Director, Supplier Development

Cell Therapy is a key area of investment for AstraZeneca as we work toward our bold ambition to become an $80B organization. This role focuses on strategically improving supplier performance and capabilities to ensure consistent quality, delivery, and cost efficiency across the supply chain.

Responsibilities

• Design and implement a risk model to reduce potential supply disruptions ahead of launch and demand forecast for the Cell Therapy Portfolio.
• Strategically evaluate N-2 Supply Chain suppliers to incorporate into the portfolio risk profile.
• Conduct thorough evaluations of existing suppliers, assessing performance against key metrics such as quality, delivery time, cost, sustainability, and compliance with company standards.
• Develop customized improvement plans for suppliers, including specific goals, timelines, and action steps to address quality issues, cost reduction, and process optimization.
• Monitor supplier performance regularly, identify trends and risks, and take corrective actions to maintain desired performance levels.
• Collaborate with Technical, Quality, and Regulatory teams to identify priority segments where supplier development is critical for continuous supply and improved COGS.
• Lead continuous improvement initiatives within the supplier base, such as Lean methodologies, Six Sigma practices, or other quality improvement programs.
• Identify and mitigate risks associated with the supplier base, including supply chain disruptions, geopolitical instability, and quality issues.
• Maintain effective communication with internal stakeholders, including Senior Leadership, to ensure alignment on supplier development strategies.
• Support leadership and change management within a growing supply chain organization.
• Build and lead a high-performing supplier development team, providing guidance, mentorship, and professional development opportunities.
• Perform other responsibilities as needed.

Requirements

• A minimum of 7 years of experience with a BA/BS, 5 years with an MA/MS, or 3 years with a PhD.
• Degree in Science, Business, Supply Chain Management, Engineering, or a related field; advanced degree highly desirable.
• Minimum of 5 years of combined experience in strategic sourcing, procurement, supply chain management, and process development, preferably in the pharmaceutical or biotechnology industry.
• Specific experience in cell therapy highly desirable.
• Experience in CMC, process development, and/or manufacturing required.

Skills

• Strong understanding of supply chain management principles and best practices.
• Proven experience in supplier development, performance management, CMC, and quality control.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills to identify root causes of supplier issues.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate effectively with suppliers and internal stakeholders.
• Project management skills to develop and execute supplier improvement plans.
• Knowledge of relevant quality standards and regulations.
• Proficiency in data analysis and reporting to track supplier performance.

Pay

The annual base pay for this position ranges from $145,000 to $218,000. Eligibility for various incentives includes short-term incentive bonuses, equity-based awards for salaried roles, and commissions for sales roles.

Benefits

• Qualified retirement programs.
• Paid time off (vacation, holiday, and leaves).
• Health, dental, and vision coverage in accordance with applicable plans.

Location: Gaithersburg, MD, or Santa Monica, CA