Associate Director, Supply Chain Management
Merck
September 01, 2026
Full-time
Remote friendly (Durham, NC)
Worldwide
Operations
Role: Associate Director, Supply Chain Management within Global Launch Planning, responsible for end-to-end execution of new product launches in major markets. Primary objectives include leading cross-functional launch teams, developing and maintaining launch plans, identifying risks, and ensuring smooth transition to sustaining operations. Responsibilities encompass launch execution, risk mitigation, supply scenario development, and stakeholder engagement across functions like Manufacturing, Commercial, and Supply Chain. The role also involves process improvement, metrics tracking, and cross-enterprise communication, especially during launch and hypercare phases. Qualifications require a Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Engineering, Science, or related field, along with 7+ years of experience in pharma/biotech supply chain, launch planning, or manufacturing operations. Preferred skills include experience in launch management, familiarity with planning systems (e.g., SAP, Kinaxis), and certifications like APICS CSCP or Lean/Six Sigma. High-value specifics involve managing launches in the biotech or pharmaceutical sector, with a focus on new product introductions, supply chain risk management, and cross-functional collaboration in a global, hybrid work setting. Travel is approximately 10%. The position reports to the Director, Supply Chain Management, and emphasizes leadership influence without direct reports.