MERCK
US Strategy Lead Director Medical Affairs (USDMA)/ Rheumatology & Dermatology (R
MERCK, Atlanta, Georgia, United States, 30349
Overview The US Director Medical Affairs (USDMA) is a regionally based position within our Company Research Laboratories, US Medical Affairs (our R&D Division USMA), and is a US Country Level Strategic director focusing on Rheumatology & Dermtology. This role drives scientific excellence across in-line business and the One Company's Pipeline while optimizing field readiness across the USMA strategic pillars: Scientific Exchange, Company Trials, Investigator-Sponsored Programs, Congresses, and Insights.
The US DMA is an experienced therapeutic area (TA) leader and SME with medical affairs and field medical experience. This role executes scientific and medical affairs plans for assigned Therapy Areas within their region, engaging with regional cross-functional teams, and providing US input to cross-functional meetings (e.g., US MAT, PAT, MT and V&I Plans).
As a core member (or co-lead) of the US Medical Affairs Team (MAT), the US DMA collaborates with the Global TA team and cross-functional partners to enable US regional implementation of Value & Implementation (V&I) Planning by: integrating local insights into Global Scientific Value Content (GSVC) and Center of Scientific Exchange Excellence (CSEE) plans; facilitating local adoption of GSVC and CSEE initiatives; leading development and execution of aligned local training programs; evaluating training effectiveness and application in the field.
Primary Responsibilities
In collaboration with USMA Executive Director (ED) and Health Systems Payor Access Strategy Lead (PASL), conduct development and implementation of regional strategies aligned with headquarters V&I goals including defining a prioritized USMA Field strategy and implementation goals. Contribute to the integrated US Country Medical Affairs Plan (CMAP), including the US Field Medical Plan (FMP)/Field Engagement Plan (FEP) and field training plan for assigned TA as a member of the USMA TA Leadership Team. Identify and prioritize US field resources, training needs and activities; in collaboration with GMVC, ensure strategically aligned content and training and any other needed adult learning activities across the portfolio. This includes pull-through of pre- and post-congress regional training and content. Develop a strategic and comprehensive scientific engagement plan and ensure scientific exchange aligns with the global scientific communications platform. Ensure insights from advisory boards and field medical activities are actioned with relevant stakeholders, aligned with Country Medical Affairs priorities, and monitored for trends impacting future strategy. In collaboration with relevant USMA stakeholders (e.g. HS PASL), organize expert input events (e.g., advisory boards, forums) with contracted Scientific Leaders and key stakeholders to address new indication implementation and/or emerging science. Manage programs (e.g. patient support, education, risk management) as needed for appropriate and safe utilization of company medicines. Partner with GSVC, CSEE, US Global Clinical Trial Organization (GCTO), Global Medical and Scientific Affairs (GMSA) TA leads, and internal/external SMEs to orchestrate and deliver regional training as needed. Participate in bi-directional information exchange and sharing of best practices across USMA roles and teams, including Health Systems. Collaborate with the USMA Field Medical Alignment Director (FMAD) to ensure consistent standards, processes, and harmonization for training activities (e.g., clinical immersions, verbalizations, journal clubs). Provide input into strategic congress priorities and participate in planning at key scientific congresses. Continuously monitor healthcare environment and emerging trends to optimize CMAPs and field execution plans. Additional Responsibilities
Serve as a point of contact for development and maintenance of US new-hire scientific foundational onboarding in collaboration with leadership and SMEs. Work with USMA Leadership and GMVC stakeholders to ensure consistent verbalization processes for new hires and tenured RMSDs regarding new data, indications, and disease areas. Provide support for the Investigator Studies Program (ISP) for assigned TA, including Areas of Interest consultation, dissemination, data highlights, training, and scientific review as requested by the GMSA ED. Required Qualifications, Skills & Experience
An advanced degree (e.g., MD, PhD, PharmD) relevant to the TA-specific disease area and recognized medical expertise in the TA (rheumatology) A minimum of 5 years of medical affairs experience or equivalent clinical/research experience A minimum of 3 years of working in therapeutic area (clinical, research, or pharmaceutical environment) or within a highly relevant TA with demonstrated scientific acumen Proven ability in Strategic Decision Making & Planning, including helping the US Executive Director prioritize initiatives across the portfolio. Demonstrated Execution Excellence with a track record of leading complex projects, managing multiple priorities simultaneously in a fast-paced environment. Strong Emotional Intelligence to foster trust and respect within a complex, matrixed organizational structure. Exceptional Networking & Partnerships skills to collaborate effectively across diverse teams and stakeholders. Agile mindset as a Change Catalyst, committed to experimenting, learning, and adapting in response to evolving business needs, and capable of driving continuous improvement. Expertise in interpreting and communicating complex scientific concepts clearly in both one-on-one and group settings. Deep knowledge of the US healthcare system, including national treatment guidelines, clinical research processes, FDA regulations, and OIG compliance. The ability to travel up to 40% (i.e.: Congresses) Preferred Qualifications
Field Medical Affairs experience. University-level teaching experience and understanding of adult learning principles. Experience with innovative pharmaceutical training platforms. Proficiency in Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and Excel. Ability to quickly assimilate new subject areas and work independently on complex problems. #eligibleforERP Current Employees apply HERE (https://wd5.myworkday.com/msd/d/task/1422$6687.htmld) Current Contingent Workers apply HERE (https://wd5.myworkday.com/msd/d/task/1422$4020.htmld) EEO and Legal Notices US and Puerto Rico Residents Only: Our company is committed to inclusion and provides equal opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability status, or other legally protected characteristics. As a federal contractor, we comply with all affirmative action requirements for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. For more information about personal rights under U.S. Equal Opportunity Employment laws, visit: EEOC Know Your Rights; EEOC GINA Supplement; Learn more about your rights via privacy and state-specific notices. U.S. Hybrid Work Model: See policy details for hybrid work expectations. Travel Requirements: 50% Salary range: $187,000.00 - $294,400.00. Eligible for annual bonus and long-term incentives where applicable. Benefits include medical, dental, vision, retirement, paid holidays, vacation, and sick days. See compensation and benefits page for details. San Francisco residents: Fair Chance Ordinance; Los Angeles residents: City Fair Chance Initiative. Job posting ends 10/11/2025. Requisition ID: R365367
Scroll down to find the complete details of the job offer, including experience required and associated duties and tasks. #J-18808-Ljbffr Remote working/work at home options are available for this role.
