Process Technology & Innovation Lead DS Downstream

About the role

As the Process Technology & Innovation Lead – DS Downstream, you will define and drive the global technology and innovation strategy for Drug Substance Downstream manufacturing across Takeda's network. You will lead the development and deployment of advanced process technologies, automation, digital solutions and AI-enabled capabilities to strengthen manufacturing competitiveness, efficiency and resilience. Working closely with Pharmaceutical Sciences and global manufacturing teams, you will shape future manufacturing capabilities and deliver sustainable business value through innovation.

How you will contribute

• Define and execute the global process technology and innovation strategy for Drug Substance Downstream manufacturing, translating strategic priorities into a multi-year roadmap aligned with enterprise objectives, product pipeline requirements and future manufacturing needs.
• Lead the innovation portfolio across process technologies, analytical capabilities, automation, digital solutions and AI applications, establishing priorities, investment recommendations, resource requirements and value realization plans.
• Oversee the identification, evaluation, industrialization and scaling of transformative technologies, from technology scouting and proof-of-concept through pilot implementation, technology transfer, GMP deployment and lifecycle management.
• Establish and govern the Downstream technology blueprint and future manufacturing architecture, defining process platforms, technical standards, digital capabilities and scalable deployment strategies across the global manufacturing network.
• Drive measurable improvements in manufacturing robustness, productivity, cost efficiency, sustainability, quality performance and supply reliability through disciplined innovation deployment and performance monitoring.
• Chair the Process Technology and Innovation Governance Board for the assigned modality, overseeing roadmap approvals, portfolio prioritization, technology investments, harmonization initiatives and deployment decisions.
• Build and lead cross-functional innovation networks involving Manufacturing, Quality, Engineering, Digital, Supply Chain, Procurement and Pharmaceutical Sciences, while developing strategic partnerships with academia, suppliers, technology providers and industry organizations.
• Serve as a strategic advisor to Global MSAT and GSQ leadership on emerging technologies, manufacturing capability risks, investment priorities and long-term transformation opportunities, ensuring alignment with regulatory requirements and enterprise strategy.
• Foster a culture of innovation, experimentation and continuous improvement, developing organizational capabilities, promoting knowledge sharing and representing Takeda in external industry forums and strategic innovation partnerships.

What you bring to Takeda

• Advanced degree (Master's or PhD) in Chemical Engineering, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Biotechnology, Bioprocess Engineering or a related scientific or engineering discipline, or equivalent experience.
• Typically 15+ years of experience in pharmaceutical or biopharmaceutical manufacturing, MSAT, technical operations, process development, engineering or technology leadership, ideally including Drug Substance Downstream processing and global strategic initiatives.
• Demonstrated success in developing and implementing technology strategies, innovation portfolios and large-scale transformation programs within regulated pharmaceutical or biopharmaceutical manufacturing environments.
• Proven ability to evaluate, industrialize and scale innovative process technologies, automation, digital solutions and AI-enabled capabilities, delivering measurable operational and business improvements.
• Strong strategic and commercial acumen, with experience developing investment proposals, business cases, portfolio priorities and benefits realization frameworks.
• Extensive experience operating in complex global matrix organizations, influencing senior stakeholders and driving cross-functional collaboration across geographies and business functions.
• Strong people leadership and talent development capabilities, with experience building high-performing teams, developing technical expertise and fostering an innovation-driven culture.
• Excellent communication, stakeholder management and strategic problem-solving skills, with the ability to translate complex technical concepts into clear business recommendations for executive leadership.
• Recognized expertise in manufacturing technology and innovation, supported by engagement with industry networks, technical advisory groups, scientific forums or external partnerships, combined with fluency in English.