Role Overview for EVP, Head of Global Regulatory Policy with a Global Pharma Co. – Philadelphia, PA
JRG Partners is proud to lead the exclusive executive search for an Executive Vice President (EVP), Head of Global Regulatory Policy on behalf of our client, a preeminent, research-driven global pharmaceutical company. This pivotal leadership role, based at their corporate headquarters in the vibrant hub of Philadelphia, PA, represents a unique opportunity to shape the future of medicine by architecting the regulatory landscape on a global scale. The successful candidate will be a visionary leader, a strategic thinker, and a master of international regulatory environments, responsible for developing and executing a proactive, forward-looking global regulatory policy strategy that aligns with the company’s mission to deliver innovative therapies to patients worldwide.
As the most senior regulatory policy executive in the organization, you will report directly to the Chief Medical Officer and serve as a key member of the R&D leadership team. You will be the company’s chief diplomat and advocate to global health authorities, industry associations, and other critical external stakeholders. This role demands a profound understanding of the intricate interplay between science, law, politics, and business in the pharmaceutical sector. You will be tasked with anticipating shifts in the regulatory environment, interpreting their potential impact on the company’s extensive portfolio and pipeline, and translating these insights into actionable strategies that mitigate risk and create competitive advantages. Your leadership will be instrumental in ensuring the company not only complies with existing regulations but actively influences the development of future policies that support patient access and innovation.
This is more than a functional leadership position; it is a strategic imperative for the company’s long-term success. You will provide indispensable counsel to the C-suite and Board of Directors, guiding the organization through complex regulatory challenges and opportunities across diverse therapeutic areas and geographic regions. Your ability to build consensus internally and forge strong alliances externally will be paramount. We are seeking a transformative leader who can inspire a world-class team and champion a culture of regulatory excellence, foresight, and integrity across the enterprise.
Key Responsibilities of EVP, Head of Global Regulatory Policy with a Global Pharma Co. – Philadelphia, PA
Strategic Vision and Execution
Develop, articulate, and implement a comprehensive global regulatory policy and intelligence strategy. Proactively identify and prioritize key policy issues that could impact the company’s portfolio, R&D pipeline, and overall business objectives. Ensure the strategy is dynamic and responsive to the evolving global healthcare landscape.
External Engagement and Advocacy
Act as the company’s primary liaison and thought leader with key global health authorities, including the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the European Medicines Agency (EMA), Japan’s Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Agency (PMDA), and others. Cultivate and maintain robust, high-level relationships to foster mutual understanding and facilitate constructive dialogue.
Policy Shaping and Influence
Lead the company’s advocacy efforts to shape regulatory policy and legislation. Represent the company in major industry and trade associations (e.g., PhRMA, EFPIA, BIO), scientific organizations, and multi-stakeholder forums. Author and oversee the development of position papers, public comments, and other advocacy materials.
Regulatory Intelligence Leadership
Oversee the global regulatory intelligence function, ensuring the timely collection, analysis, and dissemination of critical information on emerging trends, regulations, and guidance documents. Translate intelligence into strategic insights and actionable recommendations for senior leadership and cross-functional teams.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Serve as a strategic partner to leaders across the organization, including R&D, Clinical Development, Medical Affairs, Commercial, Legal, and Government Affairs. Provide expert regulatory policy counsel to support global development programs, registration strategies, and lifecycle management activities.
Team Development and Mentorship
Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing global team of regulatory policy professionals. Foster a collaborative, innovative, and inclusive team culture that attracts and retains top-tier talent. Manage departmental budgets, resources, and operational priorities to maximize impact and efficiency.
Executive Counsel
Provide authoritative advice and strategic guidance to the executive leadership team and Board of Directors on critical regulatory policy matters, geopolitical trends, and their potential implications for the company’s strategic and financial plans.
Global Harmonization
Champion and contribute to global regulatory convergence and harmonization initiatives, working with international bodies like the International Council for Harmonisation (ICH) to promote efficient and predictable pathways for drug development and approval.
Requirements for the EVP, Head of Global Regulatory Policy with a Global Pharma Co. – Philadelphia, PA
Educational Background
An advanced degree (MD, PhD, PharmD, JD) is strongly preferred. A Bachelor’s degree in a scientific discipline is required.
Executive Experience
A minimum of 20 years of progressive experience within the pharmaceutical or biotechnology industry, with at least 10 years in a senior leadership role overseeing global regulatory affairs, policy, or a related function.
Global Expertise
Demonstrated, in-depth knowledge of the regulatory frameworks in key global markets (US, EU, Japan, China). Proven experience in developing and executing global regulatory strategies for a diverse portfolio of products, including small molecules, biologics, and advanced therapies.
Health Authority Relationships
An extensive and credible network of contacts within major global health authorities (FDA, EMA, etc.) is essential. Must have a proven track record of successful, high-level interactions and negotiations with these agencies.
Leadership Acumen
Exceptional leadership and management skills with a history of building, leading, and inspiring high-performing global teams. A strategic and visionary thinker with the ability to operate at both the 30,000-foot strategic level and the detailed tactical level.
Communication and Influence
Superior communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills. The ability to articulate complex scientific and regulatory concepts clearly and persuasively to a wide range of audiences, from scientists to board members to government officials. Proven ability to influence and build consensus in a matrixed organization.
Business Acumen
Strong understanding of the pharmaceutical business, including drug discovery, development, and commercialization processes. Ability to connect regulatory policy with broader business strategy and financial performance.
Location and Travel
Must be able to operate from the Philadelphia, PA headquarters. This role requires the ability to travel globally as needed (estimated 25-30%).
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to investing in its people and offers a truly world-class executive compensation and benefits package designed to attract and retain the industry’s best talent. This includes:
Executive Compensation
A highly competitive base salary, a significant annual performance-based bonus, and a substantial long-term incentive package (stock options and/or restricted stock units).
Comprehensive Health & Wellness
Premier medical, dental, and vision insurance plans for you and your eligible dependents. Access to executive health programs, an on-site fitness center, and comprehensive mental health and wellness resources.
Retirement & Financial Planning
An industry-leading 401(k) retirement plan with a generous company match, along with access to deferred compensation plans and personalized executive financial planning services.
Work-Life Integration
A generous paid time off (PTO) policy, company-paid holidays, and a commitment to supporting a healthy work-life balance through flexible work arrangements where appropriate.
Professional Growth
A substantial budget for professional development, including attendance at key industry conferences, executive coaching, and continuing education.
Relocation
A comprehensive, white-glove executive relocation package is available for the successful candidate and their family.
Additional Perks
Other benefits include a company car allowance, life and disability insurance, and employee assistance programs.
How to Apply
JRG Partners is the sole and exclusive search firm retained for this critical executive appointment. All inquiries, nominations, and applications will be handled with the strictest confidence.
To be considered for this transformative opportunity, please submit your curriculum vitae and a cover letter detailing your qualifications and interest in the role. We encourage you to explore our expertise in this sector by visiting JRG Partners’ Life Sciences Practice page to learn more about our work with leaders in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries.
Our client is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. We welcome and encourage applications from all qualified individuals, regardless of race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, age, national origin, or disability status.
