ABOUT CQDM
CQDM is a biopharmaceutical research consortium whose mission is to fund the development of innovative tools and technologies that accelerate the development of safe and effective drugs. We bring together world-leading pharmaceutical organizations, several Canadian biotech companies, the best researchers from the public and private sectors, as well as the Canadian and Quebec governments. Our collaborative approach bridges the funding gap needed to drive innovation, especially where early-stage research is concerned.
POSITION SUMMARY
As Senior Advisor – Partnerships & Innovation Policy, you will play a key role in promoting CQDM’s strategic influence among provincial and federal stakeholders, while actively contributing to the implementation of strategic priorities. Your role will consist of supporting the development of the life sciences ecosystem by guiding CQDM’s actions to maximize their impact. Through your network, your in-depth knowledge of innovation policy issues—particularly in the biopharmaceutical sector—and your understanding of best practices, you will help effectively mobilize CQDM’s internal and external stakeholders around shared objectives.
Working closely with senior management, you will be at the heart of developing and maintaining strategic partnerships with key players from government, institutional, and private sectors, both in Quebec and across Canada. Specifically, you will participate in the development and implementation of initiatives that shape the ecosystem, the creation of high-impact partnerships, and the securing of funding to enable CQDM to respond more effectively to the specific challenges of biopharmaceutical innovation.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Analysis and Promotion of Best Practices in Innovation Policy
- Conduct rigorous monitoring and detailed analysis of current and emerging innovation policies related to research, health, innovation, and the economy, in order to develop strategic recommendations tailored to the challenges facing the biopharmaceutical sector.
- Contribute to the dissemination and promotion of the most promising innovation policies, notably by developing position papers and participating in targeted awareness campaigns.
- Coordinate, with internal and external partners, the drafting of briefs, position papers, and funding applications to support the creation of new programs or initiatives aligned with CQDM’s mission and consistent with the priorities of funders and partners.
- Represent CQDM at consultations, sector-specific roundtables, and strategic meetings to advance the objectives of the strategic plan and strengthen the organization’s influence.
- Support the CEO in establishing strategic relationships with political offices, senior officials, and public agencies to increase CQDM’s visibility among government bodies.
Establishing Strategic Partnerships
- Ensure that the map of key players in Canada’s life sciences ecosystem—including governments, research institutions, funding agencies, and private companies—is regularly updated, while developing a thorough understanding of each stakeholder’s role.
- Identify potential complementarities and synergies with these key stakeholders, build relationships based on trust, and establish new mutually beneficial partnerships.
- Serve as a point of contact between external partners and internal teams, including business development, scientific affairs, and communications groups, to maximize the impact of established partnerships and initiatives.
- Support management in implementing the strategic plan and developing tactical roadmaps.
- Effectively manage sensitive and complex situations, such as managing multiple relationships or high-stakes issues.
DESIRED PROFILE
Education
- Master’s or doctoral degree in life or health sciences, political science, economics, or a related field.
- A background combining science and politics is a major asset.
Experience
- In-depth understanding of the Canadian research and innovation ecosystem, particularly in the biopharmaceutical sector.
- Excellent knowledge of government structures in Quebec and Canada.
- Extensive network covering the entire Canadian life sciences ecosystem as well as public decision-makers.
- Proven experience in establishing and maintaining relationships with government, institutional, and para-public stakeholders.
- Professional background demonstrating progression toward strategic roles, including the exercise of influence, inter-organizational collaboration, and the mobilization of key stakeholders.
- Demonstrated ability to operate effectively in complex and dynamic environments.
Key Skills
- Strong analytical skills combined with a sharp critical mind and exemplary attention to detail.
- Proven experience in structuring and presenting organizational priorities in the form of proposals, funding applications, or strategic presentations.
- Proven political acumen and the ability to understand and influence complex decision-making processes.
- Demonstrated cross-functional leadership and the ability to mobilize and unite multidisciplinary teams.
- Excellent communication and presentation skills when interacting with senior executives and external partners.
- Strategic business acumen and proven credibility in the life sciences, innovation, or related fields.
- Self-reliance, effective priority management, and a strong focus on achieving results.
- Fluency in French and English, both spoken and written.
LOCATION
Montreal or Ottawa
APPLICATION DEADLINE: April 10, 2026
WORKING ENVIRONMENT
At CQDM, we are committed to offering competitive employment terms and a flexible hybrid work environment. Our offices, located in the heart of downtown Montreal near the Square Victoria metro station, provide a setting that fosters collaboration and innovation.
We offer competitive compensation based on experience and qualifications, a comprehensive group insurance plan, a professional development reimbursement program, and a generous vacation policy.
Diversity is a strength at CQDM. We encourage all individuals who share our commitment to innovation in healthcare and collaboration to apply, regardless of age, gender, sexual orientation, family status, religion, origin, or disability.
If you are interested in this position, please send your cover letter and resume to
[email protected].
Take the chance to make an impact by creating a product that brings positive changes to the world.