Finance Business Partner / Workforce Planning Lead

About the role

This high‑impact position sits within a dynamic R&D environment of a leading global pharmaceutical organisation. You will act as a strategic finance business partner, supporting senior stakeholders with financial planning, headcount strategy and decision‑making.

Key responsibilities

• Lead headcount planning for 800‑2000 employees, balancing demand and capacity.
• Provide financial support to R&D/discovery teams, helping them manage and optimise budgets.
• Partner with senior leaders to drive growth plans, portfolio decisions and commercial insight.
• Ensure scalable, intentional workforce planning aligned with business needs.
• Deliver ad‑hoc financial and strategic analyses as required.

Required profile

• Background in pharmaceutical or R&D environments.
• Strong experience in financial planning, workforce/headcount strategy and business partnering.
• Proven ability to influence and collaborate with senior stakeholders.
• Proactive, energetic and commercially minded approach.
• Excellent communication and analytical skills.

Required skills

What we offer

• Flexible engagement – permanent or freelance/contract.
• Location in Ghent, a key European pharma and biotech hub.
• Opportunity to shape strategic workforce and financial planning for a global leader.