Senior Director Medical Affairs - MSD, Riyadh

MSD, a leading global biopharmaceutical company at the forefront of healthcare innovation, is seeking a highly experienced professional for a critical leadership role in Saudi Arabia. The company is recruiting for the position of Senior Director Medical Affairs to be based in its Riyadh office. This role represents an exceptional opportunity for ambitious medical professionals to join a pharmaceutical giant and contribute to shaping the healthcare landscape in the region.

Job Overview

The Senior Director of Medical Affairs will hold a pivotal strategic position within MSD's organizational structure in Saudi Arabia. This individual will be responsible for leading, developing, and executing the comprehensive medical strategy for the company's current and future product portfolio. The role serves as a key bridge between science and business operations, ensuring the highest standards of ethical and scientific compliance.

Key Responsibilities & Duties

• Strategic Leadership: Develop and lead the country medical strategic plan for Saudi Arabia, aligning with global and regional company objectives.
• Scientific Excellence: Provide deep scientific leadership and expertise for products in both pre- and post-marketing phases, supporting marketing and sales teams with accurate medical information.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Build and maintain strong relationships with Key Opinion Leaders (KOLs), academic institutions, and healthcare regulatory bodies in the Kingdom.
• Medical Development: Oversee the design and implementation of local studies and trials that support the therapeutic value of products.
• Compliance & Training: Ensure full compliance with local and international regulatory guidelines, industry codes, and company policies. Lead medical training initiatives for internal teams and relevant external stakeholders.
• Access Support: Provide critical scientific medical support for product access opportunities within the Saudi healthcare system.
• Team Leadership: Guide and develop the local Medical Affairs team, fostering an environment of collaboration and excellence.

Essential Qualifications & Requirements

• Educational Background: A Medical Doctor (MD) degree or a Doctorate (PhD) in a relevant biomedical or pharmaceutical science field.
• Experience: A minimum of 8-10 years of proven experience in Medical Affairs or related medical roles within the pharmaceutical industry.
• Leadership Experience: Prior experience in leading teams and managing medical strategies at a country or regional level.
• Regulatory Knowledge: Deep understanding of the regulatory and healthcare landscape in Saudi Arabia and the GCC region.
• Skills: Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills (both verbal and written) in English and Arabic. Strong strategic analysis and complex problem-solving abilities.
• Personal Attributes: High integrity, inspirational leadership, and the ability to thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.

Why Join MSD?

Joining MSD means becoming part of an organization committed to improving human health and discovering innovative therapies. The company offers a stimulating work environment that supports professional growth, along with a competitive compensation package that includes benefits commensurate with a leadership role.

How to Apply

Interested and qualified candidates are advised to apply primarily through specialized professional platforms like Naukrigulf, where the vacancy has been posted. Applicants should search for the "Senior Director Medical Affairs" position in the job section of Naukrigulf or on the official MSD careers portal. Preparation of a modern, professional Curriculum Vitae (CV) highlighting leadership experience and achievements in Medical Affairs is essential, accompanied by a tailored cover letter expressing interest and suitability for this specific role in Riyadh.

This position is an excellent opportunity for a high-caliber medical professional to make a tangible impact on patient health and drive scientific leadership in a vital and growing market like Saudi Arabia.