Health Economics and Outcomes Research (HEOR) Director
Directs research to demonstrate the economic value and clinical outcomes of pharmaceutical treatments.
Overview
The work involves the rigorous application of health economic modeling and real-world evidence generation to influence global healthcare policy. On a daily basis, this professional manages complex research projects, including cost-effectiveness analyses and patient-reported outcome studies, while collaborating with clinical development and commercial teams. The rhythm is dictated by product launch cycles and regulatory submission deadlines, requiring a high degree of precision and long-term strategic planning.
Success in this field requires a combination of technical mastery in biostatistics and the ability to translate complex data into compelling narratives for non-technical stakeholders. Those who thrive are typically systematic thinkers who enjoy solving quantitative puzzles and navigating the nuances of international healthcare systems. The role is intellectually demanding, focusing on proving value in an increasingly cost-conscious global market.
Responsibilities
- Design and oversee global health economic models to support product reimbursement.
- Lead the development of real-world evidence strategies using electronic health records and insurance claims data.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate outcomes research into clinical trial protocols.
- Submit peer-reviewed manuscripts and conference abstracts to disseminate scientific findings.
- Direct the creation of global value dossiers for use by local market access teams.
- Manage external vendors and academic consultants to ensure timely delivery of research projects.
- Monitor changes in the global regulatory and health technology assessment landscape.
Qualifications
- A doctoral degree (PhD, PharmD, or MD) in health economics, public health, or a related quantitative field.
- Extensive experience in health economics and outcomes research within the pharmaceutical industry.
- Advanced proficiency in statistical programming languages such as R, SAS, or STATA.
- Deep understanding of Health Technology Assessment (HTA) processes in major global markets.
- Proven track record of publishing original research in high-impact scientific journals.
- Expertise in designing and executing observational studies and economic simulations.
Nice to have
- Experience leading cross-functional teams in a global corporate matrix environment.
- Established relationships with key opinion leaders and healthcare policy makers.
- Additional certification in project management or data science.
- Fluency in multiple languages to support diverse regional market access efforts.
Work environment
- Work is primarily performed in a professional office setting with options for remote flexibility.
- High levels of collaboration occur with medical affairs, marketing, and regulatory departments.
- Regular attendance at international scientific congresses and industry conferences is expected.
- The culture is data-driven and emphasizes scientific integrity and ethical reporting.
- Software tools include specialized modeling platforms, bibliographic databases, and statistical suites.
Benefits & growth
- Compensation packages typically include significant annual performance bonuses and stock options.
- Career progression leads to executive roles such as Vice President of Market Access or Chief Medical Officer.
- Employers often provide substantial support for continuous education and professional certifications.
- The role offers high job security due to the specialized nature of health economic expertise.
- Opportunities for internal mobility across different therapeutic areas or international regions are common.
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