Director Process & Capabilities Lead – Small Molecule Automation and Digital Research

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Director Process & Capabilities Lead – Small Molecule Automation and Digital Research

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Takeda Digital Ventures Director Process & Capabilities Lead – Small Molecule Automation and Digital Research

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Director Process & Capabilities Lead – Small Molecule Automation and Digital Research

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Takeda Digital Ventures Get AI-powered advice on this job and more exclusive features. Job Level: Senior Travel: Minimal (if any)

At Takeda, we strive to provide transformational opportunities for every member of our team, and we empower our people to take charge of their futures. In an environment that fosters lifelong learning and a growth mindset, you’ll have the support you need to thrive — at work and beyond.

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Job ID

R0160229

Date posted

08/07/2025

Location

Boston, Massachusetts

By clicking the “Apply” button, I understand that my employment application process with Takeda will commence and that the information I provide in my application will be processed in line with Takeda’sPrivacy Noticeand Terms of Use. I further attest that all information I submit in my employment application is true to the best of my knowledge.

Job Description

Are you looking for a patient-focused, innovation-driven company that will inspire you and empower you to shine? Join us as a Director Process & Capabilities Lead – Small Molecule Automation and Digital Research in our Cambridge office.

At Takeda, we are transforming the pharmaceutical industry through our R&D-driven market leadership and being a values-led company. To do this, we empower our people to realize their potential through life-changing work. Certified as a Global Top Employer, we offer stimulating careers, encourage innovation, and strive for excellence in everything we do. We foster an inclusive, collaborative workplace, in which our global teams are united by an unwavering commitment to deliver

Better Health and a Brighter Future

to people around the world.

Here, you will be a vital contributor to our inspiring, bold mission.

Takeda is transforming the future of small molecule research. We are seeking a visionary and results-driven leader to serve as Process & Capabilities Lead – Small Molecule Automation and Digital Research. This role is a critical component of our Digital Research Transformation program and is responsible for redefining, automating, and digitalizing discovery workflows in our small molecule research. The successful candidate will harness innovation and utilize their experience and expertise to reimagine workflows, integrate automation and AI/ML solutions, and embed best practices across our small molecule discovery platforms.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Digital Transformation: Spearhead the end-to-end redesign of small molecule discovery processes in a “closed loop”, AI/digitally enabled and automated future-state model Drive process modernization initiatives that include the integration of automation, predictive modeling, generative chemistry, large-scale data analysis, and digital assay platforms. Collaborative Process Redesign: Partner closely with scientific and computational teams, IT, Digital, external partners, and Automation experts to ensure seamless execution and integration of new technologies and processes. Serve as a trusted change partner to the chemistry and in vitro pharmacology communities, fostering a digital-first mindset across research teams. Operational Excellence & Execution: Redesign end-to-end small molecule discovery workflows, focusing on automation and AI-enablement opportunities. Develop, implement, and track robust KPIs related to workflow efficiency, data accessibility, process cycle improvements, and user adoption. Innovation & Capability Building: Collaborate with both dry lab and platform teams to ensure integrated, scalable solutions that enhance the digital capability across the discovery spectrum. Advocate for digital best practices and operational excellence across the organization in alignment with Takeda’s transformation agenda.

Required Qualifications

A minimum of 10 years of experience in pharmaceutical drug discovery with a strong foundation in small molecule discovery, medicinal chemistry, or closely related fields. Proven leadership and experience in scientific workflow design and process optimization, particularly within AI/digital and lab automation initiatives. Track record in driving large-scale transformations and visionary changes. Demonstrated success in leading cross-functional teams including science, digital, IT, and operational stakeholders in a fast-paced, innovative environment. Advanced proficiency with lab digital tools (e.g., ELNs, LIMS, cheminformatics, prediction models) and data systems, along with a strong grasp on AI/ML and automation trends. Excellent problem-solving, communication, and stakeholder engagement skills. Comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities in large molecule discovery, bolstered by a strong change management acumen. Advanced degree (Ph.D. or equivalent) in Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or a related discipline is strongly preferred.

Why Takeda?

Role

At Takeda, you will lead a transformative initiative that redefines how we discover and develop small molecules. This role offers the opportunity to:

Influence and shape groundbreaking digital research strategies. Drive innovation in scientifically and operationally complex environments. Collaborate with diverse experts and thought leaders at the forefront of small molecule discovery. Be a key player in a high-impact transformation with executive sponsorship and strategic visibility.

Takeda is proud in its commitment to creating a diverse workforce and providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, parental status, national origin, age, disability, citizenship status, genetic information or characteristics, marital status, status as a Vietnam era veteran, special disabled veteran, or other protected veteran in accordance with applicable federal, state and local laws, and any other characteristic protected by law

This position is currently classified as “hybrid” in accordance with Takeda’s Hybrid and Remote Work policy.

Takeda Compensation And Benefits Summary

We understand compensation is an important factor as you consider the next step in your career. We are committed to equitable pay for all employees, and we strive to be more transparent with our pay practices.

For Location:

Boston, MA

U.S. Base Salary Range

$174,500.00 - $274,230.00

The estimated salary range reflects an anticipated range for this position. The actual base salary offered may depend on a variety of factors, including the qualifications of the individual applicant for the position, years of relevant experience, specific and unique skills, level of education attained, certifications or other professional licenses held, and the location in which the applicant lives and/or from which they will be performing the job.The actual base salary offered will be in accordance with state or local minimum wage requirements for the job location.

U.S. based employees may be eligible for short-term and/or long-termincentives. U.S.based employees may be eligible to participate in medical, dental, vision insurance, a 401(k) plan and company match, short-term and long-term disability coverage, basic life insurance, a tuition reimbursement program, paid volunteer time off, company holidays, and well-being benefits, among others. U.S.based employees are also eligible to receive, per calendar year, up to 80 hours of sick time, and new hires are eligible to accrue up to 120 hours of paid vacation.

EEO Statement

Takeda is proud in its commitment to creating a diverse workforce and providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, parental status, national origin, age, disability, citizenship status, genetic information or characteristics, marital status, status as a Vietnam era veteran, special disabled veteran, or other protected veteran in accordance with applicable federal, state and local laws, and any other characteristic protected by law.

Locations

Boston, MA

Worker Type

Employee

Worker Sub-Type

Regular

Time Type

Full time

Job Exempt

Yes

It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

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Seniority level Director Employment type

Employment type Full-time Job function

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