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R&D Project Manager

Elanco
August 06, 2026
Remote friendly (Indianapolis, IN)
United States
Clinical Research and Development
Your Role: R&D Project Manager

Responsibilities:
- Independently manage all project management activities for complex, high-impact development programs, including schedules, costs, performance risks, scenario planning, and scope documentation.
- Own and maintain project plans, up-to-date timelines and process maps; identify/manage/communicate critical path and leading indicators; monitor performance-to-plan; ensure data completeness and quality.
- Partner with Finance and functional areas/geographies to manage the development budget (variances, re-forecasts, tool updates) and explain cost of development options.
- Assess development risks; establish mitigation/contingency plans with clear ownership; identify and communicate risks affecting the critical path; trigger contingency actions as needed.
- Drive process improvement and shared learning to streamline effectiveness, reduce cycle times, and apply PM tools to maximize business value.

Minimum Qualifications:
- BS or MS in a scientific/related field plus 8–10 years of relevant project management or related scientific experience.
- Deep knowledge of the veterinary drug development process, including coordination across global teams/functional groups/third parties; experience with regulatory submission processes and strong GCP/GLP/GMP principles.
- Mastery of PMBOK core project management fundamentals; proficiency with project management software, Microsoft Office Suite, and emerging AI platforms.
- Ability to influence without authority; lead global cross-functional teams in ambiguity; strong interpersonal/team-building skills and coaching/feedback.
- Proactive problem-solving and adaptability; anticipate systemic issues, diagnose root causes, and act; high flexibility with changing priorities.

Preferred Qualifications:
- PMP or CAPM certification.
- Direct experience in the Animal Health industry.
- Growth mindset and curiosity; eagerness to ask questions and learn quickly.
- Ability to work effectively independently and collaboratively.

Additional Information (role-related):
- Travel: up to 10% annually.
- Location: Global Elanco Headquarters (Indianapolis, IN) β€” hybrid work environment.