Associate Director, Program Management

Sumitomo Pharma Co., Ltd., is a global pharmaceutical company based in Japan with operations in the U.S. (Sumitomo Pharma America, Inc.), focused on addressing patient needs in oncology, urology, women's health, rare diseases, cell & gene therapies and CNS. With several marketed products and a diverse pipeline of early- to late-stage investigational assets, we aim to accelerate discovery, research, and development to bring novel therapies to patients sooner. For more information on SMPA, visit our website https://www.us.sumitomo-pharma.com or follow us on LinkedIn.

We are seeking a strategic, results-driven leader for the role of Associate Director, Program Management. In this position, you will shape and execute program strategies in oncology, taking a role in driving cross-functional initiatives and guiding teams through complex development projects. You will partner with Global Program Leads (GPL) and Global Development Teams (GDT) to ensure strategic alignment, operational excellence, and the successful delivery of program objectives. You will support project timelines, monitor progress, and facilitate effective communication across teams, while proactively identifying and resolving challenges. The ideal candidate will have experience in early clinical stage drug development, a track record of cross-functional leadership, and the ability to deliver results in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.

Job Duties and Responsibilities

Support the Global Program Leads in the following:

• Supports cross-functional program teams to develop strategic plans for compounds integrating development, commercial, technical, and financial considerations.
• Supports program team decision-making and management of early-stage compounds to better understand science and establish clinical development plans.
• Apply drug development knowledge and experience to support the efficient and rigorous management of product candidates, as reflected in the design and conduct of studies.
• Support effective and impactful communication related to program strategy to ensure active management of issues, risks, decisions, and opportunities related to all internal and external activities.
• Ensure collaboration across the Program Team for maximum team effectiveness.
• Drive cross-functional initiatives and guide teams through complex projects. Proactively identify and resolve challenges to support successful program execution
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Key Core Competencies

• Experience supporting early clinical stage drug development programs.
• Analytical and creative problem-solving skills to help teams address challenges.
• Ability to recognize priorities, assist in aligning plans, and encourage collaboration across functions.
• Effective relationship building and communication skills to work well with colleagues at all levels.
• General understanding of the drug development process and life cycle management, with exposure to areas such as commercial, medical affairs, clinical research, finance, regulatory, and compliance.
• Solid program management skills and organizational awareness to help connect information and support team effectiveness.
• Skills in collaboration, team building, communication, planning, and problem-solving.

Education and Experience

• Minimum 7 years (w/o Masters) or 6 years (with Master’s) of relevant experience in biotech or pharmaceutical industry
• A minimum of 5 years’ R&D experience leading cross-functional teams.
• Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree preferred.
• Experience in early clinical stage drug development in oncology preferred.

The base salary range for this role is $159,600 to $199,500.    Base salary is part of our total rewards package which also includes the opportunity for merit-based salary increases, short incentive plan participation, eligibility for our 401(k) plan, medical, dental, vision, life and disability insurances and leaves provided in line with your work state.  Our robust time-off policy includes flexible paid time off, 11 paid holidays plus additional time off for a shut-down period during the last week of December, 80 hours of paid sick time upon hire and each year thereafter.  Total compensation, including base salary to be offered, will depend on elements unique to each candidate, including candidate experience, skills, education and other factors permitted by law.

Disclaimer: The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. All personnel may be required to perform duties outside of their normal responsibilities from time to time, as needed.

Confidential Data: All information (written, verbal, electronic, etc.) that an employee encounters is considered confidential.

Compliance: Achieve and maintain Compliance with all applicable regulatory, legal and operational rules and procedures, by ensuring that all plans and activities for and on behalf of Sumitomo Pharma America (SMPA) and affiliates are carried out with the "best" industry practices and the highest ethical standards.

It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Mental/Physical Requirements: Fast paced environment handling multiple demands. Must be able to exercise appropriate judgment as necessary. Requires a high level of initiative and independence. Excellent written and oral communication skills required. Requires ability to use a personal computer for extended periods of time.

Sumitomo Pharma America (SMPA) is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race; color; creed; religion; national origin; age; ancestry; nationality; marital, domestic partnership or civil union status; sex, gender; affectional or sexual orientation; disability; veteran or military status or liability for military status; domestic violence victim status; atypical cellular or blood trait; genetic information (including the refusal to submit to genetic testing) or any other characteristic protected by law.