Head of Decision Science

Location: Boston
Posted on: June 23, 2025

Job Description:

By clicking the “Apply” button, I understand that my employment application process with Takeda will commence and that the information I provide in my application will be processed in line with Takeda’s Privacy Notice and Terms of Use . I further attest that all information I submit in my employment application is true to the best of my knowledge. Job Description We are seeking a dynamic, visionary leader to join the newly formed Commercial Analytics & Insights (CA&I) organization as Head of Decision Science team out of our Cambridge, MA office. As the Head of Decision Science, you will lead the development and implementation of advanced analytics capabilities that transform data into strategic insights across Takeda's commercial activities. You will oversee three critical teams: Measurement, Simulation & Optimization, Patient Finding & Target Prioritization, and Experimental Design and Innovation. Reporting to the Head of AI, Data and Decision Science, you will collaborate with cross-functional partners including Brand/Marketing, Sales, Market Access, Patient Services, Finance, and Medical teams to deliver actionable insights that drive business performance and enhance patient outcomes. How you will contribute: Vision Setting: Establish a forward-thinking vision and strategy for decision science that aligns with business priorities, incorporating AI methodologies to enhance predictive capabilities and operational efficiencies. Team Development: Build and lead a high-performing analytics team skilled in AI and machine learning techniques, ensuring delivery of actionable insights and impactful solutions. Innovation Advocacy: Champion a culture of innovation, data-driven decision-making, and accountability, encouraging the adoption of evolving technologies to enhance analytics capabilities Lead and develop a high-performing team of data scientists, analysts, and decision science professionals across the various decision science functions Foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement within the Decision Science organization Provide mentorship and professional development opportunities to build team capabilities and advance careers Partner with the Head of AI, Data and Decision Science to align team objectives with overall data strategy and business goals Manage resource allocation across teams to optimize delivery of high-impact projects Lead measurement of historical performance and optimization of future spending to improve execution across business units Oversee development and application of solutions including Marketing Mix Models, Resource Allocation Optimization, Promotion Budget Simulation, and Test & Control methodologies Translate complex analytical findings into clear, actionable recommendations for senior business leaders Develop robust measurement frameworks that quantify ROI of commercial initiatives Implement predictive models to forecast outcomes of strategic decisions and identify optimal resource allocation Partner with commercial leadership to ensure analytics solutions address critical business challenges Collaborate with DD&T and other technology teams to ensure data infrastructure supports advanced analytics needs Work closely with Brand Heads and BU I&A teams to understand key business questions and then deliver timely actionable insights that facilitate decision-making Represent Decision Science in cross-functional leadership forums Demonstrate the value of decision science through clear communication of business impact and ROI Minimum Requirements/Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree required, Advanced degree highly preferred (Master's or PhD) in Data Science, Statistics, Operations Research, Economics, or related quantitative field; MBA is a plus 15 years of experience in analytics, data science, or related fields with at least 5 years in leadership roles required 10 years of experience in pharmaceutical or healthcare industry with understanding of data and analytics required Proven track record leading analytics teams in a matrix organization Experience implementing advanced analytics capabilities that drive business outcomes Demonstrated success in translating complex analyses into actionable business recommendations Deep expertise in statistical methods, predictive modeling, machine learning, and optimization techniques Strong understanding of marketing mix modeling, promotion response analysis, and resource allocation optimization Experience with patient finding and HCP targeting methodologies in pharmaceutical context Knowledge of experimental design methodologies and A/B testing frameworks Proficiency with analytics tools and languages (such as R, Python, SAS) Understanding of data visualization principles and tools Familiarity with cloud-based analytics environments and modern data architecture Knowledge of healthcare data sources and regulatory considerations Strong strategic thinking with ability to align analytics initiatives with business objectives Excellent communication skills with ability to translate complex analytical concepts to business stakeholders Demonstrated ability to build and develop high-performing, diverse teams Experience managing cross-functional projects & influencing without direct authority Business acumen with understanding of pharmaceutical commercial business Change management skills to drive adoption of analytics solutions Collaborative approach to working with business partners, BU Insights leaders and technology teams Travel Requirement- Occasional domestic overnight travel may be required More about us: At Takeda, we are transforming patient care through the development of novel specialty pharmaceuticals and best in class patient support programs. Takeda is a patient-focused company that will inspire and empower you to grow through life-changing work. Certified as a Global Top Employer, Takeda offers stimulating careers, encourages innovation, and strives for excellence in everything we do. We foster an inclusive, collaborative workplace, in which our teams are united by an unwavering commitment to deliver Better Health and a Brighter Future to people around the world. This position is currently classified as "hybrid" in accordance with Takeda's Hybrid and Remote Work policy. Takeda Compensation and Benefits Summary We understand compensation is an important factor as you consider the next step in your career. We are committed to equitable pay for all employees, and we strive to be more transparent with our pay practices. For Location: Boston, MA U.S. Base Salary Range: $208,200.00 - $327,140.00 The estimated salary range reflects an anticipated range for this position. The actual base salary offered may depend on a variety of factors, including the qualifications of the individual applicant for the position, years of relevant experience, specific and unique skills, level of education attained, certifications or other professional licenses held, and the location in which the applicant lives and/or from which they will be performing the job.The actual base salary offered will be in accordance with state or local minimum wage requirements for the job location. U.S. based employees may be eligible for short-term and/or long-termincentives. U.S.based employees may be eligible to participate in medical, dental, vision insurance, a 401(k) plan and company match, short-term and long-term disability coverage, basic life insurance, a tuition reimbursement program, paid volunteer time off, company holidays, and well-being benefits, among others. U.S.based employees are also eligible to receive, per calendar year, up to 80 hours of sick time, and new hires are eligible to accrue up to 120 hours of paid vacation. EEO Statement Takeda is proud in its commitment to creating a diverse workforce and providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, parental status, national origin, age, disability, citizenship status, genetic information or characteristics, marital status, status as a Vietnam era veteran, special disabled veteran, or other protected veteran in accordance with applicable federal, state and local laws, and any other characteristic protected by law. Locations Boston, MA Worker Type Employee Worker Sub-Type Regular Time Type Full time Job Exempt Yes It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

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