Head, CDO

Summary

Responsible for leading a centralized group of medicinal chemists within Discovery Chemistry Platforms which integrates the following three components: (1) chemotype identification; (2) library synthesis; and (3) fragment-based drug design with the goal of providing a richer diversity of chemotypes to early phase and full phase programs. Takes accountability for the delivery of new chemotypes and libraries to programs across Discovery with the goal of positively impacting program progression within the synthetics portfolio. Within Discovery Chemistry, collaborates with leaders in Oncology Chemistry, Innovative Medicines Chemistry and Discovery Chemistry Platforms to ensure that effective and timely chemotype identification is carried out for all pre-GT1 programs. Collaborates with DDS and i-SATT to fully leverage the capabilities of these groups in the resynthesis of hits and library preparation and propagation. The individual will report to the Head of Discovery Chemistry Platforms.

Responsibilities

Takes on activities associated with Director-level management. Establishes strong partnerships and effectively collaborates with key stakeholders in LDO, MDT, SATT Analytical, BBRC, and Chemistry IT to ensure that key stakeholders cooperate in the chemotype identification paradigm and in the implementation of library synthesis. Capable of allocating resources within CDO in alignment with Discovery program prioritization. Anticipates needs, assesses and manages risks and organizational dynamics and fully understands their implications. Communicates effectively in oral and written presentations to a variety of audiences, both internally (e.g. governance forums, team meetings) and externally (e.g. manuscripts, and scientific meetings). Creates, innovates, and champions new approaches while demonstrating flexibility, open mindedness, and adaptability to a rapidly changing environment. Provides scientific and managerial direction, leadership, mentorship and assistance to others in an effective manner. Establishes team roles and responsibilities, provides direction, fosters effective team skills, and assures high quality results are produced in a timely fashion. Consistently develops people, is attentive to succession planning needs, and effectively resolves difficult situations.

Qualifications

Qualified candidates must have a Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry, with at least 10+ years of industrial experience and at least 5 years of experience directly supervising Ph.D. level scientists. Previous experience leading medicinal chemistry teams that have delivered on objectives is also required. Leadership experience and a passion for the early discovery chemistry space is strongly preferred.

The candidate must possess excellent problem solving and strategic thinking skills, as well as strong oral and written communication skills. A thorough understanding of all aspects of modern medicinal chemistry is essential, including: (1) the synthesis, purification, and characterization of complex organic molecules; (2) the appropriate use of high-throughput synthesis methodologies, computational chemistry, fragment-based drug design, and other enabling technologies; (3) a deep understanding of and close attention to biological assays with a particular emphasis on establishing an effective compound progression scheme that allows early chemotype prioritization. Advanced data handling and visualization skills are desired (although these can be learned in-role). The candidate must have demonstrated strong leadership skills in the context of both traditional line management and project-based matrix management. Finally, the candidate must be action-oriented and demonstrate accountability for results.