About Gilead Sciences

Gilead Sciences, Inc. is a leading biopharmaceutical company headquartered in Foster City, California, with a proven track record of advancing innovative medicines for more than three decades. Focused on creating a healthier world for all people, Gilead has achieved breakthroughs in treating life-threatening diseases, including HIV, viral hepatitis, COVID-19, cancer, and inflammatory diseases. Operating in over 35 countries worldwide, the company is committed to developing therapies that improve lives and ensure global access to cutting-edge treatments. At Gilead, collaboration, determination, and a relentless drive to innovate define the culture, making it a premier destination for ambitious professionals in the life sciences sector.

Role Overview

The Associate Director, PDM Business Process & Operational Excellence position in Foster City, California, is a pivotal leadership role within Gilead's Pharmaceutical Development and Manufacturing (PDM) organization. Reporting to the Senior Director of PDM Business Process & Operational Excellence, this role focuses on driving cross-functional process improvements and Operational Excellence (OpEx) initiatives across multiple PDM functions. This is not a site-specific manufacturing role but a strategic position emphasizing Chemistry, Manufacturing, and Control (CMC) innovation. Ideal candidates are process experts with strong facilitation skills, ready to lead transformative changes that enhance efficiency and outcomes in biopharmaceutical development.

Key Impact Areas

Success hinges on leveraging business process management tools strategically to map end-to-end processes, identify improvements, and implement OpEx methodologies like Lean and Six Sigma. This role demands interaction with the PDM Extended Leadership Team and fosters a community of continuous improvement.

Key Responsibilities

In this high-impact position, you will:

• Lead cross-functional business process mapping and OpEx initiatives, utilizing facilitation skills to gather subject matter expert (SME) input for designing practical, improved end-to-end processes.
• Provide dedicated support to ensure initiatives are delivered on time, within budget, and with effective stakeholder management.
• Interface directly with PDM Extended Leadership Team members and their teams to drive meaningful process enhancements.
• Apply strong analytical, communication, and influencing skills to solve complex problems and promote helpful change.
• Serve as an enthusiastic contributor to the broader PDM Operational Excellence community, championing innovation in CMC.

Qualifications & Requirements

Basic Qualifications

BS/BA with 10+ years of relevant experience, or MS/MA/MBA with 8+ years of experience in biopharma or related fields.

Preferred Qualifications

• Greenbelt certification in Lean and/or Six Sigma.
• Hands-on experience in one or more areas of Chemistry, Manufacturing, and Controls (CMC).
• Proven track record leading cross-functional biopharma strategic initiatives.
• Expertise in business process mapping with diverse stakeholders and SMEs, using tools like Signavio and Visio.
• Strong interpersonal and conflict resolution skills.
• Solid grasp of current biopharma industry trends.
• Exceptional verbal and written communication abilities to engage all organizational levels.
• Positive growth mindset and people leadership experience, including creating inclusion, developing talent, and empowering teams.

Gilead values leaders who model diversity, provide coaching, align teams to organizational goals, and remove barriers to success.

Benefits & Perks

Gilead Sciences offers a comprehensive compensation package for this Associate Director role, with a salary range of $182,070 to $235,620, determined by experience, qualifications, and other factors. Beyond competitive pay, employees enjoy:

• Robust health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
• Generous 401(k) matching and retirement savings options.
• Paid time off, family leave, and wellness programs.
• Professional development opportunities, including leadership training and tuition reimbursement.
• An inclusive culture emphasizing employee growth, empowerment, and work-life balance.

Career Growth

Joining Gilead as Associate Director opens doors to expansive career progression within a global biopharma leader. With exposure to PDM leadership and cross-functional initiatives, you'll build expertise in CMC and OpEx, positioning yourself for Senior Director roles or broader strategic positions. Gilead's commitment to developing talent through coaching, feedback, and skill-building ensures your aspirations are supported, fostering long-term success in HIV therapies, oncology, inflammatory diseases, and beyond.

Why Join Gilead

Gilead Sciences stands at the forefront of biopharmaceutical innovation, tackling humanity's biggest health challenges. By joining this Associate Director role in Foster City, you'll contribute to life-changing therapies for HIV, oncology, and inflammatory diseases while thriving in a collaborative, inclusive environment. With bold ambitions and a people-first culture, Gilead empowers you to make a direct impact on global health. Every team member plays a critical role in scientific breakthroughs, backed by exceptional leaders who prioritize inclusion, development, and empowerment.

Role FAQs

What is the focus of this role?

This role centers on cross-functional PDM process mapping and OpEx initiatives, not site-specific manufacturing.

What experience is required?

Minimum BS/BA +10 years or MS/MA/MBA +8 years; preferred CMC, Lean/Six Sigma, and process mapping expertise.

Where is the position located?

Foster City, California, at Gilead's headquarters.

What salary can I expect?

$182,070 - $235,620, based on qualifications.

Is leadership experience necessary?

Yes, with accountabilities in inclusion, talent development, and team empowerment.

This opportunity at Gilead Sciences is ideal for process excellence leaders passionate about biopharma innovation. Apply today to help create a healthier future.