Research and Development Office, Project Manager

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About Astellas

At Astellas we are a progressive health partner, delivering value and outcomes where needed. We pursue innovative science, focusing on areas of greatest potential and developing solutions where patient need is high, often in rare or under-served disease areas and in life-threatening diseases.

We work with patients, doctors and health care professionals to ensure patient and clinical needs guide our development activities. Our global vision for Patient Centricity is to support the development of innovative health solutions through understanding the patient experience. Patient Centricity is a guiding principle for action.

The Opportunity

In this role, you will act as a trusted advisor, collaborating with internal business partners to leverage strategic thinking, problem-solving, and project management to drive transformations. You will support the R&D division in enhancing business operations, including strategy development, capability evolution, technology modernization, and organizational change. You will assess processes, propose innovative solutions, and address challenges—ranging from organizational changes to business process improvements and application implementations.

Hybrid Working

We offer a hybrid working solution allowing time to connect with colleagues in the office alongside the flexibility to work from home, optimizing the productive work environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead / facilitate cross-functional teams in developing strategic options / solutions and business cases for organizational / process improvement projects.
• Secure endorsement and sponsor alignment for recommended solutions.
• Create a staged project implementation plan / roadmap with deliverables (e.g., system requirements, training materials, and the business-as-usual support model).
• Lead cross-functional execution within scope, on time and within cost.
• Identify, assess and manage risks throughout project lifecycle.
• Manage project costs, budgets, and reforecasting; alert sponsors of projected variances.
• Apply change management practices and communication to embed changes, including roles, processes, and systems.
• Ensure post-implementation reviews to capture lessons learned and benefits realization.

Essential Knowledge & Experience

• Strong track record of managing projects in the pharmaceutical industry or management consulting, focusing on R&D, clinical development, regulatory affairs, or medical affairs.
• Strong analytics for process improvement.
• Proven PM capabilities including timelines, budgets, and risk management.
• Excellent English communication skills; ability to interact at all levels.
• Demonstrated leadership in a matrix organization.

Preferred Knowledge & Experience

• Advanced degree (MBA, MS, or equivalent).
• Project management certification (PMP, Lean/Six Sigma, or equivalent).
• Knowledge of AGILE project delivery methodologies.

Education/Qualifications

• University degree in a relevant field or equivalent experience.

Additional Information

• This is a permanent role based in our Global Capability Centre in Warsaw, Poland with hybrid work; some office presence required. Candidates must be located within a commutable distance of the office.

Location

Warsaw, Mazowieckie, Poland