Medical Director / Medical Directoress

Acadia Pharmaceuticals GmbH - June 19, 2025

Position Summary

The (Senior) Medical Director, MSC will lead the creation and execution of the Medical Affairs strategy for RETT syndrome. This role involves collaborating with field Medical Science Liaisons (MSLs) and aligning closely with the Regional Medical Affairs strategy. Key responsibilities include strategizing (pre)launch plans, providing local support, and initiating Managed Access and Patient Support activities in select European countries. The successful candidate will be pivotal in building and maintaining external stakeholder relationships and fostering Acadia's position as a thought leader and trusted partner in patient advocacy and the medical RETT community, particularly within smaller EU countries. Accountability will extend to ensuring the effectiveness and compliance of scientific exchanges to meet the diverse needs of clinicians, patient advocates, and other essential stakeholders.

Primary Responsibilities

  • Retain primary geographical responsibility for select mid-sized European countries, with potential expansion based on experience and organizational needs.
  • Provide medical and scientific leadership through the development of strategic country medical affairs (pre)launch plans, identifying unmet medical needs and data gaps.
  • Establish strategic partnerships with Centers of Excellence, Key Opinion Leaders (KOLs), and Patient Advocacy Groups (PAGs), collaborating with local MSLs as necessary.
  • Ensure cross-functional collaboration with key stakeholders to manage relationships and align on the execution of the medical strategy effectively.
  • Coordinate operational medical excellence in collaboration with EU field medical teams, tracking key tactics and prelaunch activities in the designated countries.
  • Provide medical expertise and editorial support for disseminating data at conferences and in medical journals.
  • Engage with key healthcare professionals (HCPs) to exchange scientific and medical information, including participating in Advisory Boards and presenting at national meetings and conferences.
  • Develop and maintain close professional relationships with Key Opinion Leaders and emerging scientific leaders alongside MSLs.
  • Oversee insights related to the competitive landscape and unmet needs of physicians and advocacy groups, developing actionable plans based on these findings.
  • Assist in publication activities, reviewing and approving abstracts and manuscripts while developing local publication strategies in collaboration with authors as needed.
  • Oversee the collection and reporting of field medical insights via the existing iArt CRM system in line with company standards.
  • Understand HCP needs across various Medical Science Liaisons and support a strategic medical affairs plan aimed at improving patient care and generating relevant evidence for RETT syndrome.
  • Perform additional duties as assigned.

Education/Experience/Skills

Qualifications include an MD (PhD, PharmD, or equivalent also considered) with over 10 years of Medical Affairs experience in the pharmaceutical or biotech industry within Europe; regional experience is beneficial. A solid background in rare (neurological) diseases in Europe, along with robust knowledge of healthcare systems and regulations—including pre-approval and early access activities—is essential. The ideal candidate will possess extensive experience in HCP engagement as well as interactions with Patient Advocacy Groups, employing integrated communication strategies to support disease awareness. An equivalent combination of education and relevant experience may also be acceptable.

Key Skills

  • Comprehensive knowledge to critically evaluate studies and clinical evidence, facilitating high-level engagement with HCPs.
  • Deep understanding of compliance and regulatory requirements for pharmaceutical Medical Affairs, R&D, and Commercial activities across Europe.
  • Exceptional communication, collaboration, and presentation skills, with demonstrated experience in delivering scientific presentations.
  • A proactive, independent, and agile working style.
  • Able to forge strong cross-functional and cross-company relationships.
  • Ability to collaborate effectively, contributing to the planning process and executing the agreed-upon local Medical (pre)launch plan alongside MSLs and in alignment with the Regional Medical Affairs strategy.
  • Fluent in English (mother tongue level); proficiency in additional languages is highly advantageous. Excellent communication skills with the ability to convey details clearly and articulate complex topics.
  • Willingness to travel locally and internationally as required.

Apply online using the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

Location : Zug
Country : Switzerland

Application Form

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