Asset Lead, Oncology Clinical Development (Executive Director

Drug Developer And Experienced Asset/Program Leader

Astellas is a global life sciences company committed to turning innovative science into value for patients. We provide transformative therapies in disease areas that include oncology, ophthalmology, urology, immunology, and women's health. Through our research and development programs, we are pioneering new healthcare solutions for diseases with high unmet medical need. Learn more at

Are you driven to make a real difference in the lives of patients?

We're seeking passionate individuals who thrive in dynamic environments, embrace new ideas, and aren't afraid to take intelligent risks. People who act with unwavering integrity and are deeply committed to making a tangible impact.

Purpose and Scope:

We are looking for a passionate drug developer and experienced asset/program leader for our next generation immunotherapy programs (T cell engagers, ADCs and iADCs). The Asset Lead has overall and primary accountability for the development of an asset(s) from late preclinical through life cycle management who reports to the Primary Focus Development Head. The Asset lead is the leader of the matrix asset development team.

This is a role for someone who is excited by the potential for immunotherapies and has the scientific background and business acumen to lead drug development teams for immunotherapy and cancer cell therapy assets. (This is not a project management role)

Responsibilities and Accountabilities:

• Leads either (1) a Brand Asset Team or (2) a significant (e.g., Flagship) late phase development stage asset team or (3) a portfolio of early-stage development asset teams.
• Defines the individual brand / asset strategy with partner Global Strategic Brand Leads (GSBL). Leads the development of the program and portfolio vision, provides strategic direction and executional oversight to asset team(s) translating strategies into a comprehensive global development and registrational plan aligned with the corporate strategic plan.
• In terms of primary programs they support, be the point of accountability for program development vision and strategy and for the execution of program deliverables and day-to-day decision making for the asset(s) in partnership with the assigned GSBL.
• Accountable for leading a cross-functional asset team(s) in accordance with the E2E model to advance one or more assets from preclinical candidate nomination through clinical development, global/local regulatory submissions, and approval.
• Effectively communicates with executive leadership through relevant Governance Committees and responsible for the approval of the program and or project plans on behalf of the asset team.
• Develops clear, prospective Go/No-Go decision points and continually validates the viability of the program ensuring development plans maximize the value of the asset.
• Accountable for effective leadership within a matrix environment for assigned asset(s), implements, and ensures key development, life cycle management milestones, and budget goals for assigned projects/programs are met.
• Actively manages issues and risks and proactively identifies alternative strategies in collaboration with Asset Team representatives.
• Ensures the programs have adequate resources and technical expertise to meet the strategic objectives.
• Partners to develop a joint global strategy for co-development programs, representing Astellas' position and minimizing escalation amongst the partners.
• Guides and mentors asset team members, champions the global asset team model and ensures team health and effectiveness.

Required Qualifications:

• A minimum of a bachelor's degree in the sciences or pharmaceutical sciences and 10 years' experience in drug development team leadership in pharmaceuticals, biopharmaceuticals, or biotechnology.
• Demonstrated success leading the development of one or more asset(s) in the early development space (through clinical PoC) preferably in immunotherapy or cell therapy.
• Demonstrable experience leading IND/IMPD, NDA/MAA/BLA, or FDA Advisory Committee preparation or other CDE/PMDA/EMA meetings, or similar responsibilities.

Preferred Qualifications:

• A doctoral or an advanced professional degree (Ph.D., PharmD., MD) is preferable with a specialty in oncology, immunology, cell therapy, and 5-7 years' experience within industry leading program teams.

Location and Working Environment

This position is based in Northbrook, IL. Remote work from anywhere in the US is available.

At Astellas we recognize the importance of work/life balance, and we are proud to offer a hybrid working solution allowing time to connect with colleagues at the office with the flexibility to also work from home. We believe this will optimize the most productive work environment for all employees to succeed and deliver. Hybrid work from certain locations may be permitted in accordance with Astellas' Responsible Flexibility Guidelines.

This position is a global role with strong interaction with various disciplines and international…