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 breakthroughs in treating some of the world's most challenging diseases, including HIV, viral hepatitis, COVID-19, and cancer. Our innovative therapies have transformed lives, ensuring access to life-changing treatments across the globe. Headquartered in Foster City, California, Gilead employs thousands of passionate professionals united by a mission to advance scientific discovery and deliver impactful medicines. We are at the forefront of addressing HIV with groundbreaking antivirals, advancing oncology through targeted therapies, and tackling inflammatory diseases with novel immunomodulators. Joining Gilead means contributing to bold ambitions in a collaborative, inclusive environment where every team member drives progress.

Role Overview

The Director, Global External Manufacturing, Oral-Solid Dosage (OSD) position is a pivotal leadership role within Gilead's Pharmaceutical Development and Manufacturing (PDM) organization. Based in Foster City, California, this full-time role reports to the Manufacturing Operations group and oversees a team responsible for the seamless execution of manufacturing campaigns across Gilead's global network of external contract manufacturing organizations (CMOs). The ideal candidate will ensure uninterrupted supply of clinical and commercial OSD products while upholding the highest standards of cGMP compliance, regulatory adherence, and environmental health and safety. This position demands strategic partnership with cross-functional teams in Development, Quality, Regulatory, Analytical, Supply Chain, and Product Strategy to manage the full product lifecycle—from technology transfer and commercialization to routine supply and eventual sunset or divestiture.

Strategic Impact

As a key player in global supply chain resilience, you will shape tactical manufacturing strategies aligned with corporate goals, mitigate supply risks, and foster continuous improvement to enhance efficiency, quality, and sustainability.

Key Responsibilities

In this director-level role, you will lead with vision and precision to deliver Gilead's ambitious objectives. Core responsibilities include:

• Leading a high-performing team to execute manufacturing campaigns within the global external CMO network, ensuring compliance with cGMP, regulatory, and EHS standards.
• Developing and implementing tactical manufacturing strategies, managing supplier relationships, and driving CMO performance to meet Key Performance Indicators (KPIs).
• Collaborating intimately with Technical Development, Global Supply Chain, and internal manufacturing sites for successful technology transfer, process validation, and product launches.
• Proactively managing routine CMO operations, resolving complex issues such as deviations, OOS investigations, complaints, and change controls.
• Fostering continuous improvement initiatives to reduce costs, boost quality, and promote sustainable practices, while representing Gilead with regulatory agencies as needed.

Qualifications & Requirements

Gilead seeks a seasoned leader with a demonstrated track record in the biopharmaceutical industry. Essential qualifications include:

• 12+ years of progressive experience in oral solid dosage drug product manufacturing and supply chain execution.
• Deep expertise in supply risk management, cGMP principles, and worldwide regulatory requirements, including ICH guidelines.
• Strong understanding of the CMO landscape, with knowledge of capabilities for global drug product manufacturing.
• Proven leadership in managing, training, and mentoring teams, coupled with exceptional communication skills for senior-level interactions.
• Ability to travel internationally up to 10%, resolving complex situations with strategic insight.

A bachelor's degree in a relevant scientific or engineering discipline is required, with advanced degrees preferred.

Benefits & Perks

Gilead Sciences offers a premium compensation package designed to attract top talent. While salary is not disclosed, estimates for this director-level role in Foster City's biopharma sector range from $280,000 to $380,000 annually, with a 5-10% buffer for performance upside. Additional perks include comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage; robust 401(k) matching; generous PTO; and family leave benefits. Employees enjoy onsite fitness centers, wellness programs, and commuter assistance in Foster City.

Career Growth

At Gilead, people leaders are central to our culture of inclusion and empowerment. This role provides unparalleled opportunities for professional development, including leadership training, mentorship programs, and exposure to cross-functional projects. Advance your career by contributing to high-visibility initiatives in HIV therapies, oncology innovations, and inflammatory disease treatments, positioning yourself for executive roles within PDM or beyond.

Why Join Gilead

Gilead is more than a biopharma leader—it's a force for global health equity. Work on therapies that combat HIV, pioneer oncology breakthroughs, and address inflammatory diseases, all while thriving in Foster City's vibrant innovation hub. Our relentless drive, collaborative spirit, and commitment to employee aspirations create an environment where you can make a direct, meaningful impact. With a focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion, Gilead empowers every voice to help create possible, together.

Role FAQs

Q: What is the travel requirement?
A: Up to 10% international travel, including overnights.

Q: Is prior CMO management experience required?
A: Yes, expertise in the CMO landscape and supply chain execution is essential.

Q: How does this role support Gilead's mission?
A: By ensuring reliable supply of life-changing therapies for HIV, cancer, and beyond.

Q: What makes this role unique?
A: Strategic oversight of global OSD manufacturing with cross-functional leadership at the forefront of biopharma innovation.

Q: Are there relocation benefits?
A: Gilead offers competitive relocation packages for qualifying candidates.