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Head of Decision Science

Boston, Massachusetts
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At Takeda, it's our people, our values and our culture that make us special. We share a sense of vocation and a desire to serve others that pulses through our entire organization. We're fortunate to be grounded in a history that gives us a long term perspective, the confidence to stick to what we believe in, and the humility to know we don't have all the answers.

We combine this outlook with an agility and tenacity to deliver for our patients that has fueled the growth of our business. But what really sets our company apart is something we call Patient Trust Reputation Business. It's the framework that enables us to translate our purpose and values into action. It's how we synchronize the diversity of our perspectives, strengths and expertise. And it’s what keeps our decision making tethered to what really matters.

Job ID R0151518 Date posted 05/29/2025 Location Boston, Massachusetts

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Job Description

We are seeking a dynamic, visionary leader to join the newly formed Commercial Analytics & Insights (CA&I) organization as Head of Decision Science team out of our Cambridge, MA office.

As the Head of Decision Science, you will lead the development and implementation of advanced analytics capabilities that transform data into strategic insights across Takeda's commercial activities. You will oversee three critical teams: Measurement, Simulation & Optimization, Patient Finding & Target Prioritization, and Experimental Design and Innovation. Reporting to the Head of AI, Data and Decision Science, you will collaborate with cross-functional partners including Brand/Marketing, Sales, Market Access, Patient Services, Finance, and Medical teams to deliver actionable insights that drive
business performance and enhance patient outcomes.

How you will contribute:

  • Vision Setting: Establish a forward-thinking vision and strategy for decision science that aligns with business priorities, incorporating AI methodologies to enhance predictive capabilities and operational efficiencies.
  • Team Development: Build and lead a high-performing analytics team skilled in AI and machine learning techniques, ensuring delivery of actionable insights and impactful solutions.
  • Innovation Advocacy: Champion a culture of innovation, data-driven decision-making, and accountability, encouraging the adoption of evolving technologies to enhance analytics capabilities
  • Lead and develop a high-performing team of data scientists, analysts, and decision
    science professionals across the various decision science functions
  • Foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement within the Decision Science organization
  • Provide mentorship and professional development opportunities to build team
    capabilities and advance careers
  • Partner with the Head of AI, Data and Decision Science to align team objectives with
    overall data strategy and business goals
  • Manage resource allocation across teams to optimize delivery of high-impact projects
  • Lead measurement of historical performance and optimization of future spending to
    improve execution across business units
  • Oversee development and application of solutions including Marketing Mix Models,
    Resource Allocation Optimization, Promotion Budget Simulation, and Test & Control
    methodologies
  • Translate complex analytical findings into clear, actionable recommendations for
    senior business leaders
  • Develop robust measurement frameworks that quantify ROI of commercial initiatives
  • Implement predictive models to forecast outcomes of strategic decisions and identify optimal resource allocation
  • Partner with commercial leadership to ensure analytics solutions address critical
    business challenges
  • Collaborate with DD&T and other technology teams to ensure data infrastructure
    supports advanced analytics needs
  • Work closely with Brand Heads and BU I&A teams to understand key business
    questions and then deliver timely actionable insights that facilitate decision-making
  • Represent Decision Science in cross-functional leadership forums
  • Demonstrate the value of decision science through clear communication of business
    impact and ROI

Minimum Requirements/Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s degree required, Advanced degree highly preferred (Master's or PhD) in Data Science, Statistics, Operations Research, Economics, or related quantitative field; MBA is a plus
  • 15+ years of experience in analytics, data science, or related fields with at least 5 years in leadership roles required
  • 10+ years of experience in pharmaceutical or healthcare industry with understanding of data and analytics required
  • Proven track record leading analytics teams in a matrix organization
  • Experience implementing advanced analytics capabilities that drive business
    outcomes
  • Demonstrated success in translating complex analyses into actionable business
    recommendations
  • Deep expertise in statistical methods, predictive modeling, machine learning, and
    optimization techniques
  • Strong understanding of marketing mix modeling, promotion response analysis, and
    resource allocation optimization
  • Experience with patient finding and HCP targeting methodologies in pharmaceutical
    context
  • Knowledge of experimental design methodologies and A/B testing frameworks
  • Proficiency with analytics tools and languages (such as R, Python, SAS)
  • Understanding of data visualization principles and tools
  • Familiarity with cloud-based analytics environments and modern data architecture
  • Knowledge of healthcare data sources and regulatory considerations
  • Strong strategic thinking with ability to align analytics initiatives with business
    objectives
  • Excellent communication skills with ability to translate complex analytical concepts to business stakeholders
  • Demonstrated ability to build and develop high-performing, diverse teams
  • Experience managing cross-functional projects & influencing without direct authority
  • Business acumen with understanding of pharmaceutical commercial business
  • Change management skills to drive adoption of analytics solutions
  • Collaborative approach to working with business partners, BU Insights leaders and
    technology teams
  • Travel Requirement- Occasional domestic overnight travel may be required

More about us:

At Takeda, we are transforming patient care through the development of novel specialty pharmaceuticals and best in class patient support programs. Takeda is a patient-focused company that will inspire and empower you to grow through life-changing work.

Certified as a Global Top Employer, Takeda offers stimulating careers, encourages innovation, and strives for excellence in everything we do. We foster an inclusive, collaborative workplace, in which our teams are united by an unwavering commitment to deliver Better Health and a Brighter Future to people around the world.

This position is currently classified as "hybrid" in accordance with Takeda's Hybrid and Remote Work policy.

Takeda Compensation and Benefits Summary

We understand compensation is an important factor as you consider the next step in your career. We are committed to equitable pay for all employees, and we strive to be more transparent with our pay practices.

For Location:

Boston, MA

U.S. Base Salary Range:

$208,200.00 - $327,140.00

The estimated salary range reflects an anticipated range for this position. The actual base salary offered may depend on a variety of factors, including the qualifications of the individual applicant for the position, years of relevant experience, specific and unique skills, level of education attained, certifications or other professional licenses held, and the location in which the applicant lives and/or from which they will be performing the job.The actual base salary offered will be in accordance with state or local minimum wage requirements for the job location.

U.S. based employees may be eligible for short-term and/or long-termincentives. U.S.based employees may be eligible to participate in medical, dental, vision insurance, a 401(k) plan and company match, short-term and long-term disability coverage, basic life insurance, a tuition reimbursement program, paid volunteer time off, company holidays, and well-being benefits, among others. U.S.based employees are also eligible to receive, per calendar year, up to 80 hours of sick time, and new hires are eligible to accrue up to 120 hours of paid vacation.

EEO Statement

Takeda is proud in its commitment to creating a diverse workforce and providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, parental status, national origin, age, disability, citizenship status, genetic information or characteristics, marital status, status as a Vietnam era veteran, special disabled veteran, or other protected veteran in accordance with applicable federal, state and local laws, and any other characteristic protected by law.

Locations

Boston, MA

Worker Type

Employee

Worker Sub-Type

Regular

Time Type

Full time

Job Exempt

Yes

It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.
Apply Now
There are endless opportunities for people in science-related fields at Takeda. This is a company that focuses on the patients and their employees.

Tamara D. - Director, US Field Medical, GI

Patient centricity and the fact that we make decisions based on how they will impact the patient, trust, reputation and business – in that order – is what keeps me here. That is always steady.

Jill E. - Medical Affairs

It's comforting to know I have flexibility when it comes to managing my schedule and my family, especially through COVID. This flexibility gave me the time and capacity I needed to care of all of my responsibilities.

Tony P. - Managed Markets

I am overwhelmingly thrilled with Takeda's leadership, the care through COVID, and the decision making framework that prioritizes the patient, trust, reputation and business – in that order. It's all about building trust and honoring our commitments.

Dayna F. - Director, IG Community Support

The people here are fantastic. Everyone has been wonderful. The opportunities at Takeda are enormous. I don’t know why you would go anywhere else, incredible support system, everything a professional could ask for.

David M. - Sales

I love the fact that I am empowered to do what is right and what I need to do. If you are a person who likes to make decisions and be accountable and responsibile for your actions, this is the right company for you. If you want a company that cares for its employees, Takeda is a great fit for you.

Kristen H. - US Medical

Takeda walks the talk. When we say we value patients, trust, reputation and business – in that order – we mean it. The openness of Leadership, from Christophe to Ramona and others…it trickles down.

Barbara O. - Finance

Working at Takeda

  • Inclusion

    Here, you will feel welcomed, respected, and valued as a vital contributor to our global team.
  • Collaboration

    A strong, borderless team, we strive together towards our priorities and inspiring mission.
  • Innovation

    Bold initiatives, continuous improvement, and creativity are at the heart of how we bring scientific breakthroughs from the lab to patients.
  • Top Workplace

    Recognized for our culture and way of working, we’re one of only 17 companies to receive Top Global Employer® status for 2024.
  • Work-Life

    Our people-first mission extends beyond patients to include their families, communities, and our own Takeda family.
  • Empowerment

    Through trust and respect, you will have genuine support from leaders, managers, and colleagues to do your best work.

We're Steadfast In Our Commitment to Four Key Imperatives

Patient


Responsibly translate science into highly innovative medicines and accelerate access to improve lives worldwide.

People


Create an exceptional people experience.

Planet


Protect our planet.

Data & Digital


Transform Takeda into the most trusted, data-driven, outcomes-based biopharmaceutical company.

What we believe in

Our values of Takeda-ism are Integrity, Fairness, Honesty and Perseverance, with Integrity as the core. These are brought to life through actions based on Patient, Trust, Reputation and Business, in that order.

Our belief in putting people first extends beyond our patients — it includes their families and communities, as well as our Takeda colleagues and their families.

We are committed to embracing our differences, valuing different perspectives, and fostering a culture of respect, inclusiveness and empowerment.

Our embedded Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DE&I) strategy enables us to attract and retain exceptional talent, drives innovation, and helps address systemic inequalities in our communities.

  • Integrity

  • Fairness

  • Honesty

  • Perseverance

Exterior of Takeda Building

About our location

Boston, Massachusetts


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