Assoc Director, R&D Quality in London

At Gilead, we’re creating a healthier world for all people. For more than 35 years, we’ve tackled diseases such as HIV, viral hepatitis, COVID-19 and cancer – working relentlessly to develop therapies that help improve lives and to ensure access to these therapies across the globe. We continue to fight against the world’s biggest health challenges, and our mission requires collaboration, determination and a relentless drive to make a difference. Every member of Gilead’s team plays a critical role in the discovery and development of life‑changing scientific innovations. Our employees are our greatest asset as we work to achieve our bold ambitions, and we’re looking for the next wave of passionate and ambitious people ready to make a direct impact. We believe every employee deserves a great leader. People Leaders are the cornerstone to the employee experience at Gilead and Kite. As a people leader now or in the future, you are the key driver in evolving our culture and creating an environment where every employee feels included, developed and empowered to fulfil their aspirations. Join Gilead and help create possible, together.

Job Description

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Lead and execute internal GxP audits in alignment with the annual and quarterly audit program.
• Manage and oversee routine and complex audit activities across multiple projects, ensuring timely completion.
• Define and communicate audit plans for contract auditors; train and oversee their activities to ensure alignment with company procedures.
• Evaluate SOPs, systems, and documentation for audit readiness, regulatory compliance, and fitness for purpose.
• Develop and manage CAPAs and deviations in collaboration with cross‑functional teams.
• Support Veeva QMS record development and oversight of commitments and action plans.
• Lead inspection readiness activities, including training, playbook development, and SME preparation.
• Support or lead regulatory inspections, including coordination of responses and post‑inspection follow‑up.
• Analyze inspection trends and integrate lessons learned into readiness planning and quality improvement.
• Maintain inspection tracking, archiving, and metrics for quality management review.
• Serve as the compliance lead and point‑of‑contact for assigned Kite R&D functions, programs, and/or vendors.
• Act as a Subject Matter Expert performing global risk assessments across assigned functions and programs.
• Advise study teams and R&D functions on GxP regulatory requirements, quality standards, and risk mitigation strategies.
• Deliver GxP and inspection‑specific training, including standard modules and special topics.
• Ensure appropriate content and delivery of training materials; promote a culture of quality across the organization.
• Lead intra‑ and interdepartmental teams focused on operational improvements and regulatory change preparedness.
• Initiate and communicate operational changes in a positive and effective manner.
• Manage audit and compliance metrics to facilitate cross‑functional process improvements.
• Establish and implement new tools and systems to support high standards in compliance.
• Coordinate and review the work of others; provide matrixed leadership to project teams.
• Plan and prioritize work effectively to meet tight timelines and evolving business needs.

LEADERSHIP

• Provides collaborative matrixed leadership to project and inspection teams.
• Could manage direct reports.
• Where applicable hires, develops and retains diverse top talent on the team.
• Sets clear and elevating goals for the team and individuals direct reports.
• Coaches direct reports on their performance, development and career interests.
• Contributes to resourcing planning and budget, ensuring delivery against objectives and with good business judgement and priorities.
• Ensures own work complies with established practices, policies and processes, and any regulatory or other requirements.
• Fosters a commitment to quality in individuals and a culture of quality across R&D.

PREFERRED REQUIREMENTS

• BA/BS or advanced degree in life sciences or related field.
• Significant experience in biopharma quality, compliance, audits, inspections, and CAPA management.
• Preferred: GCP, GCLP, and GPV auditing and inspection experience.

KNOWLEDGE & OTHER REQUIREMENTS

• Deep understanding of QMS operations and GxP standards (GCP, GLP/GCLP, GPV, ESC).
• Strong knowledge of the drug development lifecycle from early research to post‑marketing.
• Strategic and analytical skills with ability to assess complex systems and data.
• Proven ability to lead without authority and influence cross‑functional initiatives.
• Strong interpersonal, communication, negotiation, and conflict resolution skills.
• Ability to travel 40‑50%.