All else being equal (comp package, title, location, etc), is it better to take a AD corporate strategy role or an AD functional commercial/R&D role in big pharma? Which has better trajectory and options?

likehelpful
Posting as :
works at
You are currently posting as works at

Take the functional role in that case. You have more leeway for growing into VP roles within same company. For corporate roles, you have to switch companies to grow up to higher levels. And wlb is a tag better in functional roles too.

Most important though is to do what you enjoy. Career journey in big pharma takes you across multiple roles usually, so pick what you like, do a reasonable job and keep moving to new area you want to explore. Being a good people manager is a constant to keep throughout and helps get leadership roles.

helpfullike

What is your goal?

likesmart

A reasonably stable career with good hours. I would like to make it to VP someday, but no ambitions to C-suite.

Corp strategy role be super vague and difficult to navigate organizationally. Oftentimes, no one else at the company (franchises, market access, R&D) will understand what you do – obviously that creates friction. Would discourage this role unless the day-to-day / task flow / reporting structure is crystal clear.

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