Legal Director, Innovative Medicine

About the role

Provides strategic legal counsel and proactive support to the Innovative Medicine Japan organization, working collaboratively with cross‑functional stakeholders and all legal practice groups.

Key responsibilities

• Advise on commercial law matters including contracts, healthcare regulations, competition, anti‑corruption, copyrights, and labor laws.
• Partner with functions such as Sales, Medical Affairs, R&D, Regulatory, Government Affairs, Quality & Safety, Supply Chain, HR, Procurement, Communications and General Affairs to deliver practical legal guidance.
• Assess legal and compliance risks, implement policies, procedures and training programs, and ensure consistent compliance with applicable laws and J&J policies.
• Draft, negotiate and execute major business development agreements, oversee litigation, disputes and investigations, and manage outside counsel and budgets.
• Perform corporate governance functions for Innovative Medicine Japan, including board and shareholder reporting.

Required profile

• JD or equivalent law degree with a license to practice law in Japan (preferred).
• Minimum 10 years post‑qualification experience, preferably in multinational corporations and the healthcare industry.
• Fluent in written and spoken English.
• Ability to work effectively in a multinational, cross‑border environment and navigate Japan’s legal framework.

Required skills

• Strong judgment, communication and consultative skills.
• Experience in commercial law, compliance management, corporate governance, dispute resolution and risk management.
• Ability to lead and collaborate with internal and external stakeholders, including global legal teams.