Executive Director, Program Management - Pharmaceutical

About the role

Ardelyx, a commercial-stage biopharmaceutical company, is hiring an Executive Director, Program Management in Newark, California. The role works closely with product teams and R&D functions to turn asset strategy into integrated development plans and drive execution of key program objectives. It reports to the Vice President, Asset Strategy. The position is hybrid (2-3 days a week at the Newark office) and the company will only consider local candidates.

Key responsibilities

• Lead team discussions on project strategies, short- and long-term planning, expediting timelines and resource constraints, with appropriate escalation
• Partner with R&D functions to manage overlapping timelines and interdependent deliverables for clinical operations and regulatory submissions
• Support Product Team meetings, develop agendas, summarize decisions and provide program updates and recommendations to senior leadership
• Develop, track and maintain integrated project plans, deliverables and milestones
• Communicate interdependencies, critical path activities and alignment with corporate goals
• Build strong relationships with cross-functional team members and external vendors
• Lead scenario planning to evaluate development options against timelines, costs, resources and program risk
• Establish and improve program management practices, tools and reporting

Required profile

• Bachelor's degree with 15+ years of project management experience in drug development, or equivalent experience
• Strong understanding of the drug development process and US and ex-US regulatory requirements, including NDA/BLA submission experience
• Experience in early-stage programs (pre-clinical through Phase I/II) and late-stage programs (Phase II/III pivotal)
• Proven leadership of complex programs and ability to balance strategy with day-to-day activities
• PMP certification preferred

Required skills

• Integrated project planning and timeline management
• Microsoft Project, PowerPoint and Excel
• Excellent communication, conflict resolution and influence skills

What we offer

• Anticipated annualized base pay of $290,000 - $350,000, possibly with an annual bonus target and equity awards
• 401(k) with employer match, 12 weeks of paid parental leave, equity incentive plans
• Health, life insurance and disability coverage, flexible time off and at least 11 paid holidays