Director, Corporate Strategy

Galapagos is a global biotechnology company (Euronext & Nasdaq: GLPG) with operations in Europe, the U.S., and Asia, dedicated to transforming patient outcomes through life-changing science and innovation. We are in a new chapter of our transformation, focused on disciplined capital stewardship and transformative business development to build a pipeline of innovative clinical programs. With a strong balance sheet, Galapagos is actively evaluating value-accretive opportunities to deliver meaningful impact for patients and stakeholders. 

We are looking for

Director, Corporate Strategy

Scope of the job

Galapagos is seeking a Director, Corporate Strategy to support the VP, Corporate Strategy in shaping enterprise and portfolio strategy and driving key strategic decision-making across the company.

This role is designed for a high-impact strategic leader who combines rigorous analysis with strong synthesis, executive communication, and sound judgment in a fast-moving biotech environment. The Director will play a central role in portfolio planning, evaluation of internal and external opportunities, and preparation of materials for senior leadership and the Board.

Working closely with senior stakeholders across Strategy, R&D, Finance, and Business Development, this role ensures that strategic priorities are clearly defined, well-informed, and effectively communicated.

Your role:

Key Responsibilities

Strategy Development & Decision Support

• Support development of enterprise and portfolio strategy through structured analysis and synthesis of internal and external inputs

• Develop frameworks and insights to inform portfolio choices, growth priorities, and capital allocation decisions

• Prepare decision-ready materials and recommendations on key strategic topics

• Shape approaches to portfolio planning, including decision criteria and scenario development

External Landscape & Strategic Insights

• Identify and synthesize industry trends, competitive developments, and innovation themes

• Develop enterprise-level perspectives across therapeutic areas, modalities, and companies

• Engage with external experts and key opinion leaders to inform strategic assessments

• Lead deep-dive strategic projects assessing risks, opportunities, and strategic fit

Board & Executive Communication

• Develop Board-facing materials, strategic updates, and decision memos

• Translate complex strategic topics into clear, concise executive communication

• Partner with senior leadership and Investor Relations to communicate strategic direction

Cross-functional Collaboration

• Partner across Strategy, Commercial Assessment, Search & Evaluation, Finance, R&D, and other functions

• Ensure cross-functional insights are integrated into strategic recommendations

Strategic Integration & Special Projects

• Support integration of acquired or partnered assets and capabilities

• Provide analyses and recommendations for integration planning and synergy capture

• Contribute to high-priority strategic initiatives as business needs evolve

Who are you ?

Qualifications

• 8+ years of experience in biopharma corporate strategy, portfolio strategy, corporate development, consulting, or related field

• Strong understanding of scientific, commercial, strategic, and financial drivers in biotech

• Advanced degree preferred (MBA, PhD, MD, or equivalent)

Skills & Competencies

• Strong analytical and strategic thinking capabilities with the ability to structure complex problems

• Excellent communication skills, including executive-level presentations and Board materials

• Ability to balance big-picture strategy with hands-on execution

• High level of ownership, collaboration, and stakeholder management

• Comfortable operating in a high-visibility, dynamic environment

What’s in it for you ?

 At Galapagos, we prioritize your continuous growth and development, fostering a culture of empowerment. Our employees are the driving force behind our mission to lead in pharmaceutical research and innovation.

We offer a competitive compensation package and a supportive work environment with strong focus on your health and well-being. Join us in our journey towards sustainability, as we strive to make a lasting impact on both the industry and the planet.

We are Galapagos : together we can make it happen…!