In collaboration with USMA Executive Director (ED) and Health Systems Payor Access Strategy Lead (PASL), conduct development and implementation of regional strategies aligned with headquarters V&I goals including defining a prioritized USMA Field strategy and implementation goals. Contribute to the integrated US Country Medical Affairs Plan (CMAP), including the US Field Medical Plan (FMP)/Field Engagement Plan (FEP) and field training plan for assigned TA as a member of the USMA TA Leadership Team. Identify and prioritize US field resources, training needs and activities; in collaboration with GMVC, ensure strategically aligned content and training and any other needed adult learning activities across the portfolio. This includes pull-through of pre- and post-congress regional training and content. Develop a strategic and comprehensive scientific engagement plan and ensure scientific exchange aligns with the global scientific communications platform. Ensure insights from advisory boards and field medical activities are actioned with relevant stakeholders, aligned with Country Medical Affairs priorities, and monitored for trends impacting future strategy. In collaboration with relevant USMA stakeholders (e.g. HS PASL), organize expert input events (e.g., advisory boards, forums) with contracted Scientific Leaders and key stakeholders to address new indication implementation and/or emerging science. Manage programs (e.g. patient support, education, risk management) as needed for appropriate and safe utilization of company medicines. Partner with GSVC, CSEE, US Global Clinical Trial Organization (GCTO), Global Medical and Scientific Affairs (GMSA) TA leads, and internal/external SMEs to orchestrate and deliver regional training as needed. Participate in bi-directional information exchange and sharing of best practices across USMA roles and teams, including Health Systems. Collaborate with the USMA Field Medical Alignment Director (FMAD) to ensure consistent standards, processes, and harmonization for training activities (e.g., clinical immersions, verbalizations, journal clubs). Provide input into strategic congress priorities and participate in planning at key scientific congresses. Continuously monitor healthcare environment and emerging trends to optimize CMAPs and field execution plans. Additional Responsibilities
Serve as a point of contact for development and maintenance of US new-hire scientific foundational onboarding in collaboration with leadership and SMEs. Work with USMA Leadership and GMVC stakeholders to ensure consistent verbalization processes for new hires and tenured RMSDs regarding new data, indications, and disease areas. Provide support for the Investigator Studies Program (ISP) for assigned TA, including Areas of Interest consultation, dissemination, data highlights, training, and scientific review as requested by the GMSA ED. Required Qualifications, Skills & Experience
An advanced degree (e.g., MD, PhD, PharmD) relevant to the TA-specific disease area and recognized medical expertise in the TA (rheumatology) A minimum of 5 years of medical affairs experience or equivalent clinical/research experience A minimum of 3 years of working in therapeutic area (clinical, research, or pharmaceutical environment) or within a highly relevant TA with demonstrated scientific acumen Proven ability in Strategic Decision Making & Planning, including helping the US Executive Director prioritize initiatives across the portfolio. Demonstrated Execution Excellence with a track record of leading complex projects, managing multiple priorities simultaneously in a fast-paced environment. Strong Emotional Intelligence to foster trust and respect within a complex, matrixed organizational structure. Exceptional Networking & Partnerships skills to collaborate effectively across diverse teams and stakeholders. Agile mindset as a Change Catalyst, committed to experimenting, learning, and adapting in response to evolving business needs, and capable of driving continuous improvement. Expertise in interpreting and communicating complex scientific concepts clearly in both one-on-one and group settings. Deep knowledge of the US healthcare system, including national treatment guidelines, clinical research processes, FDA regulations, and OIG compliance. The ability to travel up to 40% (i.e.: Congresses) Preferred Qualifications
Field Medical Affairs experience. University-level teaching experience and understanding of adult learning principles. Experience with innovative pharmaceutical training platforms. Proficiency in Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and Excel. Ability to quickly assimilate new subject areas and work independently on complex problems. #eligibleforERP Current Employees apply HERE (https://wd5.myworkday.com/msd/d/task/1422$6687.htmld) Current Contingent Workers apply HERE (https://wd5.myworkday.com/msd/d/task/1422$4020.htmld) EEO and Legal Notices US and Puerto Rico Residents Only: Our company is committed to inclusion and provides equal opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability status, or other legally protected characteristics. As a federal contractor, we comply with all affirmative action requirements for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. For more information about personal rights under U.S. Equal Opportunity Employment laws, visit: EEOC Know Your Rights; EEOC GINA Supplement; Learn more about your rights via privacy and state-specific notices. U.S. Hybrid Work Model: See policy details for hybrid work expectations. Travel Requirements: 50% Salary range: $187,000.00 - $294,400.00. Eligible for annual bonus and long-term incentives where applicable. Benefits include medical, dental, vision, retirement, paid holidays, vacation, and sick days. See compensation and benefits page for details. San Francisco residents: Fair Chance Ordinance; Los Angeles residents: City Fair Chance Initiative. Job posting ends 10/11/2025. Requisition ID: R365367
Scroll down to find the complete details of the job offer, including experience required and associated duties and tasks. #J-18808-Ljbffr Remote working/work at home options are available for this role.