About Gilead Sciences

Gilead Sciences is a leading biopharmaceutical company dedicated to creating a healthier world for all people. For over 35 years, Gilead has pioneered therapies for some of the world's most challenging diseases, including HIV, viral hepatitis, COVID-19, and cancer. With a relentless focus on innovation, the company develops life-changing treatments that improve lives and ensure global access to cutting-edge medicines. Gilead's work extends to oncology and inflammatory diseases, where breakthrough therapies are transforming patient outcomes. Headquartered in the US with a strong global presence, Gilead fosters a culture of collaboration, determination, and excellence, making it a top destination for life sciences professionals.

Role Overview

The Assoc Director, R&D Quality position at Gilead Sciences in Uxbridge, United Kingdom, is a pivotal leadership role within the Research & Development (R&D) quality team. This position demands a strategic thinker with deep expertise in GxP compliance to drive audit programs, inspection readiness, and quality improvements across R&D functions. Reporting into senior quality leadership, you will serve as the compliance lead for Kite R&D programs and vendors, influencing cross-functional teams to uphold the highest standards in drug development. With 40-50% travel, this full-time role offers the chance to shape Gilead's quality culture while contributing to therapies in HIV, oncology, and inflammatory diseases.

Key Impact Areas

In this role, you will lead internal audits, manage CAPAs, and prepare for regulatory inspections, ensuring Gilead's R&D operations meet global GxP standards like GCP, GCLP, and GPV. Your work directly supports the drug development lifecycle from early research to post-marketing, safeguarding product quality and patient safety.

Key Responsibilities

As Assoc Director, R&D Quality, your core duties include:

• Leading and executing internal GxP audits aligned with annual and quarterly programs.
• Managing routine and complex audits across multiple projects, ensuring timely completion.
• Defining audit plans for contract auditors, providing training and oversight.
• Evaluating SOPs, systems, and documentation for regulatory compliance and audit readiness.
• Developing and managing CAPAs and deviations with cross-functional collaboration.
• Supporting Veeva QMS for record development and action plan oversight.
• Leading inspection readiness, including training, playbook creation, and SME preparation.
• Coordinating regulatory inspections and post-inspection follow-ups.
• Analyzing inspection trends to enhance quality planning.
• Serving as compliance lead for R&D functions, programs, and vendors.
• Conducting global risk assessments and advising on GxP requirements.
• Delivering specialized GxP training to promote a quality culture.

Leadership Expectations

Provide matrixed leadership to project teams, potentially managing direct reports. Foster talent development, set clear goals, and contribute to resourcing and budgeting while championing quality across R&D.

Qualifications & Requirements

To succeed in this role, candidates need:

• BA/BS or advanced degree in life sciences or related field.
• Significant experience in biopharma quality, compliance, audits, inspections, and CAPA management.
• Preferred: Expertise in GCP, GCLP, and GPV auditing/inspections.
• Deep knowledge of QMS operations and GxP standards (GCP, GLP/GCLP, GPV, etc.).
• Strong strategic, analytical, and data assessment skills.
• Proven ability to lead without authority and influence cross-functionally.
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, negotiation, and conflict resolution skills.
• Ability to travel 40-50%.

Gilead values diverse talent and equal opportunity employment.

Benefits & Perks

Gilead Sciences offers a premium compensation package, including:

• Competitive salary estimated at £95,000-£160,000, based on biopharma sector rates in Uxbridge with a 5-10% buffer.
• Performance-based bonuses and equity incentives.
• Comprehensive health insurance, pension contributions, and wellness programs.
• Generous paid time off, family leave, and flexible working arrangements.
• Professional development budgets, leadership training, and tuition reimbursement.
• Employee stock purchase plans and retirement savings matching.

Career Growth

At Gilead, career progression is a priority. As a People Leader, you will develop top talent, coach direct reports, and contribute to resourcing strategies. This role positions you for advancement into senior quality leadership, global compliance, or R&D operations. Gilead's commitment to employee aspirations includes clear goal-setting, performance coaching, and opportunities to lead high-impact projects in HIV, oncology, and inflammatory disease programs.

Why Join Gilead

Joining Gilead means becoming part of a mission-driven team tackling global health challenges. Work on groundbreaking therapies for HIV, oncology, and inflammatory diseases while thriving in an inclusive environment that values innovation and quality. In Uxbridge, UK, you'll collaborate with top talent, influence strategic initiatives, and make a tangible difference in patients' lives. Gilead's culture empowers every employee to create possible, together.

Role FAQs

Q: What is the travel requirement?
A: Approximately 40-50% travel for audits, inspections, and meetings.

Q: Is management experience required?
A: Matrixed leadership is essential; direct report management possible.

Q: What GxP areas are focused?
A: Primarily GCP, GCLP, GPV, with emphasis on R&D compliance.

Q: How does this role support Gilead's mission?
A: By ensuring quality in R&D, enabling safe delivery of therapies for HIV, cancer, and more.

Q: What tools are used?
A: Veeva QMS, audit tracking systems, and compliance metrics platforms.