Executive Director, Program Management - Pharmaceutical
About The Position
Ardelyx is seeking an Executive Director, Program Management to work closely with product teams and R&D functions to translate asset strategy into integrated development plans and drive execution of key program objectives. The role works across non-clinical development, clinical development and science, clinical operations, regulatory, medical writing, and biometrics to guide strategic planning, manage timelines and interdependencies, identify and mitigate risks, integrate project plans, and facilitate timely decision-making. This role reports to the Vice President, Asset Strategy. It is a hybrid position requiring 2–3 days per week at Ardelyx’s Newark, California office; only local candidates will be considered. The anticipated annualized base pay range is $290,000–$350,000. Compensation may also include an annual bonus target and equity awards, subject to eligibility and other requirements.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree and 15+ years of project management experience in drug development, or equivalent experience.
- Strong understanding of the drug development process and U.S. and ex-U.S. regulatory requirements, including demonstrated NDA/BLA submission experience.
- Experience in early-stage programs from preclinical through Phase I/II and late-stage development, including Phase II/III pivotal programs.
- Proven project management leadership and ability to drive complex programs with cross-functional team alignment to meet business needs.
- Ability to balance strategic program needs with tactical day-to-day activities.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, including conflict resolution, diplomacy, and the ability to influence others.
- Collaborative team-player approach, promoting open communication and responding effectively to urgent needs.
- Ability to develop and manage accurate integrated project plans and timelines.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Project, PowerPoint, and Excel.
Nice To Haves
- PMP certification.
Responsibilities
- Lead team discussions on project strategies, short- and long-term planning, opportunities to expedite timelines, and resource constraints, ensuring appropriate escalation.
- Partner with R&D functions and manage overlapping timelines and interdependent deliverables to support timely execution of clinical operations activities and regulatory submissions.
- Support Product Team meetings using meeting management best practices to drive scenario planning, cross-functional communication, decision-making, and execution of program objectives.
- Develop agendas and summarize meeting discussions and decisions, including program updates and recommendations for senior leadership.
- Develop, track, and maintain integrated project development plans, deliverables, and milestones.
- Communicate interdependencies, critical-path activities, and alignment with corporate goals, providing project management guidance.
- Build strong working relationships with cross-functional team members and external vendors to foster collaboration.
- Lead scenario planning to evaluate development options and their implications for timelines, costs, resources, and program risk.
- Establish and improve program management practices, tools, and reporting to strengthen execution across the development portfolio.
Benefits
- 401(k) plan with generous employer match.
- 12 weeks of paid parental leave.
- Up to 12 weeks of living organ and bone marrow leave.
- Equity incentive plans.
- Health plans covering medical, prescription drug, dental, and vision.
- Life insurance and disability coverage.
- Flexible time off.
- Annual Winter Holiday shutdown.
- At least 11 paid holidays.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Director
