‑powered solutions that advance scientific discovery and enable smarter, more effective R&D pipelines. We partner across functions, markets, and scientific domains to create integrated capabilities, ensure operational consistency, and empower teams to deliver high‑quality innovation at speed and scale. 
 

As the Head of Operations, AI for Science and Innovation you are responsible for the smooth, efficient, and high‑performing day‑to‑day functioning of the AI for Science Innovation organization. You will oversee operational processes, business administration, performance tracking, leadership communications, and organizational governance. You will also lead a central operations team—including business administrators—responsible for enabling organizational continuity, transparency, and operational discipline across all areas. This role will be accountable for ensuring efficient and optimized coordination of activities across programs, projects, springs, and special initiatives across AI for Science Innovation. 
 

This role ensures that the AI for Science Innovation team has the foundations, tools, processes, and visibility required to execute effectively and deliver impact. 
 

Key Responsibilities 

Operational Leadership & Organizational Management 

- Lead and optimize the day‑to‑day operations of the AI for Science Innovation team. 

- Build and manage a central operations team for portfolio delivery and functional performance. 

- Maintain operational rhythms, including leadership meetings, organizational performance reviews, and governance routines. 
 

Performance, Reporting & Portfolio Visibility 

- Oversee performance measurement frameworks, dashboards, and KPIs. 

- Ensure timely and accurate reporting for leadership and stakeholders. 

- Maintain visibility of the portfolio, priorities, resource allocation, and milestone progress. 

Project & Program Operations 

- Support operational execution of major initiatives within the portfolio. 

- Manage project tracking practices including risk management, issue escalation, and operational dependencies. 

- Facilitate alignment across global, regional, and functional teams. 

Operational Excellence & Process Improvement 

- Continuously refine operational processes to increase efficiency and accountability. 

- Embed consistent ways of working, documentation standards, and organizational clarity. 

- Support onboarding, capability-building, and knowledge‑management practices. 

Budget & Resource Management 

- Manage the operational budget, including allocation, forecasting, and spend tracking. 

- Partner with finance and functional leaders to optimize resource planning. 

Vendor & Partner Operations 

- Oversee operational management of external vendors, contractors, and partners. 

- Ensure effective onboarding, performance tracking, and compliance of external contributors. 

Leadership Communications & Stakeholder Coordination 

- Provide operational support to the AI for Science Innovation Leadership Team. 

- Prepare materials, briefings, and reporting packages. 

- Build strong cross‑functional relationships to support alignment and problem solving. 

Experience & Essential Skills 

- Bachelor’s degree. 

- 10+ years of relevant experience in operations within the pharmaceutical, healthcare, technology, or scientific innovation sectors. 

- Proven experience in operational leadership supporting complex technical or scientific organizations. 

- Experience overseeing performance management, reporting, portfolio visibility, and business administration. 

- Ability to build strong operational structures and drive clarity in fast‑moving, ambiguous environments. 

- Experience working with senior leaders (VP level and above). 

- Strong leadership, coaching, and team‑building capabilities. 

- Understanding of scientific, digital, or AI‑enabled innovation environments. 

- Excellent communication and organizational skills. 

- Results‑oriented with a focus on operational excellence and continuous improvement. 

- High integrity, sound judgment, and an ability to navigate complex global environments. 
 

Office Working Requirements 

When we put unexpected teams in the same room, we unleash bold thinking with the power to inspire life-changing medicines. In-person working gives us the platform we need to connect, work at pace and challenge perceptions. That's why we work, on average, a minimum of three days per week from the office. But that doesn't mean we're not flexible. We balance the expectation of being in the office while respecting individual flexibility. Join us in our unique and ambitious world.
 

The annual base pay for this position ranges from $  200 799,20 - 301 198,80 Annual USD. Base pay offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including market location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. In addition, our positions offer a short-term incentive bonus opportunity; eligibility to participate in our equity-based long-term incentive program. Benefits offered include a qualified retirement program [401(k) plan]; paid vacation and holidays; paid leaves; and, health benefits including medical, prescription drug, dental, and vision coverage in accordance with the terms and conditions of the applicable plans. 

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Our mission is to build an inclusive environment where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants and employees. In furtherance of that mission, we welcome and consider applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of their protected characteristics. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please complete the corresponding section in the application form.