[Hiring] Associate Director, Scientific Communications @Otsuka Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.

Role Description

The Associate Director, Scientific Communications (CNS) supports the implementation and execution of the global scientific communications strategy for assigned therapeutic area assets. This role contributes to the delivery of integrated, data-driven medical communications plans that translate complex scientific data into clear, compelling, and impactful content for healthcare professionals and internal stakeholders.

This position reports directly to the Director, Scientific Communications (CNS).

Key Responsibilities

• Global Scientific Communications Strategy
  • Support the implementation and execution of globally aligned medical communications strategies across assigned CNS assets.
  • Support the implementation of communication priorities aligned with asset strategy, lifecycle stage, and evolving external landscape.
  • Translate scientific and clinical insights into effective communication approaches.
  • Partner with cross-functional stakeholders to ensure alignment with asset-level priorities.
• Integrated Medical Communications Planning
  • Support cross-functional communication planning efforts.
  • Contribute to development of Medical Communication Plans including content and communication channel strategy.
  • Support congress planning and execution.
  • Track execution of communication deliverables.
• Scientific Narrative & Content Strategy
  • Support development of Scientific Communication Platform (SCP).
  • Ensure consistency and scientific rigor across content.
  • Develop key materials such as disease state, field content, and congress materials.
• Content Design, Delivery & Innovation
  • Support digital and omnichannel engagement strategies.
  • Collaborate on development of innovative communication formats.
  • Contribute to AI-enabled and digital innovations.
  • Ensure audience-focused design.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration
  • Contribute within cross-functional asset teams.
  • Translate clinical data into communication outputs.
  • Ensure alignment of messaging globally.
• Governance, Compliance & Quality Excellence
  • Ensure all communications are scientifically accurate, evidence-based, and compliant with internal policies and external regulations.
  • Follow governance frameworks for content development, review, and lifecycle management.
  • Maintain high standards of quality, consistency, and ethical communication practices.
• Operational & Agency Management
  • Assist with annual scope-of-work planning and resource allocation for scientific communications deliverables.
  • Support the team with agency partnerships, including selection, contracting, performance management, and optimization.
  • Support operational excellence, process improvements, and scalable content development models.
  • Ensure efficient delivery of high-quality outputs within budget and timelines.
• Leadership & Organizational Impact
  • Manage and develop Managers, and/or cross-functional contributors.
  • Foster a culture of scientific excellence, innovation, accountability, and collaboration.
  • Contribute to organizational capability in scientific communications, including best practice sharing and process standardization.
  • Promote a learner-first, inclusive mindset in content development and team culture.
• Continuous Improvement & External Awareness
  • Stay current with advancements in scientific communications, digital engagement, and the external healthcare landscape.
  • Gather and implement best practices across regions to drive consistency and innovation.
  • Use insights, analytics, and stakeholder feedback to continuously optimize communication strategies and execution.

Qualifications

• Advanced degree required (PharmD, MD, PhD, or equivalent in science, medicine, or related field).
• Minimum of 7+ years of experience in Medical Affairs, Scientific Communications, or related roles within the pharmaceutical/biotechnology industry.
• Minimum of 3+ years of prior leadership experience, including development and management of team members.
• Demonstrated experience supporting global communication strategies and integrated planning processes.
• Strong experience leading cross-functional teams and influencing stakeholders.
• Experience in the CNS therapeutic area strongly preferred.

Requirements

• Proven ability to translate complex scientific data into clear, strategic communication plans.
• Strong leadership and facilitation skills, including ability to chair cross-functional teams.
• Expertise in content strategy, omnichannel engagement, and digital communication tools.
• Strong project management capabilities, with experience managing multiple high-priority initiatives simultaneously.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills with executive presence.
• Strategic mindset with strong business acumen and ability to align scientific communications with enterprise goals.
• Experience leveraging innovation, including AI and digital tools, to enhance content development and delivery.

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, prescription drug coverage.
• Company provided basic life, accidental death & dismemberment, short-term and long-term disability insurance.
• Tuition reimbursement and student loan assistance.
• A generous 401(k) match.
• Flexible time off, paid holidays, and paid leave programs.
• Other company provided benefits.