Character Biosciences is a drug discovery and development company building world-class, deeply-phenotyped databases that integrate genomics with longitudinal clinical and imaging data. Our interdisciplinary team, comprising experts in clinical science, data science, statistical genetics, machine learning and drug discovery, utilizes this platform to determine genetic drivers of disease progression, advance novel therapeutics and define genetics-based patient stratification. Powered by our data platform, Character Bio is currently advancing two programs in Dry Age-related Macular Degeneration with additional programs in earlier stages of discovery research.
As an Associate Director/Director, Project and Alliance Management, you will be responsible for the overall accountability and execution of Character’s cross-functional initiatives and strategic partnerships to advance use of the data platform for novel drug discovery and development. You will be instrumental in establishing processes and tools, risk assessment and mitigation, and strategic planning, with respect to resources, cross-functional plans and timelines across projects.
This role is hybrid and can be based in either South San Francisco or Jersey City.
Key Responsibilities:
Project Management
- Assume responsibility for internal project management in support of the cross-functional Data Science Convergence group, including Data Science, Genetics, Engineering, and Drug Discovery
- Proactively identify and communicate critical path items to management and identify project issues, including those related to timing, resources and funding, to prevent delays in project milestones
- Develop and execute project plans and timelines; track and manage milestones within the defined scope, time and cost constraints; support coordination and communication between teams
- Facilitate the project team meetings, including meeting agendas, minutes, action items and decisions and follow-up
- Work collaboratively with Business Development and Corporate Strategy to support corporate goals and objectives
- Support overall portfolio-planning and corporate development functions by establishing templates and processes
Alliance Management
- Plan and manage the operational aspects of Character’s partnerships, including setting guidelines for communication at regular alliance meetings, and ensuring execution on those updates internally
- Act as the primary point of contact for partner organizations, facilitating effective communication and collaboration
- Develop, maintain and execute the internal roadmap for Character’s partnerships
- Assist in the development of internal tools, systems, processes, and best practices for the smooth operation of partnership activities
- Proactively identify potential issues and take the lead to resolve them; gaining internal alignment and taking accountability for resolution with partner
- Establish a strong working relationship with counterparts at partner organizations, ensure effective governance, and successful execution of Character’s partnerships
- Collaborate closely with internal stakeholders, including Data Science, Research & Development, Business Development and Corporate Strategy, to ensure alignment of objectives and smooth execution of partnership goals and activities
- Coordinate joint projects, meetings, and workshops, promoting active collaboration and synergy among cross-functional teams; track action items and timelines to complete
Skills and Qualifications:
- Masters/PhD preferred; BS or graduate degree in a scientific discipline required
- PMP certification preferred
- Deep familiarity with the biotech industry and drug development activities
- 5+ years managing cross functional project teams in the life sciences space (e.g., program management from early phase through pivotal studies regulatory)
- Strong influencing skills including negotiation, meetings management, and group dynamics, ability to balance concerns of line management with objectives of cross functional teams
- Ability to interface at all levels of the organization
- Proficiency with common project management tools (particularly Jira), practices and methodology
- Ability to effectively plan, prioritize and coordinate multiple tasks and adjust to changing priorities to deliver results to tight deadlines
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to build strong alliances internally and externally.
- Proven conflict management skills
- Ability to rationalize both strategically and tactically and be able to present recommendations to senior leaders and key stakeholders
Benefits include a competitive salary, strong equity incentives, medical, dental, vision, 401(k), and a flexible paid time off policy. Character is committed to recruiting, developing, and supporting colleagues from all backgrounds. We embrace diversity, equity, and inclusion as an integral part of our culture. Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records. We are an E-Verify company.
