Scientific Director, Chemical & Process Development

Working with Us
Challenging. Meaningful. Life-changing. Those aren’t words that are usually associated with a job. But working at Bristol Myers Squibb is anything but usual. Here, uniquely interesting work happens every day, in every department. From optimizing a production line to the latest breakthroughs in cell therapy, this is work that transforms the lives of patients, and the careers of those who do it. You’ll get the chance to grow and thrive through opportunities uncommon in scale and scope, alongside high-achieving teams. Take your career farther than you thought possible.

Bristol Myers Squibb recognizes the importance of balance and flexibility in our work environment. We offer a wide variety of competitive benefits, services and programs that provide our employees with the resources to pursue their goals, both at work and in their personal lives. Read more: careers.bms.com/working-with-us.

Chemical Process Development (CPD) is a team of organic chemists, analytical chemists, and chemical engineers working together to design novel syntheses from raw materials to supply new medicines to patients. CPD scientists focus on developing safe, economical, sustainable, and robust processes to support clinical trials and the launch of new medicines across various drug modalities including small molecules, peptides, oligonucleotides, and antibody drug conjugates. Our work is driven by innovative science, data-driven decision-making, and collaborative teamwork. The scientific knowledge package from the manufacturing process, design parameters, and control strategies enables regulatory filings to bring these novel medicines to patients worldwide.

Position Summary

The Scientific Director in Chemical & Process Development (CPD) applies leading-edge scientific and chemistry knowledge to lead complex, multidisciplinary projects, including resource and budget allocation as well as operational leadership. This role is recognized as an outstanding scientific leader within the department and actively contributes to the strategic direction of the chemistry discipline. The Scientific Director collaborates across functions to drive innovation, challenge the status quo, and ensure that CPD delivers its objectives.

Roles & Responsibilities

• Leverage a deep understanding and application of process chemistry principles, including route assessment, invention, and optimization to drive project strategy.

•  Ability to apply first-principles approaches to risk assessment and decision-making.
• Lead activities related to chemical and process development for various modalities; identify trends and apply new solutions. Experience representing leading Drug Substance strategies in cross-functional CMC teams and broader enterprise.
• Ensure external partners deliver measurable value and support long-term business objectives. Effectively manage external FTEs and partners, maintaining accountability for performance, timelines, and deliverables.
• Collaborate to shape departmental strategy, influence technology decisions, and manage resources and budgets for critical projects.

• Champions innovation by leveraging digital and automation tools to improve processes.
• Proactively establish KPIs to measure performance and inform continuous improvement and investment opportunities.
• Develop talent at different career stages through coaching, mentoring and guiding principles.  Strengthen the depth and breadth of project leaders within Chemical & Process Development, promoting a “One CPD” mindset.

Qualifications & Experience

• Ph.D. in Chemistry or M.Sc. with 15 years experience in chemical/process development.
• Strong background in chemical development; experience with ADCs and TIDES preferred.
• Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams and global collaborations.
• Experience in outsourcing strategies and external partnerships.
• Actively contributes to the scientific community through high-quality publications in peer-reviewed journals. Leverages external engagements to share innovation and brings back actionable insights.

Core Competencies

Strategic thinking, business acumen, risk-based judgment, exceptional communication, commitment to employee development, diversity and inclusion, and continuous improvement.

If you come across a role that intrigues you but doesn’t perfectly line up with your resume, we encourage you to apply anyway. You could be one step away from work that will transform your life and career.

Compensation Overview:

New Brunswick - NJ - US: $191,77