Director of Medical Affairs Job Description

by Ellie Williams

A director of medical affairs combines medical and management training to oversee both the clinical and administrative aspects of running a medical organization. The director usually has a medical degree along with administrative or supervisory experience. Duties vary widely depending on the type of organization. At some organizations, for example, director of medical affairs plays a primarily clinical role, leading the development of medical procedures and technology.


A director of medical affairs needs at least a graduate degree in a life science such as biology. Most institutions prefer candidates with a doctor of medicine (M.D.) and possibly a master of business administration (MBA) or a master of health care administration (MHA). In addition, directors must be licensed to practice medicine in their state. If they work within a specific aspect of medicine, such as at a surgical center, they must hold board certification in that specialty.

Clinical Duties

Medical affairs directors sometimes play a significant role in medical research or product development. They might oversee clinical trials by designing the programs, monitoring them for safety, reporting adverse events and providing documentation to regulatory agencies. They might also lead the development of vaccines, medicines, and medical equipment and technology. At hospitals and other health care organizations, they might monitor the quality of patient care, evaluating the facility for safety, efficiency and adherence to federal health care regulations.

Administrative Duties

Medical affairs directors provide support both to employees and customers. For example, they frequently work with the marketing department to promote the company’s health care services or products. They often provide input on both the design and content of marketing materials. They also collaborate with the legal team to ensure the accuracy of all documentation. In addition, they represent the company at conferences and other events, respond to customer complaints or questions, and provide on-site training to physicians using the company’s product.

Work Environment

Medical affairs directors typically report directly to the chief medical officer or CEO, and may supervise the entire health care staff or a specific unit such as research and development. The rarely play a hands-on role in patient care or in the development of medicines or medical procedures, instead acting as a liaison between staff and senior management or the company and the public. They also establish goals for specific projects and offer guidance. They work primarily in an office, but may be required to travel to meet with clients or attend medical conferences.

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