Associate Director, Manufacturing Operations

Job description

Job Description

General Summary:

The Associate Director, Manufacturing Operations for Cell Therapy leads a team responsible for the execution of multi-product manufacturing operations. This role is accountable for the compliant production of cell therapy products and for the oversight, development, and training of the manufacturing team to ensure the efficient and effective delivery of therapies to patients. The role also cultivates and leverages cross-functional partnerships to identify and implement creative solutions to organizational opportunities and challenges. The Associate Director, Manufacturing Operations reports directly to the Senior Director, Manufacturing Operations and is a key member of the operational and manufacturing execution leadership team. This position is based in Boston, MA and provides oversight of three shifts supporting 5-day-a-week production at the Boston manufacturing facility. This role will partner closely with colleagues across Vertex to ensure the seamless supply of commercial cell therapy products.

Key Duties and Responsibilities:

Deliver program goals by ensuring the efficient and compliant execution of all cell therapy manufacturing activities, including direct responsibility for the cryopreserved intermediate (CCI) manufacturing function

Build and maintain inventory to support patient needs

Lead cross-functional stakeholders to translate strategic decisions into manufacturing execution

Facilitate alignment and prioritization of manufacturing activities and objectives

Ensure products are manufactured and delivered in a safe, timely, and financially responsible manner in compliance with FDA, EMA, and other applicable global regulatory requirements

Monitor and manage resources, including FTE allocation, equipment utilization, and capacity planning

Analyze operating costs and drive continuous improvement in manufacturing efficiency

Support the implementation and optimization of digital systems to enhance manufacturing operations and data integrity

Drive digitization and automation as a functional owner by identifying opportunities for process optimization and implementation

Champion the adoption of digital tools and technologies within the manufacturing organization

Coach and develop direct reports and emerging leaders to build a strong leadership pipeline

Lead talent management and development activities, including succession planning, performance management, and career development

Attract, develop, and retain key talent across the manufacturing organization

Foster a culture of flexibility, agility, efficiency, compliance, and collaboration across teams and stakeholders

Promote a strong quality culture and ensure all activities align with GMP requirements

Maintain training excellence initiatives to ensure team competency and ongoing regulatory compliance

Present effectively to senior leadership and cross-functional teams across Vertex

Knowledge and Skills:

Expert knowledge of GMP manufacturing

Demonstrated ability to develop and track manufacturing metrics

Proficiency in budgeting, FTE forecasting, and production planning

Understanding of manufacturing execution systems (MES) and digital data management

Ability to identify and champion digitization opportunities

Strong coaching and mentoring capabilities

Proven ability to drive culture change and foster continuous improvement

Demonstrated success in managing quality events and maintaining compliance

Excellent presentation and communication skills, including the ability to engage senior leadership audiences

Education and Experience:

Bachelor's degree in a scientific, technical, or engineering discipline

Typically requires 12 years of experience, or the equivalent combination of education and experience

Previous experience managing day-to-day drug product manufacturing site operations

Experience selecting, building, and training a manufacturing team to operate at a high level in a cGMP-compliant environment

Experience supporting successful regulatory inspections, including FDA, EMA, and other health authority inspections

At Vertex, we embrace continuous learning and encourage employees to stay informed on advances in AI, technology, automation, and industry trends. We seek talent who bring an external perspective, demonstrate curiosity and sound judgment, and thoughtfully adopt new capabilities that improve decision-making, drive innovation, increase efficiency, and help deliver better outcomes for patients.

Pay Range:

$160,000 - $240,000

Disclosure Statement:

The range provided is based on what we believe is a reasonable estimate for the base salary pay range for this job at the time of posting. This role is eligible for an annual bonus and annual equity awards. Some roles may also be eligible for overtime pay, in accordance with federal and state requirements. Actual base salary pay will be based on a number of factors, including skills, competencies, experience, and other job-related factors permitted by law.

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Worksite address

boston, MA, 02298, US

Who can apply

Review the original listing for work authorization, qualifications and employer requirements.