Associate Director – Technology & Business Excellence Lead
Takeda
Summary
The Associate Director - Technology & Business Excellence Lead is responsible for providing technology and business leadership to subject matter experts in high-throughput analytics, process analytical technology (PAT), lab automation, robotics and digital transformation initiatives within the organization. You will serve as a matrix leader to identify, prioritize, and implement high-value technology targets to improve business KPIs in close collaboration with process development, analytical development, quality, compliance, digital, and external stakeholders. You also will define, own and execute KPI-centric roadmap with continuous improvement and value capture throughout the life cycle.
Job description
About the role
The Associate Director - Technology & Business Excellence Lead is responsible for providing technology and business leadership to subject matter experts in high-throughput analytics, process analytical technology (PAT), lab automation, robotics and digital transformation initiatives within the organization. You will serve as a matrix leader to identify, prioritize, and implement high-value technology targets to improve business KPIs in close collaboration with process development, analytical development, quality, compliance, digital, and external stakeholders. You also will define, own and execute KPI-centric roadmap with continuous improvement and value capture throughout the life cycle.
How you will contribute
- Lead the identification, prioritization, and implementation of high-throughput analytics, PAT, lab automation, and digital transformation capabilities to improve.
- The productivity of the organization. Speed-to-Clinic/Speed-to-Market timelines across small molecules and biologic programs using phase-appropriate approaches.
- Develop, execute and manage value capture matrices (productivity, speed, sustainability, quality, operational excellence), standards, and governance related to implementation of technology.
- Employ appropriate change management strategies to ensure seamless adoption of technologies in close partnership with end-users and subject matter experts.
- Support vendor selection and vendor management for technology platforms and help drive cross-site standardization.
- Lead cross-functional workstreams, resolve dependencies, and represent Analytical Development organization in governance and collaboration forums.
- Leverage appropriate risk management approaches in implementing technologies to mitigate and minimize risks and maximize value capture for our stakeholders.
What you bring to Takeda
- Typically 8 to 12 or more years of relevant industry or laboratory experience in analytical development, process development, or manufacturing functions (Clinical/Commercial) for biologics or small molecular programs with demonstrated delivery of new technologies such as PAT, high-throughput methods, lab automation and digital capabilities.
- Degree in a relevant scientific or engineering field such as Chemical Engineering, Business Analytics, or Pharmaceutical Sciences; bachelor’s, master’s, or doctorate accepted, with level and scope calibrated to degree and experience.
- Post-graduate education in Business Analytics or Business Administration (such as MBA) would be highly desirable.
- Proven experience in implementing and scaling technology solutions such as PAT, Lab Automation and/or Digital Transformation capabilities in GMP and QC facilities (Clinical and/or Commercial manufacturing for biologics or small molecules) is a must. Demonstrated technical expertise in developing PAT, Lab Automation and Robotic capabilities is a must.
- Proven experience in leading cross functional technology implementation initiatives, defining value-driven roadmaps with appropriate change and risk management strategies.
- Strong ability to partner with and influence senior stakeholders, translating scientific needs into scalable business solutions.
- Demonstrated knowledge and expertise in business analytics/matrices such as ROI and NPV assessment.
- Experience operating in regulated environments with automation, process analytical technology, and inspection readiness expectations.
- Demonstrated people and matrix leadership experience, including mentoring, coaching, prioritization across multiple projects.
- Fluent in English, fluent in Japanese is a plus.
Requirements
- Typically 8 to 12 or more years of relevant industry or laboratory experience in analytical development, process development, or manufacturing functions (Clinical/Commercial) for biologics or small molecular programs with demonstrated delivery of new technologies such as PAT, high-throughput methods, lab automation and digital capabilities.
- Degree in a relevant scientific or engineering field such as Chemical Engineering, Business Analytics, or Pharmaceutical Sciences; bachelor’s, master’s, or doctorate accepted, with level and scope calibrated to degree and experience.
- Post-graduate education in Business Analytics or Business Administration (such as MBA) would be highly desirable.
- Proven experience in implementing and scaling technology solutions such as PAT, Lab Automation and/or Digital Transformation capabilities in GMP and QC facilities (Clinical and/or Commercial manufacturing for biologics or small molecules) is a must.
- Demonstrated technical expertise in developing PAT, Lab Automation and Robotic capabilities is a must.
- Proven experience in leading cross functional technology implementation initiatives, defining value-driven roadmaps with appropriate change and risk management strategies.
- Strong ability to partner with and influence senior stakeholders, translating scientific needs into scalable business solutions.
- Demonstrated knowledge and expertise in business analytics/matrices such as ROI and NPV assessment.
- Experience operating in regulated environments with automation, process analytical technology, and inspection readiness expectations.
- Demonstrated people and matrix leadership experience, including mentoring, coaching, prioritization across multiple projects.
- Fluent in English, fluent in Japanese is a plus.
Benefits
- 401(k) Matching
- Medical, Dental & Vision
- Unlimited PTO
Company overview
Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited is a Japanese multinational pharmaceutical company founded in 1781 and incorporated in 1925. As one of the world's top 20 largest pharmaceutical companies by revenue and the third largest in Asia, Takeda specializes in developing and commercializing innovative medicines across several therapeutic areas including oncology, rare diseases, neuroscience, gastroenterology, plasma-derived therapies, and vaccines. With approximately 49,095 employees globally, the company operates research and development centers, manufacturing facilities, and commercial operations across 39 U.S. states and numerous countries worldwide. Takeda maintains dual headquarters in Tokyo and Osaka, Japan, with significant operations in Cambridge, Massachusetts, where it serves as the largest life sciences employer in the state. The company's patient-focused approach is guided by its Takeda-ism values of Integrity, Fairness, Honesty, and Perseverance, emphasizing a commitment to delivering life-transforming treatments while advancing sustainable healthcare solutions. Takeda's extensive portfolio includes both innovative biologics and small molecule drugs, supported by strategic acquisitions and partnerships that have expanded its capabilities in areas such as immuno-oncology and rare disease treatments.