Senior Specialist, Business Strategy

AstraZeneca, we pride ourselves on crafting a collaborative culture that champions knowledge-sharing, ambitious thinking and innovation – ultimately providing employees with the opportunity to work across teams, functions and even the globe.

Recognizing the importance of individualized flexibility, our ways of working allow employees to balance personal and work commitments while ensuring we continue to create a strong culture of collaboration and teamwork by engaging face-to-face in our offices 3 days a week. Our head office and BlueSky Hub in downtown Toronto are purposely designed with collaboration in mind, providing space where teams can come together to strategize, brainstorm and connect on key projects.

Our dedication to sustainability is also central to our culture and part of what makes AstraZeneca a great place to work. We know the health of people, the planet and our business are interconnected which is why we’re taking ambitious action to tackle some of the biggest challenges of our time, from climate change to access to healthcare and disease prevention.

Introduction to role

The Senior Business Specialist, Business Strategy reports to the Director, Operational Data Strategy. This role is for an experienced Senior Business Analyst to mentor and demonstrate leadership in a team. You will support with data analysis/structuring, requirements and user story development, process and customer management for operational data. With your experience in data analysis, exceptional communication skills, and a proven track record of driving insights from operational data, you will support decision-making processes. Additionally, you should participate in knowledge forums and communities of practice to stay informed about the latest trends and standard methodologies in managing operational data.

Accountabilities:

• Provide expert guidance to internal and external customers on operational data analysis, data diagnostics, and data management.
• Offer strategic guidance and recommendations based on in-depth data analysis to support decision-making processes within the organization.
• Act as a trusted advisor, demonstrating industry knowledge and experience to provide consultancy on operational data management principles and methodologies.
• Collaborate with clients and business partners to understand their unique business needs and translate them into effective data requirements and user stories.
• Engage in consultancy activities to optimize and streamline business processes related to operational data, driving efficiency and value for the organization and its clients.
• Provide leadership and mentor members of the team in Data Discovery and Consultancy, providing guidance and support in operational data analysis and management.
• Provide input into the shape and ways of working/standards to operate effectively within the Data Discovery and Consultancy team to inform the wider Operational Data Strategy team.
• Conduct advanced data diagnostics and analysis to identify trends, patterns, and anomalies in operational data, providing strategic insights to the business.
• Drive data landscaping efforts to ensure data quality, integrity, and governance for operational datasets.
• Act as a proactive leader in knowledge forums and communities of practice, staying updated on industry trends and standard methodologies, and sharing knowledge within the organization.

Essential Skills/Experience:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Business Administration, Information Systems, Computer Science, or a related field.
• BCS Business Analysis/IIBA in Business Analysis or similar.
• Demonstrable experience in a Senior Business Analyst or similar leadership role, emphasizing operational data analysis and management.
• Strong knowledge of advanced data analysis techniques, tools, and standard processes.
• Proficiency in gathering and documenting complex business requirements, user stories, and process flows.
• Good communication, presentation, and collaborator management skills.
• Excellent proficiency in tools such as PowerPoint, Excel.

Desirable Skills/Experience:

• Experience with data visualization tools such as Tableau, Power BI, or similar, and the ability to guide and mentor others in their use.
• Proficiency in SQL, data querying, and advanced data manipulation.
• In-depth knowledge of operational data management principles, methodologies, and industry best practices.
• Experience with Atlassian (Jira) or familiar tools.
• Management or strategy consulting experience.
• Experience in life sciences industry.

Are you interested in working at AZ, apply today!

AstraZeneca is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to diversity and inclusion and providing a workplace that is free from discrimination. AstraZeneca is committed to accommodating persons with disabilities. Such accommodation is available on request in respect of all aspects of the recruitment, assessment and selection process and may be requested by emailingAZCHumanResources@astrazeneca.com.

AstraZeneca embraces diversity and equality of opportunity. We are committed to building an inclusive and diverse team representing all backgrounds, with as wide a range of perspectives as possible, and harnessing industry-leading skills. We believe that the more inclusive we are, the better our work will be. We welcome and consider applications to join our team from all qualified candidates, regardless of their characteristics. We comply with all applicable laws and regulations on non-discrimination in employment (and recruitment), as well as work authorisation and employment eligibility verification requirements.