ExploR&D Program Lead (EPL)

About the role

Lilly’s ExploR&D Program Lead (EPL) is accountable for external collaboration projects from discovery through clinical proof‑of‑concept. The role defines strategy, forecasts resources, and drives large‑scale, cross‑functional programs to deliver high‑quality results on time and on budget.

Key responsibilities

• Lead multiple collaboration teams of internal experts and external biotech partners, creating a high‑performing, inclusive culture.
• Define program scope, develop work plans, negotiate contracts, and execute projects across discovery, preclinical and clinical stages.
• Forecast resource needs, manage large budgets, and ensure delivery against aggressive timelines.
• Serve as primary liaison with external partners, regulators, vendors and internal stakeholders, aligning goals and resolving barriers.

Required profile

• 5+ years (preferred 10+) experience in pharmaceutical preclinical‑translational or clinical‑stage drug development across modalities such as cell & gene therapies, antibodies, peptides, oligonucleotides, vaccines or small molecules.
• Advanced degree (PhD, PharmD, MS or MBA with scientific background) is preferred.
• Demonstrated scientific fluency across the drug discovery to clinic continuum and ability to influence strategy.

Required skills

• Project management expertise, including work‑plan development, resource forecasting and budget management.
• Ability to synthesize scientific data from literature, internal experts and experimental results to guide program decisions.