Associate Director, Scientific Communications (CNS)

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.

The Associate Director contributes to the development of disease state and asset-level scientific narratives and partners with cross-functional teams to support alignment across content, communication channels, and external engagement approaches. This role collaborates closely with stakeholders across Medical Affairs, Clinical Development, Evidence Generation, Regulatory, and Commercial functions to ensure delivery of scientifically accurate, compliant, and effective communications.

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

Education and Experience

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.

Skills and Competencies

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.

Competencies

Accountability for Results - Stay focused on key strategic objectives, be accountable for high standards of performance, and take an active role in leading change.

Strategic Thinking & Problem Solving - Make decisions considering the long-term impact to customers, patients, employees, and the business.

Patient & Customer Centricity - Maintain an ongoing focus on the needs of our customers and/or key stakeholders.

Impactful Communication -  Communicate with logic, clarity, and respect. Influence at all levels to achieve the best results for Otsuka.

Respectful Collaboration - Seek and value others’ perspectives and strive for diverse partnerships to enhance work toward common goals.

Empowered Development - Play an active role in professional development as a business imperative.

Minimum $169,222.00 - Maximum $253,000.00, plus incentive opportunity: The range shown represents a typical pay range or starting pay for individuals who are hired in the role to perform in the United States. Other elements may be used to determine actual pay such as the candidate’s job experience, specific skills, and comparison to internal incumbents currently in role. Typically, actual pay will be positioned within the established range, rather than at its minimum or maximum. This information is provided to applicants in accordance with states and local laws.

Application Deadline : This will be posted for a minimum of 5 business days.

Company benefits:  Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, prescription drug coverage, company provided basic life, accidental death & dismemberment, short-term and long-term disability insurance, tuition reimbursement, student loan assistance, a generous 401(k) match, flexible time off, paid holidays, and paid leave programs as well as other company provided benefits.

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Disclaimer: 

This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of the work being performed by the people assigned to this position. It is not intended to include every job duty and responsibility specific to the position. Otsuka reserves the right to amend and change responsibilities to meet business and organizational needs as necessary.

Otsuka is an equal opportunity employer.  All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will be given consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, gender identity or gender expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, religion, national origin, veteran status, marital status, or any other legally protected characteristic.

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