Drug Discovery Lead (Senior Director) – GI2 Drug Discovery Unit

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Job Description

Objective / Purpose:

The Gastrointestinal and Inflammation Drug Discovery Unit (GI2 DDU) is seeking an experienced leader and drug hunter to serve as a Senior Director and program leader. This individual will have broad drug discovery expertise, with a proven track record of leading discovery stage programs from project inception to candidate selection and IND. It is expected that the Drug Discovery Lead will lead high priority, top tier GI programs, working closely with our global functional leads to deliver high quality candidate molecules, in addition to mentoring and managing a group of research project leaders with the primary purpose of advancing first and best-in-class assets into the clinic. The candidate will be a recognized leader, have extensive experience of early-stage drug discovery, ideally across modalities, and be accountable for influencing and driving the strategic advancement of our Research portfolio.

Accountabilities:                                                                                                     

• Engage, inspire and lead multidisciplinary project teams to the delivery of high-quality candidate molecules (SMOL or biologics), from project start to IND.
• Develop, define and execute on project strategy to drive program inflections and navigate critical G/NG decision points.
• Expertly communicate project status to senior leadership and key stakeholders at all levels.
• Ensure efficient and optimized use of resources, including management of CRO’s and external partners.
• Make strategic decisions in consultation with key senior leaders to advance research projects from target selection to clinical entry
• Work effectively with partners in the TAU (Therapeutic Area Unit) to develop early clinical development plans and ensure smooth transition of novel molecules through IND enabling activities to clinical entry.
• Identify and apply state of the art technology and emerging AI/ML driven methodology, where appropriate, to accelerate programs.
• Serve as a key scientific leader and broadly influence strategic decision both in the DDU and across functions.
• Engage partners in Business Development as a SME to assess external innovation and support diligence efforts
• Mentor and direct a high performing team with a focus on program delivery and developing talented project leaders.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in drug discovery, emerging technologies, and industry trends, and apply this knowledge to enhance drug discovery strategies.
• Maintain accountability for the development of organizational culture and capabilities: fostering a culture of innovation and scientific excellence within the DDU, promoting collaboration, knowledge sharing, and continuous learning.​

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Education & Competencies (Technical and Behavioral):

• PhD with 15+ years’ industry experience or equivalent (MS with 21+ years’ experience, or BS with 23+ years’ experience).
• Proven track record of leading multidisciplinary project teams to candidate selection and IND.
• Experience of working with multiple modalities ideally including small molecules and/or biologics.
• Highly effective leadership, people management, communication skills, and a team builder management style are essential.
• Cross-cultural understanding to utilize and develop diverse talent, and a demonstrated ability to manage matrix teams to maximize organizational productivity.
• Experience in all stages of drug discovery and development.
• Experience in making recommendations to senior leadership and managing stakeholders across an organization.
• Keen understanding of modern drug discovery methods and the external innovation landscape, including evolving AI/ML approaches.
• Experience working with external collaborators and CRO’s.
• Takeda's high-engagement and ONE Research DEI culture is an important factor in our success; we seek team members who will contribute to and further strengthen that culture in all ways of working.

This position is currently classified as Hybrid by Takeda’s Hybrid and Remote Work policy.

Takeda Compensation and Benefits Summary

We understand compensation is an important factor as you consider the next step in your career. We are committed to equitable pay for all employees, and we strive to be more transparent with our pay practices. 

Takeda Compensation and Benefits Summary

We understand compensation is an important factor as you consider the next step in your career. We are committed to equitable pay for all employees, and we strive to be more transparent with our pay practices. 

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U.S. Base Salary Range:

EEO Statement

Takeda is proud in its commitment to creating a diverse workforce and providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, parental status, national origin, age, disability, citizenship status, genetic information or characteristics, marital status, status as a Vietnam era veteran, special disabled veteran, or other protected veteran in accordance with applicable federal, state and local laws, and any other characteristic protected by law.

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Job Exempt