Associate Director

Position Summary The Associate Director, CDMO Alliance Management, Global External Manufacturing (GEM) will serve as Otsuka’s representative and business partner toward our network of Contract Development and Manufacturing Organizations (CDMOs). This leader is responsible for the end-to-end lifecycle of partner management—from initial selection and complex contract negotiations to long-term strategic relationship building. The Associate Director ensures that the external manufacturing network is high-performing, risk-resilient, and fully aligned with Otsuka’s strategic business objectives. Day to day responsibilities include building and maintaining relationships with key external partners, coordinating cross-functional collaboration with internal teams, and aligning partnership initiatives. Key Responsibilities Contract and Partner Management Serve as the central point of contact and business partner for CDMOs, ensuring alignment between partner actions and company goals. Contract Negotiation to structure agreements, manage terms, and collaborate with legal and internal stakeholders. Standardize Governance and Business Review structure with CDMO executive leadership to ensure long-term collaboration. Performance Monitoring and Improvement Define, set, and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) to hold CDMOs accountable for delivery and quality. Support comprehensive risk assessments focused on stable supply chains and quality assurance at partner sites. Facilitate discussions and drive the implementation of improvement measures based on KPI performance data and identified risks. Conduct business-side assessments during GMP audits led by the Quality Team to ensure commercial and operational viability. Internal and External Coordination Support the internal decision-making process regarding new CDMO selections and major capital investments. Act as the lead for cross-departmental coordination when major incidents occur, ensuring rapid resolution while daily operations remain with functional teams. Collaborate with internal departments to identify supply risks stemming from regulatory shifts, demand volatility, or manufacturing deviations, and lead the execution of countermeasures at the CDMO level. Qualifications and Preferred Experience Education: Bachelor’s degree in Science, Engineering, Business, or a related field (MBA or advanced degree preferred). Professional Experience: 8-12+ years of experience in alliance management, strategic sourcing, or external manufacturing within the pharmaceutical or biotech industry. Strategic Soft Skills: Proven ability to influence and collaborate with cross-functional stakeholders in a complex, matrixed organization. Operational Excellence: Strong background in risk management, business continuity planning, and performance analytics (KPIs). Communication: Exceptional negotiation and communication skills, with the ability to navigate sensitive partner relationships and internal executive reporting. Proven ability to work with international colleagues. Knowledge of CDMO landscape and manufacturing processes across one or multiple modalities (e.g., small molecule, biologics, sterile fill-finish, etc.). Thorough knowledge of GMPs (CFR title 21, parts 210-211 and Part 600), along with EU, MHRA and other global health authority regulations. Strong, proven supplier relationship management skills. Negotiation and contract management skills a plus Competencies Accountability for Results - Stay focused on key strategic objectives, be accountable for high standards of performance, and take an active role in leading change. Strategic Thinking & Problem Solving - Make decisions considering the long-term impact to customers, patients, employees, and the business. Patient & Customer Centricity - Maintain an ongoing focus on the needs of our customers and/or key stakeholders. Impactful Communication - Communicate with logic, clarity, and respect. Influence at all levels to achieve the best results for Otsuka. Respectful Collaboration - Seek and value others’ perspectives and strive for diverse partnerships to enhance work toward common goals. Empowered Development - Play an active role in professional development as a business imperative. Salary Minimum $169,222.00 - Maximum $253,000.00, plus incentive opportunity: The range shown represents a typical pay range or starting pay for individuals who are hired in the role to perform in the United States. Other elements may be used to determine actual pay such as the candidate’s job experience, specific skills, and comparison to internal incumbents currently in role. Typically, actual pay will be positioned within the established range, rather than at its minimum or maximum. This information is provided to applicants in accordance with states and local laws. Application Deadline This will be posted for a minimum of 5 business days. Company benefits Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, prescription drug coverage, company provided basic life, accidental death & dismemberment, short-term and long-term disability insurance, tuition reimbursement, student loan assistance, a generous 401(k) match, flexible time off, paid holidays, and paid leave programs as well as other company provided benefits. Come discover more about Otsuka and our benefit offerings; . Disclaimer: This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of the work being performed by the people assigned to this position. It is not intended to include every job duty and responsibility specific to the position. Otsuka reserves the right to amend and change responsibilities to meet business and organizational needs as necessary. Otsuka is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will be given consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, gender identity or gender expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, religion, national origin, veteran status, marital status, or any other legally protected characteristic. If you are a qualified individual with a disability or a disabled veteran, you may request a reasonable accommodation, if you are unable or limited in your ability to apply to this job opening as a result of your disability. You can request reasonable accommodations by contacting Accommodation Request (View email address on click.appcast.io) . #J-18808-Ljbffr