Sr. Director/VP, Information Technology

Merida Biosciences•Cambridge, MA

About The Position

At Merida Biosciences, we are pioneering true precision medicines for antibody-driven diseases. We specifically target pathogenic antibodies and their cellular sources with bespoke Fc biotherapeutics engineered to selectively and completely eliminate the root causes of autoimmune and allergic diseases, and to achieve deep, durable responses while preserving essential immunity. We are looking for passionate individuals to join our mission to transform treatment paradigms across the spectrum of antibody-driven diseases. The Sr. Director of IT will be responsible for developing and executing Merida’s IT strategy across research, development, and corporate functions. Reporting to the Chief Operating Officer, this leader will establish the foundational systems, infrastructure, and governance required to support a growing biotech organization. This role requires both strategic vision and operational execution. The ideal candidate thrives in an early-stage environment, enjoys building and can balance immediate business needs with long-term scalability.

Requirements

10+ years of progressive IT leadership experience, ideally within biotech, pharma, or life sciences
Experience building IT infrastructure in an early-stage or high-growth environment
Strong knowledge of cloud-based environments (Azure, AWS), cybersecurity frameworks, and enterprise SaaS platforms
Experience supporting GxP-regulated environments and preparing for audits
Demonstrated success implementing ERP, HRIS, and other enterprise systems
Strong vendor management and negotiation skills
Excellent communication skills with the ability to translate technical concepts for non-technical stakeholders
Builder mindset with strong execution capability
Highly collaborative and service-oriented
Comfortable operating in ambiguity and scaling alongside company growth
Strategic thinker who can also “roll up sleeves” when needed
High integrity and commitment to data security and compliance

Responsibilities

Develop and execute a comprehensive IT roadmap aligned with company growth and scientific priorities
Serve as a strategic partner to executive leadership on technology planning and digital enablement
Establish IT governance, policies, and best practices appropriate for a regulated biotech environment
Build and manage secure, scalable cloud-based infrastructure (e.g., M365, collaboration tools, identity management, endpoint management)
Lead selection and implementation of enterprise systems (ERP, HRIS, finance, clinical systems, document management, etc.)
Support research IT needs, including lab systems, data storage, and scientific computing environments
Develop and maintain a robust cybersecurity program
Ensure compliance with relevant regulatory and data privacy standards (e.g., GxP, SOX readiness, HIPAA where applicable)
Manage vendor risk assessments and IT audits
Select and manage managed service providers (MSPs) and key technology vendors
Develop and oversee the IT budget
Negotiate contracts and ensure cost-effective solutions
Build and lead an internal IT team over time as the company grows
Establish support processes and service levels for employees
Foster a culture of responsiveness, innovation, and operational excellence