[Remote] Kearney Healthcare & Life Sciences Practice Principal (Pharma R&D Strategy)

Note: The job is a remote job and is open to candidates in USA. Kearney is a leading consulting firm specializing in healthcare and life sciences, and they are seeking a Principal to drive the growth of their Pharma R&D Strategy offering. The role involves leading complex strategy engagements, advising senior executives in pharmaceutical R&D, and developing client relationships while mentoring junior consultants.ResponsibilitiesLead large, complex strategy engagements for pharmaceutical and biopharma clients across R&D and clinical development functionsAdvise senior executives on strategic topics including:Clinical development strategyDrug development strategyClinical trial strategy and operating modelsClinical operations transformationRegulatory affairs strategyPharmacovigilance and drug safety strategyClinical trial feasibility and development planningDigital strategy and transformation across R&D organizationsSupport clients in designing and optimizing R&D operating models and organizational effectivenessDrive strategic problem solving from issue identification through analysis, synthesis, and executive recommendation developmentTranslate complex analyses into clear, actionable insights for C-suite stakeholdersLead cross-functional teams and independently manage high-impact engagement workstreamsServe as a trusted advisor to senior client leadership across pharmaceutical and biopharma organizationsProvide thought leadership on evolving trends across Pharma R&D, clinical development, and digital transformationOriginate and expand client relationships across Pharma and Life Sciences accountsSupport growth of Kearney’s Pharma R&D Strategy capabilities within the practiceLead proposal development and contribute to senior-level client pitchesIdentify opportunities to expand strategic advisory relationships within existing and new clientsContribute to the development of intellectual capital and differentiated market offerings across Pharma R&D and clinical developmentMentor and develop junior consultants and engagement teamsFoster a collaborative, high-performing team environmentProvide coaching and oversight across multiple engagements to ensure quality and impactHelp build and strengthen Kearney’s Pharma R&D Strategy presence within Life SciencesSkillsMBA preferred and 10+ years of professional experienceSignificant management consulting experience at the Principal level or equivalentA strong traditional consulting background with experience leading strategy engagements within Pharma R&D and clinical developmentExperience advising pharmaceutical and biopharma clients across one or more of the following areas: Clinical development, Drug development, Clinical operations, Regulatory affairs, Pharmacovigilance / drug safety, Clinical trial feasibility, Clinical development program strategy, R&D operating models, Digital strategy and transformation within R&D organizationsDeep pharmaceutical industry expertise; candidates focused primarily on medtech or consumer health are less aligned for this roleDemonstrated ability to lead strategic advisory engagements versus operational execution-focused delivery workStrong executive presence and ability to influence senior stakeholdersExperience managing proposal development, client pitches, and business development effortsProven ability to independently lead multiple complex workstreams and client relationshipsExceptional communication, analytical, and leadership skillsWillingness to travel as requiredBenefitsGenerous retirement/pension savings contributionsComprehensive medical insurance for employees and immediate familyGym membership discountsNon-partner equity-based awards (for consulting managers and above)Structured and on-the-job learning and development opportunitiesPersonalized opportunities including talent mobility, flexible work programs, and externships to help you chart a unique career journey to pursue your own personal and professional goalsDiscretionary performance bonusPaid time off401(k) match and profit sharingMedical, dental and vision coverageHealthcare conciergeBackup child/adult careAnnual employer HSA contributionHome office stipendSubsidized Gympass and annual wellness programLeaves of absence when needed to support employees’ physical, mental, and emotional well-beingCompany OverviewKearney is a management consulting company offering services ranging from strategy to operations and IT. It was founded in 1926, and is headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, USA, with a workforce of 5001-10000 employees. Its website is https://www.jp.kearney.com/.Company H1B SponsorshipKearney has a track record of offering H1B sponsorships, with 9 in 2026, 73 in 2025, 69 in 2024, 81 in 2023, 94 in 2022, 64 in 2021, 24 in 2020. Please note that this does not guarantee sponsorship for this specific role.