Head of Manufacturing Strategy and Operations at Gilead Sciences

About Gilead Sciences

Gilead Sciences is a biopharmaceutical powerhouse dedicated to creating a healthier world for all. For over 35 years, Gilead has pioneered breakthroughs in HIV, viral hepatitis, COVID-19, oncology, and inflammatory diseases. Our innovative therapies have transformed lives, from life-saving HIV treatments like Biktarvy to cutting-edge oncology solutions and novel inflammatory disease modulators. Headquartered in Foster City, California, Gilead operates a global network, relentlessly advancing scientific discovery to ensure access to therapies worldwide. As a leader in biotech jobs, Gilead fosters collaboration, determination, and bold ambition, making it the ideal place for pharma careers in life sciences.

Role Overview

The Head of Manufacturing Strategy and Operations is a newly created, high-impact leadership role reporting directly to the SVP of Manufacturing and serving on the Manufacturing Leadership Team. Based in Foster City, California, you will design and build a centralized organization supporting 1,400 global employees across a complex manufacturing network. This full-time position manages 10-20 team members, including 4-5 direct reports, driving strategic initiatives for Gilead's clinical and commercial portfolio. If you're an expert in healthcare engineering and manufacturing strategy, this role offers the chance to lead digital transformation, implement modern systems like Lean Manufacturing, and align with Gilead's 2030 ambitions in HIV, oncology, and inflammatory diseases.

Key Responsibilities

In this pivotal pharma career opportunity, your responsibilities include:

• Hiring, mentoring, and developing a high-performing team while setting performance goals and fostering a culture of quality, safety, and Gilead values.
• Crafting a digital strategy in partnership with PDM, IT, OT, and data analytics teams to modernize manufacturing operations.
• Defining and implementing a state-of-the-art manufacturing management system, coordinating Lean Manufacturing efforts network-wide.
• Leading organizational strategy, periodic reviews, and execution of key projects in collaboration with PDM Network Strategy teams.
• Establishing metrics for operational visibility, resource models, and multi-year budgeting for operational and capital expenses.
• Managing centralized resources in G.Plan (Planisware), including templates, scenarios, and demand-supply planning.
• Overseeing procurement, logistics, and CMO interactions, while scanning the external environment for innovation roadmaps.

Strategic Leadership

As a strategic thought partner, you will champion cross-functional ecosystems, agile teams, and Gilead's manufacturing innovation roadmap, ensuring alignment with global product, pipeline, and people goals.

Qualifications & Requirements

The ideal candidate brings broad GMP manufacturing experience in biopharma, with a proven track record in matrixed organizations and cross-functional collaboration across PDM and Gilead functions. Excellent communication skills are essential for engaging internal and external stakeholders. Success in talent management, performance accountability, and building inclusive cultures is key. A strategic mindset for digital transformation, resource planning, and operational excellence will set you apart in this biotech leadership role.

Benefits & Perks

Gilead Sciences offers premium benefits tailored for top talent in life sciences careers:

• Competitive salary estimated at $350,000-$500,000 USD, with performance-based incentives and equity.
• Comprehensive health coverage, including medical, dental, vision, and wellness programs.
• Generous 401(k) matching, tuition reimbursement, and family leave policies.
• Flexible work options, onsite fitness centers, and employee stock purchase plans.
• Access to cutting-edge resources in Foster City, CA, supporting work-life balance and professional growth.

Career Growth

At Gilead, people leaders drive culture and employee empowerment. This role positions you for executive advancement within Manufacturing and PDM, with opportunities to influence Gilead's 2030 vision. Benefit from robust talent management, leadership training, and exposure to global initiatives in HIV, oncology, and inflammatory diseases. Join a network of ambitious professionals in pharma careers, where your impact scales worldwide.

Why Join Gilead

Gilead stands out in biotech jobs by combining mission-driven work with a supportive environment. Contribute to therapies combating HIV, advancing oncology treatments, and addressing inflammatory diseases that affect millions. In Foster City, California, enjoy a collaborative culture emphasizing inclusion, development, and innovation. As Head of Manufacturing Strategy and Operations, you'll shape the future of global manufacturing, delivering life-changing medicines and realizing bold ambitions together.

Role FAQs

What is the reporting structure?

This role reports to the SVP of Manufacturing and is a member of the Manufacturing Leadership Team.

What team size will I manage?

You will oversee 10-20 employees, with 4-5 direct reports, building a centralized function for global operations.

Is relocation assistance provided?

Gilead offers competitive relocation support for key hires to Foster City, California.

What experience is required?

Broad GMP manufacturing expertise, matrixed leadership, and strategic planning in biopharma are essential.

How does this role support Gilead's mission?

By centralizing strategy and operations, you'll ensure efficient delivery of therapies for HIV, oncology, and inflammatory diseases globally.