Director, External Manufacturing Technology

Job Description

General Summary:

Vertex is a global biotechnology company that invests in scientific innovation. The Digital, Technology and Engineering (DTE) Research, Pre-Clinical, Manufacturing and Supply (RPMS) group's mission is to improve the lives of patients through digital, data, and technology innovation.

Vertex is in a transformational period where we are accelerating our capabilities, technology and data to augment our scientific mission and enable Vertex to grow in scale; ensuring we remain on the forefront of science, medicine and technology.

We are seeking a dynamic and experienced Director, External Manufacturing Solutions to join our team and drive our digital transformation initiatives.

The Director, External Manufacturing Solutions is a pivotal role within the CMC (Chemistry, Manufacturing, and Controls) function of the DTE RPMS group. This role will oversee the development, implementation, and optimization of data and technology solutions to support global external manufacturing operations and the real-time data flow to and from Vertex, ensuring alignment with Vertex's strategic goals and compliance with industry standards. This position requires a strategic leader who can manage a complex data and technology environment spanning multiple internal and external partners and drive continuous improvement in manufacturing processes through innovative technological solutions.

Key Duties and Responsibilities:

Vision and Strategy

• Develop and execute the data and technology strategy for external manufacturing, ensuring alignment with business objectives to deliver a digital transformation in the pace and velocity of real-time insight creation.
• Identify and evaluate data and technology solutions to be deployed at Vertex and between Vertex and its external manufacturing partners, ensuring they meet Vertex's quality, security, regulatory and compliance standards.
• Support digital transformation initiatives to enhance data-driven decision-making across the organization, ensuring Vertex remains at the forefront of technological advancements.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure the external manufacturing data and technology strategy supports broader organizational objectives and regulatory requirements.

• Oversee the implementation and management of data and technology solutions that integrate insights across the Vertex external manufacturing network from platforms and tools, including Manufacturing Execution Systems, Electronic Batch Records, Process Analytical Technology and Laboratory Information Management Systems, to enhance external manufacturing operations, ensuring products are manufactured on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards.
• Drive digital transformation initiatives such as predictive scheduling and control, digital AI/ML-driven process optimization and automation, and predictive analytics for improved external manufacturing and quality control.
• Ensure data and technology solutions are developed on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards.
• Ensure relevant adoption of cloud-based solutions, IoT-enabled manufacturing, and automation technologies improve efficiency, scalability, and cost-effectiveness.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements by implementing secure, validated digital systems.
• Evaluate and implement emerging technologies to enhance Vertex decision-making prior to, during and after external manufacturing.
• Develop and embed digitally enabled performance metrics for external manufacturing partners, driving continuous improvement in efficiency, quality, and cost-effectiveness.

• Lead and develop a high-performing, diverse team of professionals, fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and accountability.
• Create a culture of inclusion, diversity, and equity where everyone can do their best work and feels valued.
• Communicate effectively with senior leadership and stakeholders to align on strategic priorities, project progress, and the impact of data initiatives.
• Represent RPMS in cross-functional meetings and initiatives, advocating for data-driven approaches and ensuring alignment with broader organizational goals.

Knowledge and Skills:

• Deep understanding and experience of designing and implementing data and technology solutions in clinical and commercial manufacturing environments and across a manufacturing network.
• Proficiency in data management and automation principles and methodologies.
• Proficiency in rapidly adopting and implementing emerging technology (e.g. AI/ML, agentic).
• Proficiency in manufacturing software and tools and strong understanding of manufacturing processes and technology.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to use data to inform decisions.
• Strong leadership and team management skills, with the ability to inspire and motivate a diverse team.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex technical concepts to a variety of audiences.
• Proven track record of leading and managing teams in a complex, fast-paced environment.

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field; advanced degree (Master's or Ph.D.) preferred.
• Typically requires 10 years of experience in manufacturing or supply chain management, within the biotechnology or pharmaceutical industry.
• Proven track record of implementing and optimizing digital manufacturing control systems and data flows across multiple companies.
• Extensive experience with regulatory requirements and industry standards, including GMP.
• Experience with the manufacturing processes of small molecule, cell therapy, gene therapy and other modalities.
• Willingness to travel as needed (up to 30%) to support business objectives.
• Experience with enabling advanced technologies, such as AI and machine learning, and delivery of data engineering strategies is highly desirable.
• Advanced certifications in product, agile, software engineering, cloud technologies, or leadership preferred.

Pay Range:

Disclosure Statement:

Flex Designation:

Flex Eligibility Status:

In this Hybrid-Eligible role, you can choose to be designated as:
1. Hybrid: work remotely up to two days per week; or select
2. On-Site: work five days per week on-site with ad hoc flexibility.

Note: The Flex status for this position is subject to Vertex's Policy on Flex @ Vertex Program and may be changed at any time.

Company Information

Vertex is a global biotechnology company that invests in scientific innovation.

Vertex is committed to equal employment opportunity and non-discrimination for all employees and qualified applicants without regard to a person's race, color, sex, gender identity or expression, age, religion, national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, marital status, or any characteristic protected under applicable law. Vertex is an E-Verify Employer in the United States. Vertex will make reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with known disabilities, in accordance with applicable law.

Any applicant requiring an accommodation in connection with the hiring process and/or to perform the essential functions of the position for which the applicant has applied should make a request to the recruiter or hiring manager, or contact Talent Acquisition at ApplicationAssistance@vrtx.com