Process Technology & Innovation Lead DP

About the role

As a global leader in Process Technology & Innovation within Manufacturing Science and Technology (MSAT), you will define and drive the technology and innovation strategy for your assigned manufacturing modality across Takeda's global network. You will shape the future of pharmaceutical manufacturing by advancing innovative process technologies, digital capabilities, automation and AI-enabled solutions to strengthen competitiveness, operational excellence and supply reliability. You will lead a global innovation portfolio, translating strategic priorities into a multi-year roadmap that delivers measurable business value. Working closely with Pharmaceutical Sciences, Manufacturing, Quality, Engineering and Digital teams, you will accelerate the industrialization and deployment of transformative technologies across Takeda's manufacturing network. As a strategic advisor to senior leadership, you will establish technology standards, guide investment decisions, develop external partnerships and foster a culture of innovation, collaboration and continuous improvement.

How you will contribute

• Define and lead the global technology and innovation strategy for the assigned manufacturing modality, establishing a multi-year roadmap aligned with Takeda's business objectives, product pipeline and future manufacturing needs.
• Own and govern the innovation portfolio, prioritizing investments and initiatives across process technologies, analytical capabilities, automation, digital solutions and AI-enabled manufacturing to maximize business value.
• Drive the industrialization and deployment of innovative technologies, from technology scouting and proof-of-concept through pilot implementation, technology transfer, GMP deployment and lifecycle management.
• Establish the modality technology blueprint and future manufacturing architecture, defining standards, capabilities and best practices to ensure harmonization, scalability and operational excellence across the global network.
• Deliver measurable improvements in manufacturing performance, including process robustness, productivity, cost efficiency, sustainability, quality, compliance and supply reliability.
• Partner with R&D and Pharmaceutical Sciences to anticipate future manufacturing requirements, support pipeline evolution and ensure readiness for new product launches, emerging technologies and lifecycle management.
• Lead cross-functional innovation teams and governance forums, bringing together Manufacturing, Quality, Engineering, Digital, Supply Chain and other key stakeholders to accelerate technology adoption and transformation.
• Develop strategic external partnerships with academia, technology providers, suppliers, start-ups and industry organizations to identify emerging opportunities and strengthen Takeda's innovation capabilities.
• Act as a trusted advisor to Global MSAT and senior leadership, guiding technology investments, monitoring innovation performance, developing organizational capabilities and representing Takeda in external industry forums.

What you bring to Takeda

• Master's degree or PhD in Chemical Engineering, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Biotechnology, Process Engineering, Automation, Data Science or a related scientific or engineering discipline, or equivalent relevant experience.
• Typically 15+ years of experience in pharmaceutical or biopharmaceutical manufacturing, MSAT, technical operations, process development, engineering or technology leadership, including global strategic initiatives.
• Proven track record of leading technology innovation and manufacturing transformation programs, delivering measurable improvements in productivity, cost, yield, process robustness, compliance or digital adoption.
• Strong understanding of pharmaceutical manufacturing technologies, GMP requirements, technology transfer, process industrialization and the challenges of implementing innovative solutions in regulated environments.
• Demonstrated ability to develop technology roadmaps, manage complex innovation portfolios, build compelling investment cases and translate strategic initiatives into measurable business outcomes.
• Solid knowledge of emerging manufacturing technologies, automation, digital transformation, advanced analytics and AI-enabled solutions, with experience evaluating and scaling innovative capabilities.
• Strong strategic leadership, business acumen and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to influence senior executives and drive alignment across global, matrixed and multicultural organizations.
• Proven ability to build and lead cross-functional teams, develop talent, foster innovation and establish effective partnerships with internal and external stakeholders.
• Excellent communication and influencing skills, fluency in English, and the ability to represent the organization credibly in technical, scientific and industry forums.