Executive Director, Dmpk - Respiratory And Immunology

About AstraZeneca:

AstraZeneca is a global, science-led biopharmaceutical company that focuses on the discovery, development, and commercialization of prescription medicines. Our innovative pipeline of therapies in respiratory and immunology reflects our dedication to pioneering science and improving the lives of patients with chronic diseases. We work together to push the boundaries of science to deliver life-changing medicines.

The Role:

We are seeking an Executive Director, DMPK to join our team aligned to the Respiratory and Immunology portfolio. In this pivotal role, you will shape the direction of DMPK science across a variety of programs, overseeing drug discovery efforts from preclinical through clinical development. You will provide scientific leadership in DMPK strategies to ensure robust and innovative drug development for our R&I pipeline.

The Executive Director will influence high-level strategic decisions while leading a world-class DMPK team. You will also engage cross-functionally with key collaborators, both within and outside the company, to drive forward the development of novel therapies that address significant unmet patient needs. To be successful, you will need to demonstrate strong leadership abilities and a deep understanding of drug metabolism and pharmacokinetics in the context of drug development, particularly within R&I disease areas.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and manage the DMPK function within R&I drug development, ensuring alignment with the overall drug discovery strategy.

• Provide leadership and strategic direction in DMPK approaches (pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, ADME-Tox) for novel therapeutic agents, including biologics and small molecules.

• Collaborate closely with project teams, including medicinal chemistry, biology, toxicology, clinical pharmacology, and regulatory, to support discovery and preclinical to clinical transitions.

• Ensure that DMPK data informs critical decision-making in target selection, drug design, and development pathways.

• Shape the development strategy for R&I programs, ensuring the successful progression of programs into clinical development.

• Act as a scientific ambassador for DMPK internally and externally, representing AstraZeneca at scientific conferences, industry events, and with regulatory bodies.

• Oversee a team of DMPK experts, driving innovation in assay development and delivering scientific excellence.

• Foster a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement within the DMPK team and across subject areas.

• Take ownership for integrating DMPK data into regulatory submissions and clinical trials, ensuring compliance with global regulatory requirements.

Required Qualifications:

• A PhD or equivalent experience in pharmacokinetics, medicinal chemistry, pharmacology, or a related field.

• Extensive experience in DMPK with a proven track record of leadership in drug discovery and development in the respiratory, immunology, or related therapeutic areas.

• Demonstrated success in leading cross-functional teams to progress drug development from discovery to clinical phases.

• Strong understanding of ADME-Tox, drug-drug interaction, biopharmaceuticals, and non-clinical modelling.

• Experience in leading and mentoring a diverse, high-performing team.

• A strategic approach and ability to influence decisions at senior levels.

• Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to engage and inspire collaborators at all levels, both internally and externally.

Desired Qualifications:

• Experience in developing biologics, antibodies, or gene therapies in addition to small molecules.

• Experience in regulatory submissions (INDs, etc.) and working with regulatory agencies (FDA, EMA, etc.).

Location: When we put unexpected teams in the same room, we unleash bold thinking with the power to inspire life-changing medicines. In-person working gives us the platform we need to connect, work at pace and challenge perceptions. That's why we work, on average, a minimum of three days per week from the office. not flexible. This role is located in Gothenburg, Sweden and is not available for remote work or with travel support.

Why AstraZeneca?

At AstraZeneca, we are inspired by the patients we serve and guided by our commitment to science. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to make a real difference, working on the frontiers of drug development with some of the world’s brightest minds. We offer a collaborative and inclusive culture where you can develop your career and shape the future of medicines! We value diversity and believe that having a diverse workforce is fundamental to the continued success of our mission. We encourage applications from individuals with a diverse set of backgrounds and experiences.