MSD
MSD

MSD is a global biopharmaceutical company advancing medicines and vaccines for major health challenges, including cancer, infectious diseases, cardiovascular and metabolic conditions, and prevention-focused care. Known as Merck & Co., Inc. in the United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico, MSD combines scientific research with development and commercial expertise to bring healthcare solutions to people and animals.

Its work spans Human Health, Animal Health, and Research & Development, creating opportunities for professionals across scientific, clinical, commercial, operational, and corporate teams. With activities in regions around the world, MSD’s careers reflect its focus on research, collaboration, inclusion, and responsible progress in global health.

Associate Director, Launch Excellence and Portfolio Capability Management

Lead global animal-health product launches, governance, and portfolio capability development for Merck. Coordinate cross-functional programs, management tools, and continuous improvement initiatives.

Description

  • Mobilize and execute Key Revenue Driver (KRD) launch squads
  • Act as the primary Launch Excellence contact for assigned KRD product launches
  • Identify Launch Leads with Marketing Leadership and coordinate Project Management resources
  • Aggregate launch status, risks, milestones, and key decisions across KRD programs
  • Give leadership an integrated view of launch performance and execution progress
  • Support Project Manager onboarding and training in Launch Excellence methods, tools, governance, and best practices
  • Organize and facilitate governance forums, leadership reviews, regional touchpoints, and internal operating meetings
  • Track launch performance, risks, dependencies, and critical milestones, escalating issues when needed
  • Inform portfolio decisions through launch insights, progress reports, and recommendations
  • Create, implement, and continually improve Launch Excellence capabilities, frameworks, and operating models
  • Enhance New Product Prioritization, Control Tower, IRIS, and other launch management tools and processes
  • Document and embed lessons learned from product launches
  • Lead functional and cross-functional process improvement initiatives
  • Monitor and report Launch Excellence KPIs
  • Increase awareness, adoption, and capability across global teams
  • Create and deliver training, communications, and enablement programs
  • Produce toolkits, playbooks, best practices, and knowledge-sharing materials
  • Oversee daily IRIS administration and governance activities
  • Protect launch data quality, reporting consistency, and portfolio visibility
  • Contribute to special projects and strategic initiatives
  • Collaborate with Commercial, R&D, Supply Chain, Manufacturing, Regulatory Affairs, Finance, and regional teams

Requirements

  • Bachelor’s degree is required
  • At least 5 years of experience in Launch Operations, PMO, Process Excellence, Commercial Operations, Capability Building, or a related field
  • Proven success managing complex cross-functional programs within a global matrix organization
  • Experience creating and implementing frameworks, methodologies, toolkits, or governance models
  • Strong knowledge of commercialization, launch management, portfolio management, and product development processes in Animal Health or related industries
  • Strong project and program management expertise
  • Ability to influence stakeholders and lead without direct authority
  • Strong executive communication, presentation, and storytelling abilities
  • Ability to turn complex information into clear, actionable guidance for senior leaders
  • Experience leading governance forums and decision-making activities
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities with a data-driven approach
  • Proficiency with Excel, Power BI, and other reporting and visualization tools
  • Highly organized, detail-focused, and effective in a fast-paced setting
  • Growth mindset with enthusiasm for continuous improvement, innovation, and organizational capability development
  • Required skills include adaptability, business case development, change management, data analysis tools, financial management, operations management, pharmaceutical industry knowledge, project management, results orientation, Six Sigma, strategic planning, and systems analysis
  • An advanced degree such as an MBA, MS, or equivalent is preferred
  • Experience with Microsoft Project, Smartsheet, Planisware, or comparable project management platforms is preferred
  • Visa sponsorship is available

Benefits

  • Annual bonus opportunity
  • Long-term incentive when applicable
  • Medical, dental, and vision coverage
  • Additional insurance benefits for employees and families
  • Retirement benefits, including a 401(k) plan
  • Paid holidays
  • Vacation time
  • Compassionate leave days
  • Sick days
  • Hybrid work arrangement
  • Visa sponsorship

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