Astrazeneca is seeking a Director, Digital Business Partner & AI Strategy Lead to drive the digital transformation of the Cell Therapy Development & Operations (CTDO) organization. You will champion the adoption of advanced digital platforms, intelligent automation, and enterprise systems to enable scalable, data-driven operations across the entire cell therapy value chain.
What You'll Do
- Lead a talented team and partner with global IT, digital, and data teams to define and execute a cohesive digital transformation roadmap aligned with business and technology strategies.
- Lead the identification and operationalization of AI and digital applications for predictive analytics, intelligent planning, supply chain optimization, manufacturing insights, and personalized therapy orchestration.
- Establish a future-ready vision for digitally enabled business processes leveraging AI, cloud platforms, and advanced data architectures.
- Serve as the IT partner lead for strategic enterprise platforms including SAP, MES, LIMS, Advanced Planning Systems, and cell orchestration systems, ensuring seamless interoperability and AI-readiness.
- Collaborate with business leads to define requirements and deliver digital solutions across the cell therapy value chain including Strategy, Planning, Scheduling, Slot Management, Procurement, Manufacturing, and Vein-to-Vein Logistics.
- Collaborate with IT to implement modern data infrastructure, ensuring robust data privacy, integrity, and accessibility across digital platforms and AI models.
- Drive cross-functional digital transformation initiatives, managing scope, budgets, schedules, and outcomes while delivering measurable business value.
- Redesign digital touchpoints to enhance the experience for patients, physicians, and commercial partners through intelligent orchestration platforms and automation.
What We're Looking For
- 14+ years of professional experience with a BS/BA (or 12+ with MS/MA/MBA) in Engineering, Computer Science, Information Systems, Supply Chain, or a related technical field.
- Proven practical experience designing and architecting enterprise platforms, and leading technical teams to implement systems such as MES, LIMS, SAP, and Salesforce-based workflow platforms.
- Solid understanding of modern AI technologies (e.g., NLP, computer vision, predictive analytics) and practical application of these technologies in biopharma or manufacturing environments.
- Strong hands-on understanding of cell therapy operations, including manufacturing, supply chain, and quality systems within regulated environments.
- Track record of leading high-caliber technical teams, shaping IT strategy, and delivering enterprise systems and AI-driven capabilities within life sciences or other highly regulated industries.
- Strategic and execution-focused leader who can translate operational needs into scalable technical solutions while collaborating effectively across engineering, manufacturing, quality, and business teams.
Nice to Have
- Experience in the pharmaceutical industry is a plus.
- Hands-on experience applying Generative AI and Agentic AI to accelerate the product and software lifecycle (e.g., requirements generation, user story development, automated test creation, anomaly detection, and release risk insights) is highly desirable.
Technical Stack
- SAP, MES, LIMS, Advanced Planning Systems
- Salesforce-based workflow platforms
- AI/ML, NLP, Computer Vision, Predictive Analytics
- Generative AI, Agentic AI
- Cloud Platforms
Team & Environment
You will report to the Executive Director, Head of Operation Cell Therapy IT. The team is transforming cell therapy operations through AI and digital innovation, advancing life-changing treatments for patients around the world.
Benefits & Compensation
- Compensation: $165K to $245K annual base pay + equity-based awards for salaried roles.
- Health, dental, and vision coverage.
- Qualified retirement programs.
- Paid time off (vacation, holiday, and leaves).
- Eligibility for various incentives.
- Short-term incentive bonuses.
Work Mode
This is an onsite position based in Gaithersburg, MD.
Our mission is to build an inclusive environment where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants and employees.
