Process Technology & Innovation Lead Synthetic Molecules

About the role

As a global leader within Manufacturing Science and Technology (MSAT), you will define and drive the process technology and innovation strategy for an assigned manufacturing modality across Takeda's global network. You will shape future manufacturing capabilities, accelerate the adoption of innovative technologies and oversee strategic investments that strengthen manufacturing competitiveness and operational excellence. Working closely with Pharmaceutical Sciences and global manufacturing functions, you will ensure the successful industrialization and deployment of advanced process technologies, automation, digital solutions and AI-enabled capabilities. Your leadership will be instrumental in delivering sustainable business value, enhancing manufacturing resilience and positioning Takeda at the forefront of pharmaceutical manufacturing innovation.

How you will contribute

• Define and execute the global process technology and innovation strategy for the assigned modality, translating business 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 modality 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, Process Engineering, Automation, Data Science 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, including responsibility for global strategic initiatives.
• Demonstrated success in developing and implementing technology strategies, innovation portfolios and large-scale transformation programs within regulated pharmaceutical 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.