Executive Director, Pharmaceutical Operations

Crinetics is a pharmaceutical company based in San Diego, California, developing much-needed therapies for people with endocrine diseases and endocrine-related tumors. We were founded by a dedicated team of scientists with the simple belief that better therapies developed from rigorous innovation can lead to better lives. Our work continues to make a real difference in the lives of patients. We have a prolific discovery engine and a robust preclinical and clinical development pipeline. We are driven by science with a patient-centric and team-oriented culture. Crinetics is known for its inclusive workplace culture. We are also a dog-friendly workplace. This is an exciting time to join Crinetics as we shape our organization into the world’s premier fully-integrated endocrine company from discovery to patients. Join our team as we transform the lives of others.

Position Summary:

The Executive Director, Pharmaceutical Operations, will oversee and drive critical aspects of Chemistry, Manufacturing, and Controls (CMC) within our pharmaceutical operations. Reporting to senior leadership, this role is responsible for CMC project management, budgeting, contract negotiations, resource allocation, and driving operational excellence. This role will leverage extensive pharmaceutical operations experience, financial expertise, Six Sigma training, and exceptional relationship management skills to optimize collaboration with Contract Development and Manufacturing Organizations (CDMOs) and other partners.

Essential Job Functions and Responsibilities:

These may include but are not limited to:

• Lead comprehensive oversight of all CMC projects, ensuring timely delivery, regulatory compliance, quality assurance, and cost-effectiveness.
• Direct cross-functional teams to set clear objectives, monitor project milestones, and ensure alignment with organizational strategy.
• Develop, monitor, and manage the CMC operational budgets, providing financial stewardship and cost control strategies.
• Oversee resource forecasting, planning, and allocation to maximize productivity and operational effectiveness.
• Lead negotiation, management, and execution of contracts with external CDMOs, service providers, and vendors.
• Ensure contract compliance, favorable terms, quality service delivery, and cost efficiency.
• Champion the implementation and sustainability of Six Sigma methodologies, driving continuous improvement initiatives to enhance operational effectiveness.
• Establish and ensure adherence to best business practices within pharmaceutical operations.
• Build, strengthen, and maintain strategic partnerships with CDMOs, vendors, and key stakeholders.
• Facilitate clear and effective communication across internal teams and external partners, fostering collaborative environments.
• Serve as a key advisor to senior leadership on operational decision-making, risk management, regulatory compliance, and growth opportunities.
• Identify opportunities for innovation, scalability, and continuous improvement in pharmaceutical operations.

Education and Experience:

Required:

• Bachelor’s or master’s degree in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Finance, Business Administration, or related disciplines (dual degrees strongly preferred).
• Minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in pharmaceutical operations leadership roles, specifically in CMC operations and financial oversight.
• Minimum of 12 years of people management experience.
• Formal training or certification in Six Sigma methodologies, with proven success in implementing operational excellence initiatives.
• Strong track record of negotiating and managing complex contracts and substantial operational budgets.
• Demonstrated capability in strategic relationship-building with external CDMOs and internal stakeholders.
• Advanced analytical and financial management skills, capable of driving strategic decision-making in complex operational contexts.
• Strategic visionary with strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Exceptional organizational, planning, and prioritization skills with meticulous attention to detail.
• Influential leadership presence with the ability to motivate teams toward achieving ambitious operational goals.
• Collaborative mindset with excellent interpersonal and communication skills.

Physical Demands and Work Environment:

Physical Activities: On a continuous basis, sit at desk for a long period of time; intermittently answer telephone and write or use a keyboard to communicate through written means. Some walking and lifting up to 25 lbs. may be required. The noise level in the work environment is typically low to moderate. The physical dema