Associate Director, Translational Operations

Associate Director, Translational Operations Santa Monica, CA, Gaithersburg, MD or Los Angeles, CA At AstraZeneca's 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 world's most complex 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. AstraZeneca's Oncology R&D division is dedicated to pioneering the treatment, prevention, and modification of complex diseases. As part of our mission, we are looking for an Associate Director, Translational Operations to play a pivotal role in managing vendor relationships and clinical biospecimen operations, overseeing logistics and analysis of Human Biological Samples (HBS) within our clinical trial programs, with special focus on cell therapy clinical trials. Responsibilities: Lead translational operations for cell therapy clinical trials, supporting clinical operations and managing external vendors to ensure, high-quality and budget-compliant biospecimen logistics and analysis. Oversee HBS logistics from trial sites to analytical labs, ensuring sample integrity and traceability, and compliance with contracted timelines. Be the primary contact for operational vendor management, collaborating with scientific teams on vendor selection, onboarding, and integration. Negotiate and execute contracts (e.g., Master Services Agreements, Scope of Work/Work Orders, Data Transfer Agreements, etc.) working cross functionally with Clinical, Data Management, Legal, Procurement, and Finance teams. Collaborate with program teams to maintain development plans, assess risks, and implement corrective actions. Troubleshoot and resolve issues with sample collection, processing, storage, and shipment in collaboration with Clinical Operations, CROs, and vendors. Lead meetings, track action items, and ensure prompt execution of follow-up actions, ensure compliance with AZ guidelines and contribute to clinical/regulatory documentation. Education and Experience: BS with at least 8 years, MS with 5 years and PhD with 3 years of relevant experience in biospecimen management, clinical research, or translational operations. Experience in vendor management, contract negotiation, and human biosample logistics within clinical trials. Familiarity with LIMS (Laboratory Information Management Systems) and experience with biomarker assays, pharmacokinetic analysis, and related laboratory techniques. Ability to lead cross-functional teams and manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment. Effectively collaborate with diverse teams and present findings to both technical and non-technical partners. When we put unexpected teams in the same room, we fuel bold thinking with the power to inspire life-changing medicines. In-person working gives us the platform we need to connect, work at pace and challenge perceptions. That’s why we work, on average, a minimum of three days per week from the office. But that doesn't mean we’re not flexible. We balance the expectation of being in the office while respecting individual flexibility. Join us in our unique and ambitious world. The annual base salary for this position ranges from $142,377.00 to $213,566.00. 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. Benefits Short-term incentive bonus opportunity Equity-based long-term incentive program 401(k) plan Paid vacation and holidays; paid leaves Health benefits including medical, prescription drug, dental, and vision coverage. AstraZeneca embraces diversity and equality of opportunity. We are committed to building an inclusive and diverse team representing all backgrounds, with as wide a range of perspectives as possible, and harnessing industry-leading skills. We believe that the more inclusive we are, the better our work will be. We welcome and consider applications to join our team from all qualified candidates, regardless of their characteristics. We comply with all applicable laws and regulations on non-discrimination in employment (and recruitment), as well as work authorization and employment eligibility verification requirements. #LI-Onsite Date Posted 30-Jun-2026 Closing Date Our mission is to build an inclusive environment where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants and employees. In 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. AstraZeneca is a global, science-led, patient-focused biopharmaceutical company. We focus on discovering, developing and commercialising prescription medicines for some of the world’s most serious diseases. But we are more than one of the world’s leading pharmaceutical companies. At AstraZeneca, we’re dedicated to being a Great Place to Work. Where you are empowered to push the boundaries of science, challenge convention and unleash your entrepreneurial spirit. To embrace differences and take bold actions to drive the change needed to meet global healthcare and sustainability challenges. There is no better place to make a difference in medicine, patients, and society. An inclusive culture where you will connect different thinking to generate new and valuable opportunities. Where you will find a commitment to lifelong learning, growth and development for all. Our Inclusion & Diversity (I&D) mission is to create an inclusive and equitable environment where people belong, using the power of our diversity to push the boundaries of science to deliver life-changing medicines to patients. Inclusion and diversity are fundamental to the success of our company, because innovation requires breakthrough ideas that only come from a diverse workforce empowered to challenge conventional thinking. We’re curious about science and the advancement of knowledge. We find creative ways to approach new challenges. We’re driven to make the right choices and be accountable for our actions. As an organisation centred around what makes us human, we put a big focus on people. Across our business, we want colleagues to wake up excited about their day at the office, in the field, or in the lab. Along with our purpose to bring life-changing medicines to people across the globe, we have a promise to you: to help you realise the full breadth of your potential. Here, you’ll do work that has the potential to change your life and improve countless others. And, together with your team, you’ll shape a culture that unites and inspires us every day. This is your life at AstraZeneca.