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. Headquartered in Foster City, California, the company relentlessly develops innovative therapies that improve lives and ensure global access to cutting-edge treatments. Gilead's work in oncology focuses on advancing cancer immunotherapy and tumor intrinsic cell death modalities, while its legacy in HIV and inflammatory diseases continues to set new standards in patient care. With a collaborative culture and bold ambitions, Gilead empowers its teams to drive scientific innovation and make a tangible difference.

Role Overview

The Gilead Asset Team Leader - Oncology position in Foster City, California, is a strategic leadership role overseeing the overall development strategy for multiple molecules, typically 4-5 programs, in biologic modalities such as cancer immunotherapy or tumor intrinsic cell death. This leader manages early portfolio strategies from Phase I through proof of concept, ensuring alignment with Gilead's enterprise goals. As a people leader, you will foster an inclusive environment where cross-functional teams thrive, driving the discovery and development of life-changing therapies in oncology. This full-time role demands an enterprise mindset, exceptional decision-making, and a passion for advancing Gilead's mission in oncology, HIV, and inflammatory diseases.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Asset Leadership

Lead Gilead asset teams in crafting and executing cohesive strategies, assessing resources, managing timelines, and mitigating risks to align with broader organizational objectives.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

Enable seamless collaboration across functions, promoting transparent information flow and shared vision for asset success, while partnering with internal and external stakeholders.

Accountability for Delivery

Own timely milestone achievement, monitoring against Target Product Profile (TPP), Asset Plan, and Lifecycle Plan (LCP), with strict adherence to budgets and schedules alongside the Project Manager.

Integrated Strategy Development

Develop comprehensive global strategies covering product development, manufacturing, commercialization, and lifecycle management, adapting to evolving clinical, regulatory, and commercial landscapes.

Governance and Team Leadership

Facilitate high-impact decisions, conduct scenario planning, and present objectively to senior leadership and Portfolio Committee. Build high-performing, inclusive teams with clear roles and accountability.

Qualifications & Requirements

Candidates must possess an advanced scientific, medical, or commercial background with deep expertise in drug development, particularly in oncology therapeutic areas. Translational drug development experience is essential, complemented by proven cross-functional leadership in global projects. You should demonstrate the ability to lead multidisciplinary teams, integrating discovery, development, regulatory, and commercial elements across the asset lifecycle—even without direct authority. Exceptional communication, organizational, and decision-making skills are required, with a track record of influencing senior leaders and delivering strategic value in pharmaceutical or biotech environments. Experience in biologic modalities like cancer immunotherapy is highly valued.

Benefits & Perks

Gilead Sciences offers a premium compensation package tailored to attract top talent. Enjoy a competitive salary estimated between $285,000 and $380,000 annually, plus performance bonuses. Comprehensive benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance, a robust 401(k) with company matching, generous paid time off, and flexible work arrangements. Employees receive professional development opportunities, tuition reimbursement, and wellness programs. As part of Gilead's commitment to employee experience, people leaders drive an inclusive culture with resources for growth and empowerment.

Career Growth

At Gilead, career advancement is a priority. This Asset Team Leader role positions you for expanded influence in therapeutic area strategy, business development, and senior leadership. Collaborate with Therapeutic Area Leaders to shape disease area strategies from discovery to lifecycle planning. Gilead's focus on people leadership ensures you develop skills in fostering high-performing teams, making this an ideal launchpad for executive roles in biopharma. With ongoing training, mentorship, and exposure to global initiatives, you'll contribute to groundbreaking work in oncology, HIV, and inflammatory diseases while building a lasting legacy.

Why Join Gilead

Joining Gilead means becoming part of a mission-driven team tackling humanity's biggest health challenges. Your leadership will directly impact the development of therapies that transform lives, from oncology innovations to HIV treatments and solutions for inflammatory diseases. In Foster City, California, you'll work in a collaborative, innovative environment with access to state-of-the-art facilities and a diverse, ambitious workforce. Gilead values every employee's role in scientific discovery, offering not just a job, but a platform to create possible—together. With a strong emphasis on inclusion, development, and empowerment, Gilead is where passionate leaders make their mark.

Role FAQs

What is the focus of this oncology role?

This role centers on biologic modalities like cancer immunotherapy and tumor intrinsic cell death, managing 4-5 early-stage programs from Phase I to proof of concept.

What experience is required?

Advanced expertise in drug development, translational experience, and cross-functional leadership in pharma/biotech are essential.

Where is the position located?

The role is based in Foster City, California, United States.

What are the salary expectations?

Estimated at $285,000 - $380,000 USD yearly, based on biopharma sector rates with a buffer.

How does this role support Gilead's mission?

By leading asset strategies, you'll advance therapies in oncology, HIV, and inflammatory diseases, aligning with Gilead's goal of global health impact.