Executive Director, Immunology Discovery

Job Description Merck is a global health care leader focused on science‑driven discovery and development of therapeutics. This role seeks a senior executive to lead the Immunology Discovery research group focused on Autoinflammation, Autoimmunity, and Atopy therapeutics. The Executive Director will shape the Immunology discovery pipeline, define strategy, manage priorities and resources, engage with cross‑functional partners, and supervise multiple science teams from target identification to product launch. The position reports directly to the Vice President of Immunology Discovery. Primary Responsibilities Set vision and strategy for the Immunology team to deliver high‑impact drug discoveries. Manage priorities, resources, and investments aligned with the broader Immunology Discovery strategy. Partner with Research, Translational, and Clinical colleagues to manage early and late‑stage discovery programs, including FIH and POC clinical studies in human subjects. Develop talent, strategically maximize diversity to strengthen the team. Collaborate with Search & Evaluation teams to identify external business development opportunities that complement internal programs. Foster a high‑performance culture of collaboration, engagement, accountability and inclusion. Contribute to departmental strategy and staff development across Cambridge and San Diego sites as part of the Immunology Discovery leadership team. Partner with leadership across the Immunology Discovery group and other functions to achieve organizational objectives. Sustain a culture of integration, innovation, and continuous improvement in drug development. Provide cross‑functional collaboration and support for IND preparation and other regulatory submissions. Lead organizational change initiatives. Education Minimum Requirements Advanced Degree (Ph.D. or equivalent) in Immunology, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or a relevant field. Required Experience and Skills Minimum 15 years of immunology discovery research experience across all drug development stages. Significant experience with identifying and integrating external business development and academic collaborations. Deep knowledge of immune‑mediated diseases and competitive landscape in Autoinflammation, Autoimmunity and Atopy. Minimum 5 years of direct management experience overseeing multiple teams, with proven leadership ability to motivate and empower staff. Ability to shape, manage, and prioritize a portfolio of projects. Strong external network and profile demonstrated through publications and conference presentations. Experience in compound discovery and design for relevant disease targets. Awareness of safety and environmental requirements. Understanding of integration between Pharmaceutical Development, Translational Medicine, Clinical, CMC, Regulatory, Operations, Data AI and Genome Sciences. Critical thinking and innovative mindset. Effective communication, collaboration, and negotiation skills with senior‑level managers. Preferred Experience and Skills Experience in budget planning & management, establishing product development strategies, and managing scientific staff personnel decisions. Ability to develop cost‑effective development plans and a strong sense of value for investment. Working knowledge of FDA and other regulatory requirements for IND submission and early POC studies. Required Skills Autoimmune Diseases Collaboration Cross‑Functional Teamwork Drug Development Immunology Leadership People Management Strategy Development Work Collaboratively Preferred Skills No additional preferred skills beyond those listed. Current Employees apply. Current Contingent Workers apply. US and Puerto Rico Residents Only. Compensation and Benefits Salary range: $231,900.00 – $365,000.00. The role offers an annual bonus and long‑term incentive, if applicable. A comprehensive benefits package includes medical, dental, vision, other insurance benefits, 401(k), paid holidays, vacation, and compassionate and sick days. Equal Employment Opportunity Statement Merck is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. We prohibit discrimination on the basis of race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability status, or other legally protected characteristics. As a federal contractor, we comply with affirmative action requirements. For more information about personal rights under U.S. Equal Opportunity Employment laws, please refer to the EEOC resources. Other Information Employee Status: Regular. Relocation: Domestic/International. Visa Sponsorship: Yes. Travel Requirements: 10%. Flexible Work Arrangements: Hybrid. Shift: 1st – Day. Valid Driving License: No. Job posting end date: 07/13/2026. The posting is effective until 11:59:59 PM on the day before the listed end date. #J-18808-Ljbffr MSD Malaysia