Head of DD&T Strategic Planning and Program Excellence

In this critical leadership role, the Head of DD&T Strategic Planning and Program Excellence shapes the DD&T agenda through effective governance, while overseeing critical operational areas such as project management, special/strategic projects, workforce transformation, and administrative functions. The position is responsible for driving operational excellence and fostering innovation through diligent project management, rigorous validation, and strategic incubation of new initiatives. The role requires a proactive approach to strategic execution and continuous improvement, utilizing performance evaluation frameworks to significantly enhance the impact and efficiency of Global DD&T operations.

Governance and Performance Management

The leader will provide rigorous oversight and strategic direction for all governance and performance management processes within DD&T. This includes the execution of Quarterly Business Reviews (QBRs), reporting and precise tracking of KPIs/OKRs, heading the Transformation Management Office (TMO), and reporting on and adhering to compliance standards.

Operations and Innovation

The leader will focus on spearheading ongoing and new operational and strategic projects that drive innovation across DD&T (e.g., Workforce of the Future (WOTF)). Responsibilities encompass comprehensive project management, from performance measurement of ongoing projects to the prioritization, validation, and incubation of new programs. This will ensure continual process improvements across DD&T and the fostering of an innovative operational environment. The role also supports ‘business as usual activities’, including oversight of the Global DD&T location strategy.

Administration

In this capacity, the leader ensures the efficient management of key executive assistants in charge of supporting day-to-day operations and administrative functions within Global DD&T. Their roles include managing the operational calendar to coordinate departmental activities, supervising space planning to optimize physical resources, managing Purchase Order (PO) submissions, and supporting select leaders with general administrative activities. Chief-of-Staff Support to the CDTO: Next to oversight of the three abovementioned teams, the role will help the Head of Strategic Planning & Transformation in supporting the CDTO, managing their agenda and follow-ups, initiating CDTO briefings, steering alignment meetings, and overseeing the CDTO budget. This involves overseeing the Strategic Planning & Operational Effectiveness Lead in preparing documentation, briefings, and decision materials, facilitating informed CDTO decision-making.

Ultimately, the Head of DD&T Strategic Planning and Program Excellence is a crucial figure in ensuring that Takeda’s digital and technology strategies are implemented efficiently and effectively, positioning the organization for sustainable success in a rapidly changing healthcare landscape.

Accountabilities

• Oversee DD&T Quarterly Business Reviews (QBRs): Manage the execution of QBRs by setting objectives, coordinating stakeholders, facilitating strategic alignment, and ensuring thorough follow-up to enhance decision-making and continuous improvement.
• Coordinate Key Leadership Meetings: Support the organization and facilitation of various leadership meetings, including Global DD&T, DD&T Leadership Team, and offsites, ensuring informed strategic decision-making and management of logistics.
• Chief-of-Staff Support for CDTO: Assist the Head of SP&T with Chief-of-Staff duties for the CDTO, managing agendas, coordinating strategic initiatives, managing CDTO budget and financial targets, and acting as a liaison to ensure team alignment.
• Performance Monitoring and Compliance: Establish and maintain OKRs/KPIs, and other reporting mechanisms like ESG and compliance standards, to track and enhance organizational performance.
• Transformation Management Oversight: Manage the Transformation Management Office (TMO), overseeing transformation efforts and change management processes to align initiatives with strategic objectives.
• Lead Strategic Initiatives: Spearhead Workforce of the Future (WOTF) initiatives, manage location strategies, and oversee the prioritization, validation, and incubation of new projects to ensure strategic and operational excellence.
• Manage Administrative and Operational Support: Supervise all administrative functions within DD&T, including executive assistant services, operational calendar, space planning, and budget management for purchase orders and SP&T financial planning.
• Stakeholder Relationship Management: Build and maintain strong relationships with senior leadership and stakeholders across functions, ensuring alignment with broader corporate strategies and securing support for initiatives.
• Reporting and Continuous Improvement: Regularly prepare detailed reports on the operational and strategic status of DD&T, encouraging a proactive culture that focuses on continuous process improvement and innovation.

Education, Behavioral Competencies and Skills

• Strong financial and business background, 12+ years of experience in the pharma or related sectors (can include years spent in consulting).
• Bachelor’s degree in computer sciences, Life Sciences, Business, or related subject matter.
• Experience with IT projects from start to end.
• Ability to prioritize what matters in an ambiguous situation; simplify and execute.
• Strong knowledge of information management, data quality, data constraints, and Governance Frameworks.
• Proven leadership and management capability.
• Demonstrated ability to drive continuous improvement, operational excellence, and elevate service levels.
• Excellent communication skills (written and verbal) with ability to listen and influence stakeholders at all levels including executive level presentations.
• Ability to engage effectively with colleagues and senior business stakeholders.
• Exceptional attention to detail, accuracy, and a high level of organization skills.
• Experience in budget planning and financial management.