Director Process & Capabilities Lead – Large Molecule Automation and Digital Research

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Job Description

Are you looking for a patient-focused, innovation-driven company that will inspire you and empower you to shine? Join us as a Director Process & Capabilities Lead – Large Molecule Automation and Digital Research in our Cambridge office.

At Takeda, we are transforming the pharmaceutical industry through our R&D-driven market leadership and being a values-led company. To do this, we empower our people to realize their potential through life-changing work. Certified as a Global Top Employer, we offer stimulating careers, encourage innovation, and strive for excellence in everything we do. We foster an inclusive, collaborative workplace, in which our global teams are united by an unwavering commitment to deliver Better Health and a Brighter Future to people around the world.

Here, you will be a vital contributor to our inspiring, bold mission.

Takeda is transforming the future of biologics research. We are seeking a visionary and results-driven leader to serve as Process & Capabilities Lead – Large Molecule Automation and Digital Research. This role is a critical component of our Digital Research Transformation program and is responsible for redefining, automating, and digitalizing discovery workflows in our large molecule (biologics) research. The successful candidate will harness innovation and utilize their experience and expertise to reimagine workflows, integrate automation and AI/ML solutions, and embed best practices across our biologics discovery platforms.

Key Responsibilities

• Strategic Transformation Leadership:
  • Spearhead the end-to-end redesign of large molecule discovery processes in a “closed loop”, AI/digitally enabled and automated future-state model
  • Drive process modernization initiatives that include the integration of automation, high-throughput screening techniques, generative Biology, large-scale data analysis, and AI-enabled prediction models.
• Collaboration & Cross-Functional Partnership:
  • Partner closely with scientific and computational teams, IT, Digital, external partners, and Automation experts to ensure seamless execution and integration of new technologies and processes.
  • Act as the trusted change leader and primary point of contact for lab teams, fostering a culture geared toward innovation and continuous improvement.
• Operational Excellence & Execution:
  • Redesign end-to-end biologics discovery workflows, focusing on automation and AI-enablement opportunities.
  • Develop, implement, and track robust KPIs related to workflow efficiency, data accessibility, process cycle improvements, and user adoption.
• Innovation & Capability Building:
  • Collaborate with both dry lab and platform teams to ensure integrated, scalable solutions that enhance the digital capability across the discovery spectrum.
  • Advocate for digital best practices and operational excellence across the organization in alignment with Takeda’s transformation agenda.

Required Qualifications

• Minimum 10 years’ experience in biopharma drug discovery, with deep expertise in large molecule discovery (including areas like protein engineering and antibody discovery).
• Proven leadership and experience in scientific workflow design and process optimization, particularly within AI/digital and lab automation initiatives.
• Track record in driving large-scale transformations and visionary changes.
• Comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities in large molecule discovery, bolstered by a strong change management acumen.
• Demonstrated success in leading cross-functional teams including science, digital, IT, and operational stakeholders in a fast-paced, innovative environment.
• Advanced proficiency with lab digital tools (e.g., ELNs, LIMS) and data systems, along with a strong grasp on AI/ML and automation trends.
• Excellent problem-solving, communication, and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Advanced degree (Ph.D. or equivalent) in Life Sciences, Bioengineering, or a related discipline preferred.

Why Takeda?

At Takeda, you will lead a transformative initiative that redefines how we discover and develop next-generation biologics. This role offers the opportunity to:

• Influence and shape groundbreaking digital research strategies.
• Drive innovation in scientifically and operationally complex environments.
• Collaborate with diverse experts and thought leaders at the forefront of biological discovery.
• Be a key player in a high-impact transformation with executive sponsorship and strategic visibility.

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

This position is currently classified as “hybrid” in accordance with Takeda’s Hybrid and Remote Work policy. 

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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.

For Location:

Boston, MA

U.S. Base Salary Range:

$174,500.00 - $274,230.00

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.

Locations

Boston, MA

Worker Type

Employee

Worker Sub-Type

Regular

Time Type

Full time

Job Exempt

Yes

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