“What will be included in a job description for a Medical Affairs position in 2030?” was our table’s workshop topic during the ‘Strategic Leadership through the Eyes of General Managers’ conference. Here’s what we (Anita Ackerman, Masaaki Kotaki, Joanne Skinner (MBA), Dianne Gill, Matthew Britland, Dr Sarah Tregenza, Meagan Walsh, Carryn King, Leon Rozen, Anthony Jackson, Gary Jankelowitz) came up with.
Firstly, the universal terms ‘Medical Affairs’ and ‘MSL’ are unlikely to change by 2030, although there will be some companies with variations. However by 2030 the responsibilities of Medical Affairs and the associated required competencies will increase as Medical Affairs further increases their cross-functional involvement and organisation-wide influence.
At all levels, with different weightings depending on seniority, the 2030 job description will include the following:
1. Demonstrated ability to communicate complex data to a range of audiences.
2. An understanding of, and the ability to shape and influence, healthcare policy.
3. Strategic management skills and the ability to effectively execute strategic projects aligned to the organisation’s competitive positioning.
4. Learning agility, with the ability to analyse information, and to identify linkages and insights through network signalling systems.
5. An in-depth understanding of patient flows, journeys and lived experiences.
6. A working knowledge of AI and data analytics.
7. Well developed interpersonal skills with the ability to collaborate and influence.
8. A curious, open, Growth Mindset where challenges are seen as opportunities.
9. A high EQ with the ability to incorporate all the principles of emotional intelligence into working practices.
10. Business acumen with an understanding of how Medical Affairs fits into a company’s business model and delivers commercial value.
The 2030 job description will contain Medical Affairs KPIs that relate to the company’s strategic positioning and specific objectives rather than ‘standardised’ performance measures; and the qualifications required will reflect the organisation’s competitive needs rather than a narrow set of degrees and experience.
The full report from the Strategic Leadership conference will be published by Matthew Britland, MedWise Consultingand Steve Royle, Rumi.