Strategic Planning & Operations Manager

Career Category

Job Description

Increasing demand for observational research (now commonly referred to as real-world evidence [RWE])) from regulatory and reimbursement authorities makes observational research a key component of drug development and commercialization. Amgen's Center for Observational Research (CfOR) is a global organization with an industry-leading analytical capability that generates RWE to support business needs across a product’s lifecycle. CfOR scientists partner with internal stakeholders and industry experts to design, conduct, interpret and publish observational research that informs decision-making from the early development of a molecule to the design of clinical trials and the safety and efficacy of Amgen medicines.

We are seeking a dynamic, adaptable, and tech-savvy Strategic Planning & Operations Manager to oversee and drive execution of CfOR’s operational projects and non-interventional studies ensuring timely completion within budget and at the highest quality. This role requires strong project management capabilities combined with a growth mindset and openness to leveraging emerging AI tools to improve productivity and drive CfOR-wide initiatives.

Key responsibilities:

• Develop strong collaborative relationships with stakeholders across CfOR and Amgen, ensuring alignment with strategic objectives and operational priorities.

• Lead the planning, coordination, and execution of projects using Agile methodologies. Develop and maintain detailed project plans, facilitate meetings, track milestones, ensuring adherence to workflow processes.

• Provide ongoing support for headcount management, requisition tracking, staffing analysis, and organizational planning in alignment with CfOR leadership goals and strategic direction.

• Lead adoption and integration of platforms such as Smartsheet, Microsoft Teams, and Miro to enhance team collaboration and project tracking.

• Lead or support strategic initiatives, including operational pilots, change management efforts, and AI experimentation that elevate CfOR’s organizational capabilities.

• Communicate status and issues effectively to appropriate parties, both within CfOR and across Amgen.

• Wear multiple hats as needed – Support Operations Head, lead special projects, conduct required analysis and create deliverables as needed.

• Identify and implement improvements to operational processes using AI tools and technology increasing team efficiency, reducing manual tasks.

• Leverage the use of productivity and generative AI tools, including Microsoft Copilot, ChatGPT, and AI agents, to streamline workflows, documentation, meeting summaries, data analysis, and communications.

Basic Qualifications

• Doctorate degree and 2 years of research and program management experience Or

• Master’s degree and 6 years of research and program management experience Or

• Bachelor’s degree and 8 years of related experience Or

• Associate degree and 10 years of related experience Or

• High school diploma / GED and 12 years of related experience

Preferred Qualifications

• Minimum of 10 years of project management experience, including 5+ years in pharma/biotech within regulated, cross-functional environments.

• Proven ability to lead complex projects end-to-end in fast-paced, matrixed settings; experienced in budgeting, resource planning, vendor management, and risk mitigation.

• Skilled at managing ambiguity and shifting priorities through structured thinking, stakeholder alignment, and agile decision-making.

• Highly motivated and proactive professional who thrives with minimal supervision, balancing multiple initiatives while ensuring compliance with regulatory standards and organizational processes.

• Expertise in evaluating current-state operations and designing scalable, creative solutions improving efficiency, quality, stakeholder satisfaction.

• Superior communication and presentation skills with ability to translate complex data into dashboards for diverse stakeholders, including SLTs.

• Experience with Agile frameworks (SAFe – highly preferred), Scrum, and Kanban, with a focus on digital transformation and operational efficiency.

• Comprehensive understanding of Good Clinical Practices (GCP), FDA regulations, and applicable regulatory/compliance frameworks critical to clinical and commercial operations.

• Familiarity with drug commercialization & business practices.

• High proficiency in Smartsheet, Microsoft O365, and Miro, with a focus on leveraging tools for planning, tracking, and visual collaboration.

• Passionate about continuous improvement and applying emerging technologies (e.g., Generative AI, agents) to increase productivity, automate repetitive tasks, and enhance stakeholder engagement.

• Working knowledge of AI tools such as Microsoft Copilot, ChatGPT, and AI Agents, with practical experience integrating these into project workflows.