Director, Analytical Project Management

The Director, Project Management (ARD India) is responsible for leading end-to-end technical project and portfolio management across ARD India, ensuring seamless execution of analytical development programs aligned with global ARD priorities.This role drives technical excellence in project governance, planning, resource optimization, and cross-functional coordination across global and site stakeholders, enabling timely, compliant, and cost-effective delivery of development milestones.The position acts as a strategic bridge between global ARD project management, scientific teams, and site operations, strengthening execution discipline, transparency, and decision-making across the portfolio.

Key Accountabilities1. Portfolio & Project Management LeadershipLead the ARD India portfolio of Analytical Project Leads (APLs) analytical development projects across early and late phase programs spanning across the modalities, viz., oral, xRNA, radio-ligand therapy, parenterals.Ensure robust project planning, tracking, and delivery in alignment with global timelines and regulatory requirementsDrive proactive risk identification, mitigation strategies, and escalation mechanismsImplement standardized project management methodologies, tools, and best practices2. Governance & Decision FrameworkEstablish and lead project governance structures (reviews, portfolio boards, dashboards)Provide data-driven insights to support strategic decision-making and prioritizationEnsure transparency of project status, risks, milestones, and resource utilizationAlign governance processes with global ARD project management standards3. Cross-functional Integration & Stakeholder ManagementAct as key interface between ARD scientific teams, TRD, global project leaders, and cross-functional partnersEnsure alignment of analytical development activities with overall program and CMC strategiesFacilitate effective communication across geographies (India, Switzerland, China)Strengthen collaboration with functions such as Regulatory, Quality, Supply, and External Partners4. Resource & Capacity ManagementLead demand and capacity planning across ARD project portfolioOptimize resource allocation to ensure efficient utilization and delivery against prioritiesPartner with functional heads to balance portfolio demands and capability developmentDrive workforce planning aligned with future pipeline needs5. Operational Excellence & Digital EnablementDrive continuous improvement in project execution through lean principles and digital toolsImplement data analytics and dashboarding to enhance performance visibilityStandardize reporting, KPIs, and performance tracking across projectsPromote automation and digitalization in project management processes6. People & Capability LeadershipLead, mentor, and develop a team of Analytical Project LeadsBuild strong project management capabilities within ARD IndiaFoster a high-performance culture focused on accountability, collaboration, and innovationSupport talent development, succession planning, and capability buildingMinimum Requirements PhD / Master’s in Analytical Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or Chemistry15–18+ years in Analytical R&D / Pharmaceutical DevelopmentProven experience in project / portfolio management within drug developmentStrong understanding of end-to-end development lifecycle (early to commercialization)Experience in global, matrixed organizations with cross-functional leadership