Senior Director, Development Sciences Licensing & Acquisitions

Job Description

The Senior Director, Development Sciences Licensing & Acquisitions leads a specialized team responsible for evaluating external pipeline opportunities, overseeing due diligence activities, and guiding Chemical, Manufacturing, and Controls (CMC) strategies for licensing and acquisitions across multiple therapeutic areas. The role is pivotal in assessing and integrating technical, regulatory, and operational considerations for external innovations, ensuring successful transitions into internal development pipelines.

• Build and manage a high‑performing team dedicated to technical evaluation of novel drug substances, drug products, devices, and platforms. Partner with key technical SMEs to evaluate opportunities and understand impact across technical functions.
• Lead CMC due diligence activities, including comprehensive technical assessments, risk mitigation, and integration of CMC strategy with clinical development plans for business development opportunities.
• Serve as the primary CMC representative in cross‑functional evaluations with R&D, Regulatory Affairs, Operations, Quality, Finance, and Commercial teams, influencing decision‑making and integrating CMC perspectives into overall business strategy.
• Prepare and present balanced technical recommendations, risk analyses, and findings to senior management and governance forums.
• Ensure seamless transition and knowledge transfer of externally sourced assets into internal product development pipelines, coordinating with project management and technical teams.
• Support post‑deal integration and development/resource planning to ensure continuity of clinical programs.
• Monitor industry and regulatory developments in CMC, manufacturing, and compliance, adapting strategies to the evolving landscape.
• Manage multiple concurrent CMC diligence projects across various asset types and therapeutic areas in a fast‑paced environment.
• Build and maintain best‑in‑class licensing and acquisition processes to move projects forward efficiently and effectively, providing recommendations for dismissing ideas early and effectively.

• Advanced degree (PhD or MS preferred) in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Chemical Engineering, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or related discipline.
• 12+ years of experience in CMC roles within the pharmaceutical or biotechnology sector, with significant exposure to due diligence and external innovation.
• Proven track record of technical team leadership and management of cross‑functional projects.
• Deep knowledge of drug development, manufacturing, and regulatory requirements for small molecules, biologics, peptides, and combination products.
• Strong analytical, strategic problem‑solving, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
• Experience in presenting recommendations and influencing senior executive management and governance bodies.

VP Development Sciences, Development Sciences CMC Functional Heads, S&E and BD groups; PDS&T, Operations, R&D Finance

• Competitive base salary range based on job grade, geographic location, and other factors; subject to change.
• Comprehensive benefits package including paid time off (vacation, holidays, sick), medical/dental/vision insurance, and 401(k).
• Eligibility for short‑term incentive programs.

Abb Vie is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to operating with integrity, driving innovation, transforming lives and serving our community. Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled. US & Puerto Rico applicants seeking a reasonable accommodation, visit  US & Puerto Rico only – to learn more, visit