Executive Director, Vaccine Drug Product Development

Merck seeks an Executive Director to lead vaccine drug product development strategy and execution across the portfolio, from early development through commercialization. The role combines scientific expertise with organizational leadership, requiring strategic vision and talent development capabilities to advance vaccine innovation.

Responsibilities

• Define and execute strategic vision and operating model for vaccine drug product portfolio aligned with business objectives
• Lead vaccine development end-to-end including formulation, process development, manufacturing, technology transfer, and launch
• Provide data-driven recommendations to senior leadership integrating scientific, technical, regulatory, and business perspectives
• Build, develop, and mentor high-performing teams while fostering accountability, innovation, and continuous improvement
• Establish cross-functional partnerships with Development, Manufacturing, Regulatory, Quality, and Commercial functions

Requirements

• Ph.D. or equivalent advanced degree in pharmaceutical sciences, engineering, immunology, biochemistry, or related field
• 12+ years of vaccine, biologics, or sterile drug product development experience
• Significant leadership experience in vaccine drug product strategy across CMC, regulatory, and launch activities
• Demonstrated success leading organizations and influencing cross-functional decisions in complex environments
• Deep expertise in formulation, process development, sterile manufacturing, and regulatory submissions
• Strong business acumen and ability to connect clinical development to commercialization
• Proven talent development and organizational leadership track record