Senior Director, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Data Strategy, TOSI

Are you ready to harness AI and data to reshape how life‑changing medicines are sustained at scale? In this role, you will set the vision and lead the execution of a bold AI and digital strategy that connects development to large‑scale technical operations, accelerating productivity, compliance, and problem solving across the commercial product lifecycle. Imagine turning complex CMC processes, product transfers, and regulatory documentation into streamlined, data‑driven workflows that free teams to focus on the science that matters to patients!

You will lead a small, high‑performing team of AI and digital experts to deliver measurable impact—reducing cycle times, improving first‑time‑right outcomes, and embedding sophisticated analytics into daily decision‑making.

Define and own the AI, data, and digital strategy for on‑market technical functions, aligned to business objectives and patient impact.

Drive measurable productivity gains and cost efficiencies; set benefit targets and ensure solutions translate to outcomes in the business.

Build and manage a balanced portfolio of initiatives that redefine day‑to‑day operations, from pilot to scale.

Establish metrics, tracking mechanisms, and governance to ensure benefits are realised and sustained.

Lead the development, delivery, implementation, and adoption of digital and AI solutions that enhance efficiency and innovation across teams.

Partner with platform owners to integrate ERP, MES, QMS, and content/regulatory systems into end‑to‑end digital solutions.

Shape robust data architectures and governance that enable AI at scale in regulated environments.

Create compelling business cases, align senior leaders, secure funding, and track the value delivered.

Build a strategic capability program that raises digital fluency and prepares the organization for the future.

Lead and mentor a small team of AI/digital experts; foster a culture of innovation, delivery, and continuous improvement.

Manage budgets, resources, and multi‑functional collaborations to meet commitments and influence outcomes.

Why AstraZeneca: Here you will join a community that pairs scientific rigor with digital ambition to deliver medicines faster, more reliably, and more sustainably. You will work shoulder to shoulder with scientists, engineers, data experts, and manufacturing leaders—unexpected teams in the same room unleashing bold thinking—using pioneering platforms and modern ways of working to solve real problems for patients. With meaningful investment, global reach, and leaders who open doors, you will shape high‑impact solutions and see them scaled across the enterprise. We balance pace with support, and ambition with humanity, so you can stretch your capabilities while helping others do the same.

• Master's degree or equivalent experience or higher in a relevant science or engineering field.
• Technical expertise, including knowledge in the language of AI, data engineering, e.g., Python, R, cloud platforms (AWS/GCP).
• Solid understanding of data architecture, data governance, and AI deployment at scale in regulated environments.
• Experience working with enterprise platforms (e.g., ERP, MES, QMS, content/regulatory systems) and integrating them into digital solutions.
• Strong CMC knowledge with experience in Pharmaceutical Product Development and Manufacture, along with extensive knowledge of CMC processes across all product stages.
• Strategic leadership with a proven track record of developing, leading and delivering multi‑functional digital strategies and transformative programs within a pharmaceutical CMC context.
• An innovative outlook that employs a digital‑first approach to streamline processes, enhance compliance, and foster efficiency.
• Outstanding business insight, proficiency in developing a strong argument for projects, organisational skills and lean tool deployment.
• Managing transitions and agility with ability to drive digital transformation and adapt strategy based on internal constraints or evolving tech/regulatory landscapes.
• Experienced in managing collaborators, good communication skills, capable of leading and collaborating effectively at senior levels.
• Ability to build consensus and navigate conflicts.
• A problem‑solving approach that delivers critical thinking and substantial business value.
• Thorough understanding of principles, applications and management of SHE and cGMP.
• PhD or equivalent experience in a relevant scientific, engineering, or data field.
• Demonstrated experience operationalizing MLOps, model lifecycle management, and validation in GxP contexts.
• Familiarity with generative AI, knowledge graphs, semantic layers, and digital twins for manufacturing and CMC.
• Experience leading global, multi‑functional teams and vendor ecosystems across multiple time zones.
• Knowledge of ICH guidelines (e.g., Q8‑Q12) and regulatory interactions related to digital/AI‑enabled submissions.
• Track record of thought leadership (e.g., publications, conference talks, patents) on AI and data in CMC.
• Certification in Lean Six Sigma or portfolio/program management.
• Experience spanning both small‑molecule and biologics would be advantageous.