At AstraZenecas Oncology R&D division we follow the science to explore and innovate. We are working towards treating preventing modifying and even curing some of the worlds most sophisticated diseases. Here we have the potential to grow our pipeline and positively impact the lives of billions of patients around the world. We are committed to making a difference and have built our business around our passion for science. Now we are fusing data and technology with the latest scientific innovations to achieve the next wave of breakthroughs.
Position Summary
The Cell Therapy CMC Program Lead Directoris responsible forleading cross-functional matrix teams within Cell Therapy Development & Operations on multiple projects frominceptionthrough completion coordinating activities to develop the physical product manufacturing process supplychainand regulatory files. This position reports into the Head of CMC Cell Therapy Portfolio Strategy and interfaces directly with the CMCProgramSteering Committee for escalations strategic decisions and reporting. This position is based in either Santa Monica CA or Gaithersburg MD.
Responsibilities
Build grow and mature the CMC function within Technical Operations.
Must possess strong communication skills and must be savvy working with technology process development analytical development manufacturing and business partners across the organization in a collaborative way.
Prepare project team and steering committee materials related to their assigned projects and ensure project work aligns with established practices policies and processes.
Project issues and risks must be identified and supervised and plans to resolve these issues must be developed and solutions implemented.
Lead the strategic planning and execution of CMC programs for cell therapy products from early development through commercialization.
Collaborate cross-functionally with R&D Manufacturing Quality Regulatory Affairs and other departments to drive program success and alignment with business objectives.
Develop and lead program timelines budgets and resources to meet project achievements and deliverables.
Identifies and anticipates CMC-related risks/constraints to timing and resources.
Provide strategic guidance and oversight for CMC-related regulatory submissions including IND BLA and other regulatory filings.
Drive continuous improvement initiatives to optimize CMC processes systems and workflows.
Lead and mentor a team of program managers and specialists to ensure commitment collaboration and professional development.
Consistently maintains a positive & professional approach in communication e.g. maintaining composure under pressure and leading up.
Foster strong relationships with external partners vendors and team members to support program goals and objectives.
Prepare and present program updates reports and strategic recommendations to senior management and key team members.
Stay informed of industry trends emerging technologies and regulatory developments in cell therapy CMC to advise program strategies and decisions.
Drive continuous improvement initiatives within the CMC project management function to enhance efficiency productivity and quality.
Advises project communications and ensures that all project customers are fully informed and knowledgeable of project activities and their status.
Collaborates with functional leaders to ensure that functional area resources are sufficient to achieve project goals and objectives.
Promote a culture of collaboration cooperation cross functional inclusion execution excellence effective communication and cross-functional problem-solving to become a successful team.
Supervisory Responsibilities
Provides leadership to the team and functional areas to anticipate and identify sophisticated project issues which pose a challenge to achieving strategic goals. Implements plan to resolve such issues and completes corrective actions.
Selects evaluates and supports the development of direct reports.
Education and Experience
12 years with BS/BA degree in a technical engineering or life sciences subject area; 10 years with MS/MA or MBA; 6 years with PhD
8 years of leading projects/programs
Must have a relevant CMC and knowledge on developing and manufacturing along with a thorough solid understanding of the Biotech or Cell Therapy industry relevant regulations and requirements.
Experience leading matrix teams in a regulated environment.
Authored CMC sections of NDA and / or MAA for an NBE
Thorough understanding of the drug development process.
Experience with technical and scientific challenges as applying the novel assays for drug product release from pre-IND to stage products.
Willingness to occasionally travel for business purposes.
The annual base salary for this position ranges from$172466.40 - $258699.60. However base pay offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors including market location job-related experience. If hired employee will be in an at-will position and we reserve the right to modify base salary (and any other discretionary payment or compensation program) at any time including for reasons related to individual performance Company or individual department/team performance and market factors.
When we put unexpected teams in the same room we fuel bold thinking with the power to inspire life-changing -person working gives us the platform to connect work at pace and challenge perceptions. Thats why we work on average a minimum of three days per week from the office. But that doesnt mean were not flexible. We balance the expectation of being in the office while respecting individual flexibility. Join us in our unique and bold world.
Date Posted
28-Jan-2026Closing Date
12-Feb-2026Our mission is to build an inclusive environment where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants and furtherance of that mission we welcome and consider applications from all qualified candidates regardless of their protected characteristics. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation please complete the corresponding section in the application form.
Required Experience:
Director
AstraZeneca is an equal opportunity employer. AstraZeneca will consider all qualified applicants for employment without discrimination on grounds of disability, sex or sexual orientation, pregnancy or maternity leave status, race or national or ethnic origin, age, religion or belief, ... View more