Senior Director, Quality AI, Data & Technology Engineering

Vertex Pharmaceuticals • Boston, MA

1d • Hybrid

About The Position

Vertex is seeking a Senior Director to define and execute the strategic vision for transforming global Quality operations through AI, data, and technology. The role champions AI-driven approaches across Quality activities, including batch release, assurance, oversight, compliance, inspection readiness, deviation management, and corrective and preventive actions. The position works across Vertex business units, internal teams, external partners, and operating models to advance the end-to-end global Quality experience.

The Senior Director is a member of the Data & Technology Engineering leadership community and the Data & Technology Engineering, Biopharmaceutical Science, Manufacturing, Supply & Quality Leadership Team. The role partners with leaders in Quality, Manufacturing, R&D, Supply Chain, data science, infrastructure, data platforms, and security to deliver scalable, compliant solutions.

The position leads strategy and execution for AI-powered Quality technology, including generative AI, agentic AI, machine learning, data products, and data-driven automation. It evaluates opportunities and risks in regulated Quality environments, delivers solutions aligned with architectural standards and governance, and leads coordinated digital transformation across CMC, Manufacturing, Supply Chain, and Quality. The role also leads and develops a diverse technology team, builds partnerships, and represents the Quality technology organization internally and externally.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, such as Business, Computer Science, or Engineering.
• 12 or more years of experience.
• 5 or more years of management experience.
• 2 or more years of experience setting agentic AI vision and developing governance frameworks.
• Experience creating and applying technologies to computationally intensive and data-intensive challenges within Quality or similarly regulated life sciences environments.
• Demonstrated success developing and implementing technology strategies within complex organizations; pharmaceutical Quality experience is preferred.
• Proven experience delivering multiple complex technology development or transformation initiatives.
• Extensive knowledge of global Quality environments and ability to translate user needs into effective technology solutions.
• Strong understanding of biotech regulatory requirements, compliance, and integrity in systems, processes, and actions.
• Ability to communicate strategic ideas, technology solutions, and complex concepts to technical and non-technical audiences at all organizational levels.
• Exceptional strategic thinking, problem-solving, organizational leadership, and team-building capabilities.
• Knowledge of artificial intelligence and machine learning, generative AI and agentic AI, and data-driven automation.
• Knowledge of data products and data science; Quality technology platforms and transactional systems; Quality assurance and oversight technology; inspection readiness and inspection management; deviation management; corrective and preventive action processes; and product batch release processes.
• Knowledge of internal and external technology integrations, software and technology solution evaluation, data platforms and infrastructure, cybersecurity and technology security, distributed and cloud computing environments, high-performance computing, and technology architecture, standards, governance, and risk management.

Nice To Haves

• Experience leading AI, data, or technology transformation in a global pharmaceutical Quality organization.
• Experience supporting clinical and commercial supply operations.
• Experience working across CMC, Manufacturing, Supply Chain, Quality, and R&D functions.
• Experience partnering with external technology suppliers and service providers in highly regulated environments.
• Advanced certification in product management, Agile, software engineering, leadership, or a related discipline.
• Experience developing scalable solutions that balance innovation, operational needs, regulatory compliance, and security.

Responsibilities

• Develop, communicate, and execute a vision for AI-powered Quality technology solutions across global internal and external operations.
• Shape a strategic roadmap using generative AI, agentic AI, machine learning, data products, and data-driven automation to transform Quality processes.
• Partner with Quality leadership to align technology strategies with portfolio and commercial priorities and operational excellence.
• Lead strategic thinking across Quality oversight, inspection readiness, batch release, compliance, and related global Quality activities.
• Influence internal and external stakeholders to identify and prioritize innovation opportunities.
• Identify, evaluate, and advance opportunities involving AI, data science, data products, integrations, software, protocols, and technology platforms.
• Assess the applicability, value, risks, and compliance considerations of AI-enabled solutions in regulated Quality environments.
• Deliver scalable, reusable technology solutions aligned with Vertex architectural principles, standards, and governance.
• Establish operating practices that maximize financial, resource, and operational effectiveness.
• Lead a Quality technology operation that supports drug research, manufacturing, and product supply while maximizing return on investment.
• Partner with external suppliers to ensure delivery meets Vertex expectations for compliance, security, and performance.
• Drive coordinated digital transformation initiatives across CMC, Manufacturing, Supply Chain, and Quality.
• Lead, develop, and retain a high-performing and diverse team of technology professionals.
• Foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, accountability, inclusion, diversity, and equity.
• Align the Quality technology organization and data strategy with enterprise priorities, business outcomes, and regulatory requirements.
• Represent the Quality technology organization in internal and external forums and advocate for innovation and strategic objectives.
• Build trusted partnerships across Quality, Manufacturing, R&D, Supply Chain, data science, technology, infrastructure, data platforms, and security.

Benefits

• Annual bonus and annual equity awards.
• Medical, dental, and vision benefits.
• Generous paid time off, including a week-long company shutdown in the Summer and Winter.
• Educational assistance programs, including student loan repayment.
• Commuting subsidy.
• Matching charitable donations.
• 401(k).
• Other benefits and resources supporting employees’ career, financial, family, and wellbeing needs.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior