Pharmaceutical Sciences, Strategy & Operations Lead (Sr. Director)

Takeda • Boston, MA

1d • Hybrid

About The Position

By clicking the “Apply” button, I understand that my employment application process with Takeda will commence and that the information I provide in my application will be processed in line with Takeda’s Privacy Notice and Terms of Use. I further attest that all information I submit in my employment application is true to the best of my knowledge. Job Description Objectives/Purpose: Drive the execution of Pharm Sci strategy to increase business performance, organizational efficiency while increasing speed for CMC deliverables, including AI-forward projects and mindset. Partner with PS partners and leadership to identify, prioritize, and lead enterprise-wide transformation initiatives, with a focus on increasing CMC productivity and ensure CMC costs are financially sustainable with increasing R&D portfolio. Organize and structure Pharm Sci operations efficiently, including key cross-functional programs, leadership meetings, , transparency, and delivery of measurable value across global sites. Simplify a complex situation to help lead through ambiguity. In collaboration with lean experts and scientists, drive simplification of processes and systems to improve agility and foster a culture of high performance. Scope: Drives and influences strategy, business performance, and transformation initiatives across the global Pharmaceutical Sciences organization with internal sites in Boston, Vienna, and Shonan as well as a network of outsourcing partners. Accountable for putting efficient structure and systems that helps functioning of Pharm Sci operations internally and collaborations with partners. Lead cost optimization and business performance programs across the CMC internal and external spend in partnership with Finance, R&D, Global Supply & Quality and Commercial functions. Operates as an individual contributor with significant cross-functional team leadership, affecting enterprise-wide priorities, efficiency, and cultural evolution. One of the main components of change is to help foster AI-forward mindset and implementing systems to bring new ways of working in the organization.

Requirements

• Advanced degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chemical Engineering, or related discipline (PhD, MS, or equivalent required).
• 10+ years in CMC product development or related pharmaceutical/biopharma experience, with a track record of delivering complex technical/business programs at the global level.
• Strong expertise in cost management, business analytics, and operational excellence (Lean, Six Sigma, etc.).
• Track record to structure and organize leadership teams and organizational operation is a must.
• Ability to simplify complex information and situations to effectively communicate and make progress towards business outcomes.
• Sets clear vision, aligns stakeholders, and mobilizes project teams to deliver on bold goals.
• Outstanding communication, collaboration, and influence with senior leaders and across diverse teams.
• Outstanding judgment and the ability to drive outcomes in complex, ambiguous environments.
• An agent for change, building buy-in for new ways of working and transformation initiatives.
• PhD (with 13-15+ years relevant industry experience), MS (with 19-21+ years relevant industry experience) or equivalent in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chemical Engineering, or closely related field (required).
• A minimum of 10 years in CMC product development or relevant pharmaceutical/biopharma business experience.
• Demonstrated success in leading complex strategic/cost programs in a global, matrixed environment.
• Exceptional communication, quantitative, analytical, and collaborative skills.
• Creative, adaptable, and solutions-oriented leadership style.
• High personal integrity and alignment with Takeda values.

Nice To Haves

• Lean/operational excellence training or practical experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the strategic partner and advisor to the SVP, Head of Pharmaceutical Sciences, driving execution of the organization’s priorities.
• Create clear framework and structure to Pharm Sci Operations and Leadership Team.
• Direct and mobilize cross-functional project teams to deliver on measurable business outcomes towards cost, speed and simplicity.
• Coordinate organization-wide strategic planning, communications, and progress tracking for the Pharm Sci Leadership Team, including regular cadence and functioning of PSLT, Pharm Sci Townhalls and key communication within Pharm Sci and stakeholders.
• Integrate and align senior stakeholders across Pharm Sci, Finance, R&D, GMS and GQ to achieve collective success.
• Develop and deliver business analytics, executive presentations, and dashboards for key decision-makers.
• Cultivate a collaborative, inclusive, and innovative environment in alignment with Takeda’s values.

Benefits

• U.S. based employees may be eligible to participate in medical, dental, vision insurance, a 401(k) plan and company match, short-term and long-term disability coverage, basic life insurance, a tuition reimbursement program, paid volunteer time off, company holidays, and well-being benefits, among others.
• U.S. based employees are also eligible to receive, per calendar year, up to 80 hours of sick time, and new hires are eligible to accrue up to 120 hours of paid vacation.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree