Director, External Development & Manufacturing

Job Overview Our company’s Pharmaceutical Sciences and Device Development (PSDD) organization translates molecules to medicines. The External Development and Manufacturing (ExDM) team is responsible for executing research‑lab drug product and device development across all phases of small and large molecule R&D. The Director, External Development & Manufacturing (ExDM) is a senior individual contributor who shapes and implements external development and manufacturing strategies, aligns internal stakeholders with external partners, and delivers high‑quality, compliant, and efficient outcomes. Location: San Francisco (Residents Only). Salary Range: $173,200.00 - $272,600.00. Strategic Leadership and Execution Translate organizational and portfolio priorities into executable strategies across ExDM programs and vendor networks. Contribute to department and enterprise‑level strategic objectives, including alignment of external capabilities with pipeline needs. Identify opportunities for innovation, operational excellence, and transformation across development and manufacturing processes. Lead and influence cross‑functional initiatives and committees, representing ExDM perspectives in strategic decision‑making forums. Serve as a strategic advisor on complex programs, development strategies, and supply approaches. Vendor Strategy and External Partnerships Proactively shape and optimize selected external vendor networks to meet evolving technical and portfolio requirements. Develop and maintain strong, trust‑based relationships with CDMOs to ensure alignment, performance, and long‑term value. Act as the primary liaison and subject‑matter expert for key vendors, driving continuous improvement in technical execution and collaboration models. Evaluate and influence vendor selection, capability assessment, and partnership strategies in collaboration with procurement and partner functions. Process Excellence and Continuous Improvement Identify, champion, and implement business process improvements across ExDM and at the internal/external interface. Lead complex, cross‑functional improvement initiatives from concept through implementation, ensuring measurable outcomes. Establish and apply best practices, governance approaches, and standardized ways of working to enhance efficiency and reliability. Drive a culture of proactive risk management, issue resolution, and continuous learning. Program and Portfolio Leadership Independently represent ExDM on complex, high‑impact programs, ensuring delivery of development and manufacturing objectives. Manage and influence across multiple stakeholders without direct authority to achieve program goals. Lead special assignments, including strategic projects, digital initiatives, or transformation efforts that span functions or programs. Provide expert guidance on technical, operational, and compliance considerations across a broad range of modalities and dosage forms. Stakeholder Engagement and Communication Build and sustain strong networks across Development, Finance, Manufacturing, Quality, Procurement, and other key functions. Facilitate alignment through effective communication, structured governance, and engagement with senior stakeholders. Present complex ideas clearly, influence decisions, and drive adoption of new approaches or strategies. Education and Experience Minimum Requirement: B.S. with a minimum of 14 years relevant industrial experience, or M.S. with 10 years of experience in Chemical Engineering, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or a related engineering/scientific discipline. Required Skills and Competencies Relevant experience in clinical manufacturing, supply chain, or external manufacturing management within the pharmaceutical industry. Significant experience in pharmaceutical development, manufacturing, or external operations. Demonstrated expertise in vendor management, program execution, and cross‑functional collaboration. Strong strategic thinking and business acumen. Proven ability to lead and influence in a matrix environment without direct authority. Experience driving process improvements and transformation initiatives. Deep understanding of GMP and regulatory considerations. Excellent communication, facilitation, and stakeholder engagement skills. Ability to navigate ambiguity and solve complex problems with creativity and rigor. EEO Statement As an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer, we provide equal opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibit discrimination on the basis of race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability status, or other applicable legally protected characteristics. As a federal contractor, we comply with all affirmative action requirements for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. We are committed to inclusion and encourage diverse perspectives in our hiring process. #J-18808-Ljbffr MSD Malaysia