The Opportunity

Doubling down on investment in R&D (Research & Development) doesn‘t automatically lead to increased outcomes and patient benefits. In fact, the last two decades the Pharma Industry has seen higher R&D costs, a reduced rate of approvals, and fewer commercial opportunities for new drugs. 

Moreover, in an environment characterized by disruption, we need a high level of financial flexibility to pivot quickly as new opportunities emerge. In other words, we cannot do more of the same and expect better results.

R&D AI Finance Leads are director level business-savvy professionals who can put themselves in the shoes of their stakeholders to drive R&D productivity and smart investment decisions, enhancing the value of our portfolio. These individuals catalyze cross-collaboration between R&D units and bring a holistic, end-to-end view across the enterprise. Their touch points along the whole value chain will be combined with a network that drives business results. Drawing from a deep well of Finance excellence skills, as well as communication and storytelling skills, R&D AI Finance Leads challenge the status quo, have eye-level conversations, and help stakeholders to navigate the polarities of a complex world.

With Artificial Intelligence (AI) rapidly emerging as a core strategic priority across R&D, we are seeking a finance professional to serve as a dedicated partner for these pivotal initiatives. 

Key Responsibilities:

• Serve as a strategic thought partner to senior stakeholders for Agentic AI projects in R&D, ensuring alignment on business case assumptions and financial strategy.

• Lead the definition of financial performance measurement (investments, savings tracking, ROI) for such projects, including ongoing KPI reporting and actionable recommendations.

• Architect and co-create future-state financial workflows (Forecasting, governance reviews) for an agentic operating model.

• Own the business case for R&D AI investments, including updates on investments, savings reporting, and funding strategies.

• Work closely with Accounting and RDT Finance to define accounting treatments of AI-related investments.

• Drive key finance deliverables, including preparation for senior leadership updates 

• Proactively develop headcount plans and resource allocation strategies to ensure successful portfolio delivery and alignment with organizational goals.

Who You Are:

• 10+ years of international finance experience with a proven track record in financial stewardship and governance (or deep technical/data science expertise with a strong affinity for finance).

• Strong passion for AI and digital solutions. 

• Visionary mindset and strategic agility to anticipate changing landscapes, envision the future of finance and the business, and lead teams in developing and executing long-term initiatives with adaptable solutions.

• Proven track record of architecting innovative solutions and operational frameworks (including process design and systems engineering).

• Demonstrated excellence in influencing decision-making at senior management levels, supported by strong communication and collaboration skills.

• Ability to handle high-level strategy while also thinking through details and connecting the dots.

• End-to-End ownership: Capable of driving efforts across the R&D value chain with broad impact.

• Relationship builder: Proven success in establishing and maintaining trustful partnerships with stakeholders in a global environment.

The expected salary range for this position, based on the primary location in California, is $156,800 - $291,200. Actual pay will be determined based on experience, qualifications, geographic location, and other job-related factors permitted by law.  A discretionary annual bonus may be available based on individual and Company performance.  This position also qualifies for the benefits detailed at the link provided below.

Relocation benefits are not available for this position.

Genentech is an equal opportunity employer. It is our policy and practice to employ, promote, and otherwise treat any and all employees and applicants on the basis of merit, qualifications, and competence. The company's policy prohibits unlawful discrimination, including but not limited to, discrimination on the basis of Protected Veteran status, individuals with disabilities status, and consistent with all federal, state, or local laws.

If you have a disability and need an accommodation in relation to the online application process, please contact us by completing this form Accommodations for Applicants.