Executive Medical Director, Clinical Development- Immunology

About the role

Vertex is seeking a physician-scientist with a comprehensive understanding of molecular pathways as drivers of inflammatory and autoimmune diseases across a range of organs—and of the investigative treatment landscape targeting those pathways—to help shape Vertex's immunology portfolio beyond existing programs. Povetacicept, Vertex’s lead immunology asset, is a differentiated TACI-Fc fusion protein that dually inhibits BAFF and APRIL, now advancing into a broad portfolio of antibody-mediated autoimmune indications with compelling early signals.

As Executive Medical Director, Clinical Development, you will serve as Vertex's primary physician voice on the povetacicept franchise in immunology while contributing your scientific perspective to how Vertex thinks about immunology more broadly, including which programs to advance, which mechanisms to pursue, and how to position Vertex as a credible, durable force in a fast-moving field. This role operates at the intersection of Research, Regulatory, Medical Affairs, Global Patient Safety, Clinical Operations, Commercial, Pharmaceutical Development, and Business Development.

Responsibilities

• Provide comprehensive understanding of the drug development process from Phase 1 to Phase 4.
• Serve as a recognized and respected authority in the immunology or rheumatology field.
• Oversee clinical development programs, including design and implementation, by providing project team leadership.
• Participate in the planning and execution of global clinical development activities, including setting up data monitoring committees, steering committees, and investigator meetings.
• Represent the clinical development team at cross-functional meetings.
• Develop study protocols and review Investigator Brochures.
• Review and evaluate study subject exemptions.
• Oversee medical monitoring of clinical studies and assist medical monitors in evaluating adverse events and safety profiles.
• Participate in data reviews and the development of briefing books.
• Prepare the team for regulatory interactions and interface with international regulatory authorities to support development objectives.
• Ensure compliance with Vertex Standard Operating Procedures, International Conference on Harmonization, Good Clinical Practice, and other national and international regulatory requirements.
• Manage financial accountabilities and human resource responsibilities for assigned staff, if applicable.

Requirements

• 15 years of pharmaceutical industry experience, including designing and overseeing clinical trials and/or clinical development programs, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• 7 years of people management experience.
• Immunology and/or rheumatology expertise.
• Board certification/eligibility in immunology or rheumatology.

Skills

• Experience interacting with global regulatory agencies including EMA, Health Canada, TGA, PMDA, and CDE.
• Working knowledge of biostatistics, data management, clinical operations, and clinical pharmacology.
• Experience in filing and defending US INDs and/or NDAs and/or their international equivalents.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced and ambiguous environment, providing hands-on assistance to junior staff as needed.
• Ability to function effectively in a team-based matrix environment and work independently to resolve challenges and conflicts.
• Excellent computer skills, including familiarity with AI-based large language models to solve problems.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Strong leadership skills.

Pay

The base salary pay range for this role is $320,000 - $480,000. 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 skills, competencies, experience, and other job-related factors permitted by law.

Benefits

• Inclusive market-leading medical, dental, and vision benefits.
• Generous paid time off, including a week-long company shutdown in the summer and winter.
• Educational assistance programs, including student loan repayment.
• Generous commuting subsidy.
• Matching charitable donations.
• 401(k) retirement plan and additional financial benefits.

Schedule

This is a Hybrid-Eligible role, allowing you to choose between:

• Hybrid: Work remotely up to two days per week.
• 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.