Senior Director, Program Management

Role Summary

The Senior Director, Program Management Lead (individual contributor) is assigned to high priority development asset(s). They operate as a strategic partner to the Global Program Lead (GPL), to shape and deliver the Target Product Profile (TPP) and Integrated Development Strategy (IDP) for the assigned asset(s) and associated product indications. Responsible for the rigorous execution of the IDP through matrix or line management of Program Management team members.

Responsibilities

• Program Management SME delivering as a key partner to the GPL. Serves as the strategic thought partner to the GPL / GPT and core to establish a high performing team environment
• Responsible for the execution of IDP per asset indication, this includes strong partnership with each sub-team and their leadership to ensure alignment to the TPP/IDP and clear understanding of what they are accountable to deliver.
• Leads matrixed PM team members to create and maintain integrated cross-functional timelines for each asset indication within approved systems. Timelines should include scenario plans that actively manage risk, evaluate alternative development strategies as well as acceleration opportunities (or cost savings).
• Leads risk management activities at the GPT and ensures risk management activities at the sub-teams and below are performed with timely escalation for high probability x high impact risks. Responsible for delivering the risk management plan, including risk mitigation strategies.
• Responsible to monitor high level direct budget and resource forecasts for assigned asset(s) vs actual spend and effort respectively. Maintains visibility advocacy for the resources required to deliver the IDP.
• Delivers as a PM SME in discussions with leadership or at governance stage gates.
• Supports GPT annual objective processes and budget planning including annual and long-term processes.
• Serves as a matrix manager for Program Management resources assigned to the asset.
• Supports their DD PM Group Leads to deliver asset or portfolio content as required.
• Foster cross-functional thinking to drive and shape program strategy and drive optimal decisions for the broader portfolio.
• Expected to lead as a change agent and strong representative of the DD PM department vision and ways of working.

Qualifications

• Advanced degree (MS/MBA or Ph.D. desirable) in Life Sciences, Chemical Sciences, Physical Sciences, or other relevant discipline. PMP certification is desirable.
• 15+ years of industry experience, with at least 12 years of direct experience in drug development program / project management including evidence leading complex global programs across multiple therapy areas (significant experience in Neuroscience or Oncology therapy areas is desired)
• Demonstrated long standing experience in all phases of research and drug development, including global regulatory submissions (IND/CTA through NDA/BLA/MAA/JNDA/ NDA China) and lifecycle management.
• Proven success as a PM delivering complex programs teams at the highest levels of enterprise visibility. Long-standing experience which demonstrates strong matrix leadership abilities.
• Excellent executive presence with ability to present, influence, and gain alignment at senior governance and executive leadership levels.
• Demonstrated ability to manage interdependencies across therapeutic areas, disease areas, functions, and geographies.
• Advanced expertise with PM methodologies and tools. Most specifically stakeholder management and core Project Management soft skills.
• Ability to resolve critical technical/business problems and shape long-term development strategy for programs of enterprise significance.

Skills

• Strategic program management
• Risk management and mitigation planning
• Cross-functional leadership and matrix management
• Budget and resource forecasting
• Executive communication and governance diligence

Education

• Advanced degree as listed above (MS/MBA or Ph.D. desirable)
• PMP certification is desirable

Additional Requirements

• Reporting Relationship: Reports to a Drug Development Program Management Portfolio (Group) Lead.