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Director, Patient Services & Vendor Strategy

Lexington, MA

Kiniksa Pharmaceuticals is a commercial‑stage biopharmaceutical company developing and commercializing novel therapies for diseases with unmet need, with a focus on cardiovascular indications. With deep expertise in immunology and inflammation, Kiniksa is advancing a growing portfolio of approved and investigational medicines, anchored by its lead product, ARCALYST®, the first and only FDA‑approved therapy for recurrent pericarditis. Grounded in rigorous science and bold innovation, the company fosters a highly collaborative, patient‑first culture led by accomplished life sciences leaders. At Kiniksa, talented individuals are trusted and empowered to make a real impact—shaping the future of medicine while improving the lives of patients who need it most.

The Director, Patient Services Access and Vendor Strategy is a key member within the Patient Services team, responsible for managing patient access for all Kiniksa Products.  The Patient Services program is a critical strategic and operational aspect to help establish Kiniksa as a leading biologics organization.  This position will report directly to the Vice President of Patient Services.

The Director, Patient Services Access and Vendor Strategy will drive the overarching strategy for Kiniksa’s Patient Services Financial Assistance, Reimbursement, and Patient Educational programs including purpose, design, approval, implementation, and ongoing management of programs and vendors.  This role will work cross functionally with Market Access, Marketing, Legal, Compliance and Commercial Leadership to build and align programs that will impact Kiniksa’s portfolio. This position will demonstrate a strategic mindset, business acumen, and strong leadership skills. 

This role is based in Kiniksa’s Lexington office.   Our office-based employees follow a hybrid schedule of 4 days in office and 1 day remote. 

Responsibilities (including, but not limited to): 

  • Lead the process to design patient access programs that are aligned to brand objectives, patient needs, patient services strategy, and commercial goals 
  • Manage the oversight of existing access programs including vendor management, business rules, KPIs, and success factors to understand areas of continued improvement 
  • Establish, and maintain cross-functional partnership with Market Access, Marketing, Patient Services, and Government Affairs to create tactics supporting business critical strategies. Partner with key stakeholders to create a vision and measures of success of how new insurance opportunities can drive overall patient health, access to therapy via insurance, and overall brand success 
  • Collaborate with Market Access Team and Head of Patient Services to understand payer access strategies for Commercial and Governmental insurances and the impact on patient access tactics. Follow business environment changes to understand impact on existing programs or the need for new programs including eligibility, support levels, and program scope 
  • Monitor the US healthcare environment in close partnership with Market Access, Government Affairs, and others to understand environmental factors and their impact on patients. Work with Patient Services Operational Leaders on the successful implementation, training, and day-to-day execution of the different support programs 
  • Design programs in partnership with Legal and Compliance partners to ensure full compliance with all programs and offerings 
  • Proactively monitor and communication information and results to all cross-functional partners to allow for informed business decisions and discussions 
  • Manage related projects and provide guidance to internal and external partners 
  • Establish process for collection and sharing of best practices, including management of vendor QBRs 
  • Oversee project financials and performance monitoring; ensure transparency in progress and alignment with business goals 

Qualifications: 

  • BA/BS required; advanced degree preferred 
  • 5-8 years of experience in the pharmaceutical or related industry with at least 5 years of experience supporting a comprehensive patient services program in the pharmaceutical industry 
  • 5+ years of pharmaceutical reimbursement and financial assistance experience 
  • Experience with direct patient access program design and oversight responsibilities required, include vendor management and budgetary management 
  • Proven leadership, strong interpersonal skills, and excellent written and verbal communication skills. Documented record of strong internal and external relationships 
  • Analytical and reporting experience required 
  • Strategic development, departmental/functional business planning and resource development related to Patient Support Program processes, and management experience preferred 
  • In depth understanding of all relevant US legal, compliance, and regulatory requirements required with a strong commitment to compliance and ethical standards 
  • Ability to work independently in a dynamic, fast-paced environment 
  • Experience in rare diseases / specialty medicines is highly desirable 
  • Ability to travel as needed 
 

Compensation decisions are based on objective criteria including role responsibilities, experience/qualifications, internal equity, geographic location, and external market benchmarks.

Pay Range

$225,000 - $235,000 USD

Kiniksa is an Equal Opportunity employer and will consider you without regard to your race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, transgender status, age, genetics, national origin, protected veteran status, or disability status, or any other legally protected category. We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation. 

Kiniksa does not accept unsolicited resumes from staffing agencies or search firms. Any resumes submitted without a signed agreement will be considered property of Kiniksa, and no fees will be paid.

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