Job Description

Increasing demand for observational research (now commonly referred to as real-world evidence [RWE])) from regulatory and reimbursement authorities makes observational research a key component of drug development and commercialization. Amgen's Center for Observational Research (CfOR) is a global organization with an industry-leading analytical capability that generates RWE to support business needs across a product's lifecycle. CfOR scientists partner with internal stakeholders and industry experts to design, conduct, interpret and publish observational research that informs decision-making from the early development of a molecule to the design of clinical trials and the safety and efficacy of Amgen medicines.


We are seeking a dynamic, adaptable, and tech-savvy

Strategic Planning & Operations Manager

to oversee and drive execution of CfOR's operational projects and non-interventional studies ensuring timely completion within budget and at the highest quality. This role requires strong project management capabilities combined with a growth mindset and openness to leveraging emerging AI tools to improve productivity and drive CfOR-wide initiatives.


Key responsibilities:

Develop strong collaborative relationships with stakeholders across CfOR and Amgen, ensuring alignment with strategic objectives and operational priorities. Lead the planning, coordination, and execution of projects using Agile methodologies. Develop and maintain detailed project plans, facilitate meetings, track milestones, ensuring adherence to workflow processes. Provide ongoing support for headcount management, requisition tracking, staffing analysis, and organizational planning in alignment with CfOR leadership goals and strategic direction. Lead adoption and integration of platforms such as Smartsheet, Microsoft Teams, and Miro to enhance team collaboration and project tracking. Lead or support strategic initiatives, including operational pilots, change management efforts, and AI experimentation that elevate CfOR's organizational capabilities. Communicate status and issues effectively to appropriate parties, both within CfOR and across Amgen. Wear multiple hats as needed - Support Operations Head, lead special projects, conduct required analysis and create deliverables as needed. Identify and implement improvements to operational processes using AI tools and technology increasing team efficiency, reducing manual tasks. Leverage the use of productivity and generative AI tools, including Microsoft Copilot, ChatGPT, and AI agents, to streamline workflows, documentation, meeting summaries, data analysis, and communications.

Basic Qualifications

Doctorate degree and 2 years of research and program management experience Or Master's degree and 6 years of research and program management experience Or Bachelor's degree and 8 years of related experience Or Associate degree and 10 years of related experience Or High school diploma / GED and 12 years of related experience

Preferred Qualifications

Minimum of 10 years of project management experience, including 5+ years in pharma/biotech within regulated, cross-functional environments. Proven ability to lead complex projects end-to-end in fast-paced, matrixed settings; experienced in budgeting, resource planning, vendor management, and risk mitigation. Skilled at managing ambiguity and shifting priorities through structured thinking, stakeholder alignment, and agile decision-making. Highly motivated and proactive professional who thrives with minimal supervision, balancing multiple initiatives while ensuring compliance with regulatory standards and organizational processes. Expertise in evaluating current-state operations and designing scalable, creative solutions improving efficiency, quality, stakeholder satisfaction. Superior communication and presentation skills with ability to translate complex data into dashboards for diverse stakeholders, including SLTs. Experience with Agile frameworks (SAFe - highly preferred), Scrum, and Kanban, with a focus on digital transformation and operational efficiency. Comprehensive understanding of Good Clinical Practices (GCP), FDA regulations, and applicable regulatory/compliance frameworks critical to clinical and commercial operations. Familiarity with drug commercialization & business practices. High proficiency in Smartsheet, Microsoft O365, and Miro, with a focus on leveraging tools for planning, tracking, and visual collaboration. Passionate about continuous improvement and applying emerging technologies (e.g., Generative AI, agents) to increase productivity, automate repetitive tasks, and enhance stakeholder engagement. * Working knowledge of AI tools such as Microsoft Copilot, ChatGPT, and AI Agents, with practical experience integrating these into project workflows.