Director, GMP Operational Quality

Job Description

General/Position Summary

The Director, Quality Assurance GMP Operations will oversee the GMP QA operations including batch disposition process across CDMOs in the US and Internationally.   Responsibilities include day-to day operational quality oversight for internal batch record review operations and QA manufacturing operations from clinical to commercial stage of product globally.

The role will closely partner with operational stakeholders to lead/support the development and execution of quality & technical risk mitigation, execution of operational activities participation of governance committees associated with improvements to the disposition process.  A key expectation is the ability to closely collaborate and build relationships with internal and external stakeholders to drive compliance and continuous improvement activities.   The role may support on site internal manufacturing activities.

The role is a 5 days on site role at Vertex in the Boston Seaport.

Key Duties & Responsibilities

• Establishment of quality oversight for internal quality and external CTO/CDMO operations for the batch disposition process, across development, launch and commercial manufacturing globally.
• Proactively drives continuous improvements in processes, identifies and mitigates compliance gaps and drive culture of quality across all operational activities.
• Manage the day-to-day timely release of finished product to ensure compliance with Regulatory and Vertex cGMP requirements.
• Represent Quality and serve as a trusted partner for the disposition activities of drug product.
• Lead and mentor other team members, support development of organizational capabilities and talent building.
• Assure disposition activities across CDMOs are compliant and consistent.
• Ensure adequate training to the Department personnel.
• Manage the department resources with regards to budget and personnel.
• Build strategic relationships with internal and external partners – CDMOs and CTOs within the Quality organization to ensure Quality issues are raised and addressed, as necessary.
• Create and foster a culture of collaboration, development, and engagement for advancing quality outcomes and operational excellence.
• Develop, establish, and implement Batch disposition operational Quality and Compliance metrics.
• Act as the batch disposition subject matter expert (SME) in support of regulatory inspections and audits.
• Establish/participate and lead GxP Cell & Gene Therapy Management Reviews to gain insights regarding efficiency and operational performance across the GXP operations, including identification of opportunities for improvement and associated actions.
• Work closely with the cross- functional partners to prepare for and support Health Authority inspections, respond to information requests, adjudicate compliance discussions, and negotiate any required corrective actions.
• Represent C&G Quality to lead/participate in complex projects and partner with key stakeholders for alignment in strategic and operational planning and delivery of business & financial priorities and goals.
• May be required to support manufacturing on site activities.

Required Education Level

• Bachelor's degree or Master's degree or equivalent

Required Experience

10+ years of experience and 5+ years in a management/supervisory role, or the equivalent combination of education and experience in a regulated pharmaceutical environment

Required Knowledge/Skills

• In-depth global health regulatory agency knowledge and experience across GXP life cycle in Cell & Gene therapy and/or Biologics (EU GMPs, FDA 21CFR Part 1271, GxPs).
• Broad and current knowledge of batch disposition industry trends and best practices in Cell/Gene therapies.
• Preferred QA Operational experience for Autologous Cell Therapy Operations.
• Broad technical knowledge in Cell technology, aseptic manufacturing technology, analytical assays, cell & genetic therapies/Biologics processing, fill/finish and testing.
• Demonstrated strategic planning and execution skills required for operational effectiveness and compliance. Proven ability with Root Cause Analysis, data analytics, and other Operational Excellence experience, such as LEAN, DMAIC, Six Sigma.
• Excellent communication skills and a proven track record Influencing/building/promoting a culture of Quality and Excellence.
• Ability to apply risk management principles to decision making and operational priorities.
• Critical Thinking and Problem Solving skills
• Ability to closely collaborate and build relationships with internal and external stakeholders.

Other Requirements
Up to 15% Travel may be required

#LI-onsite

Pay Range:

$184,600 - $277,000

Disclosure Statement:

Flex Designation:

On-Site Designated

Flex Eligibility Status:

In this On-Site designated role, you will work five days per week on-site with ad hoc flexibility.  

Note: The Flex status for this position is subject to Vertex’s Policy on Flex @ Vertex Program and may be changed at any time.

#LI-Onsite

Company Information

Vertex is a global biotechnology company that invests in scientific innovation.

Vertex is committed to equal employment opportunity and non-discrimination for all employees and qualified applicants without regard to a person's race, color, sex, gender identity or expression, age, religion, national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, marital status, or any characteristic protected under applicable law. Vertex is an E-Verify Employer in the United States. Vertex will make reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with known disabilities, in accordance with applicable law.

Any applicant requiring an accommodation in connection with the hiring process and/or to perform the essential functions of the position for which the applicant has applied should make a request to the recruiter or hiring manager, or contact Talent Acquisition at ApplicationAssistance@vrtx.com