Associate Director Strategy and Planning, Cancer Center, Haematology/Oncology at Aga Khan University (AKU)

Responsibilities

• Strategic Planning: Lead the development and execution of the Cancer Center's strategic plan; identify and integrate trends in cancer research and clinical trials into initiatives; facilitate partnerships in research; oversee stakeholder engagement with faculty, staff, patients, and external partners; and engage pharmaceutical partners to advance clinical trial activities
• Administrative Leadership: Oversee Cancer Center operations to ensure efficiency; mentor administrative staff, fostering excellence, collaboration, and continuous improvement
• Program Development and Implementation: Drive the creation and evaluation of new programs in cancer research, clinical trials, and prevention, ensuring they meet the established goals
• Clinical Research Unit (CRU) Leadership: Provide strategic leadership for the CRU core facility; engage pharmaceutical sponsors to enhance clinical trial acquisition; collaborate with stakeholders to meet research needs; and implement policies promoting ethics, quality, and compliance
• Strategy Execution: Translate strategic plans into actionable projects, developing metrics to monitor progress
• Partnerships and External Relations: Build relationships with research partners, donors, and government agencies; represent the Center in institutional planning and community engagement efforts; and secure funding through grants and philanthropy
• Compliance and Risk Management: Ensure regulatory compliance and risk mitigation for operations and strategies.
• Leadership and Culture: Promote the Center’s values, fostering a patient-centered, inclusive, and innovative environment for staff and faculty.

Requirements

• A PhD in Healthcare Administration, Business Administration, Public Health, or related field with at least 5 years of experience in leadership in a clinical research environment; or 
• An MD with clinical research experience and a leadership position in a clinical research unit for not less than 5 years; or
• A Master’s degree in Healthcare Administration, Business Administration, Public Health, or related field, with at least 8 years of experience in senior leadership in a clinical research environment; or
• A bachelor’s degree in a Clinical or Health related field with at least 10 years of experience in strategic management in the area of clinical operations, clinical research, and clinical trials
• Proven experience in strategic planning, administration, and operations management in a clinical research environment in academia or pharma;
• Strong financial acumen and experience with budget management
• Demonstrated ability to lead and manage large, multidisciplinary teams
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and relationship-building skills; and
• Knowledge of oncology care, clinical research, and clinical trials operations

Desired Personal Characteristics and Behaviour

• Strategic and visionary thinker, adept at translating complex ideas into actionable strategies.
• Strong leadership presence with the ability to inspire and motivate others.
• Collaborative and team-oriented, committed to fostering a positive and inclusive work environment.
• High level of integrity, professionalism, and commitment to ethical standards.