Program Leader (Strategy & Transformation)

Program Leader (Strategy & Transformation) Location: New Jersey (Candidates in and around Nj within commutable distance) Full Time Visa: No H1B
Seeking a highly accomplished Program Leader (Strategy & Transformation) with deep expertise in the Healthcare and Pharmaceutical sector. The ideal candidate will bring a blend of management consulting rigor and industry leadership experience, with proven success in driving large-scale business transformations, strategic initiatives, mergers & acquisitions, and innovation programs within healthcare and life sciences.
This is a leadership role for someone who thrives at the intersection of strategy, consulting, execution, and domain depth, partnering closely with CXOs to unlock growth, efficiency, and competitive advantage.
Key Responsibilities Lead the design and execution of enterprise-wide strategy and transformation programs across healthcare/pharma organizations. Partner with CXOs, business leaders, and cross-functional teams to develop long-term growth strategies, new ventures, and digital transformation initiatives. Drive inorganic growth initiatives including M&A, joint ventures, and partnerships owning end-to-end deal structuring, due diligence, and post-merger integration. Act as a trusted consultant to clients by identifying opportunities, shaping solutions, and ensuring measurable business impact. Build and maintain strong client engagement, acting as a strategic advisor and ensuring stakeholder alignment at every stage of the transformation journey. Create and operationalize business models for new product rollouts, R&D portfolio expansion, and market entry strategies. Lead post-merger integration programs and ensure smooth transition of business operations, organizational alignment, and cultural integration. Use data-driven insights and analytics to inform strategic decision-making across clinical, commercial, and operational functions. Act as a thought leader in pharmaceutical innovation, healthcare delivery models, digital health, and regulatory landscapes (FDA, EMA, HIPAA, GxP, etc.). Mentor and develop high-performing teams, fostering a culture of innovation and execution excellence.
Key Requirements 12 18+ years of experience with a blend of top-tier management consulting (BCG, McKinsey, Bain, etc.) and industry leadership roles. Strong exposure to healthcare, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, or life sciences with proven impact in strategy, business development, or operations. Hands-on experience in M&A transactions, due diligence, and integration programs within healthcare/pharma. Expertise in developing and executing go-to-market strategies, product portfolio expansion, and digital transformation initiatives. Strong understanding of regulatory frameworks, compliance standards, and clinical workflows in healthcare and pharma. Exceptional stakeholder and client engagement skills with ability to influence senior leadership and boards. Global exposure across emerging and developed markets is highly preferred.