(Assoc) Sourcing Director, China External Innovation

Role purposeThe (Assoc) Sourcing Director of China External Innovation (EI) is accountable for originating, evaluating, and driving biotech collaboration deals that create pipeline value for Novo Nordisk through biotech partnership and co-development.Operating as a senior contributor, the role focuses on biotech engagement, scientific evaluation, and deal shaping within the China biotech ecosystem, progressing opportunities toward internal decision milestones and integration into R&D Lines of Business (LoB), in alignment with Global R&D External Innovation processes. Key accountabilitiesSourcing, evaluation & deal shapingCoordinate structured gap analysis with internal stakeholders, including:Therapeutic Areas, Target Discovery, Medicinal Chemistry, Computational Chemistry, and other relevant functionsIdentification of biology, chemistry, capability, or capacity gaps in the internal pipelineTranslation of those gaps into clear sourcing hypotheses and partnership requirementsProactively source and triage biotech opportunities across the China ecosystem based on the gap analysis outcome.Lead deep scientific evaluation covering:Medicinal Chemistry quality and design hypothesesCADD/AIDD drug design maturity and real‑world impacttranslational relevance and execution riskDrive opportunities through EI pipeline‑filling processes, including:internal alignment and framingpre‑due diligence and due diligence inputpreparation of decision materials for EI and LoB forumsActively shape the scientific and structural aspects of deals, while partnering with alliance management and BD on contracting and executionPipeline integration & value realizationEnsure collaborations generate outputs that are aligned with global pipeline needsEnable smooth handover and absorption of externally generated assets into NN programs QualificationsPhD in Medicinal Chemistry, Computational Chemistry, Life Sciences, or related discipline8+ years experience in:small‑molecule drug developmentbiotech collaborations or external innovationMedicinal Chemistry and CADD/AIDD‑enabled programsDemonstrated experience evaluating and advancing deals involving:early biotech pipelinesplatform‑based drug development collaborationsStrong ability to assess chemistry‑driven programs and AI‑enabled design claims with scientific rigorHigh degree of personal motivation and proactivity, able to influence without authority, and operate comfortably in ambiguity Working conditionsBased in ShanghaiUp to ~20% travel, primarily within China, as required for partner and project engagement We commit to an inclusive recruitment process and equality of opportunity for all our job applicants. At Novo Nordisk, we're not chasing quick fixes – we're creating lasting change for long-term health. For over years, we've been driven by a single purpose: to defeat serious chronic diseases and help millions of people live healthier lives. This dedication fuels our constant curiosity and inspires us to push the boundaries of what's possible in healthcare. We embrace diverse perspectives, seek out bold ideas, and build partnerships rooted in shared purpose. Together, we're making healthcare more accessible, treating and preventing diseases, and pioneering solutions that create change spanning generations. When you join us, you become part of something bigger – a legacy of impact that reaches far beyond today. Print job Send to e-mail