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 devastating diseases, including HIV, viral hepatitis, COVID-19, and cancer. The company's innovative therapies have delivered a cure for hepatitis C, revolutionary advancements in HIV treatment and prevention, and significant progress in oncology and inflammatory diseases. Headquartered in Foster City, California, Gilead operates globally, ensuring access to life-changing medicines through relentless innovation, collaboration, and a commitment to patient outcomes.

Gilead's mission drives every aspect of its operations, from research and development to commercial distribution. With a robust pipeline addressing unmet medical needs in virology, oncology, and inflammation, Gilead continues to set bold ambitions. Employees at Gilead are empowered to make direct impacts, supported by a culture that values inclusion, development, and bold leadership.

Role Overview

The Senior Director, Quality Assurance - Distribution plays a pivotal role in Gilead's global supply chain, ensuring GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) and GDP (Good Distribution Practice) compliance for products across the US, Canada, and LATAM markets. Reporting to the GPD&A leadership team, this position is responsible for developing and harmonizing QA strategies that safeguard product integrity from distribution to patients. Based in Foster City, California, this full-time leadership role demands strategic vision, exceptional people leadership, and hands-on expertise in managing complex QA operations within a global commercial network.

This senior leader will drive cohesive QA processes, mentor high-performing teams, and interface with regulatory bodies and distribution partners. With Gilead's focus on HIV therapies, oncology innovations, and treatments for inflammatory diseases, this role ensures that every product reaches patients safely and compliantly, supporting the company's mission to confront major public health challenges.

Key Responsibilities

The Senior Director will spearhead QA operations with a focus on strategic excellence and operational efficiency. Core duties include:

• Serving as a key member of the GPD&A Leadership Team to implement effective QA processes and develop medium- to long-term strategies aligned with Gilead's quality organization goals.
• Coaching and mentoring direct reports to foster independence, performance, and a safe, inclusive work environment.
• Managing financial budgets, resources, and workloads to meet timelines, monitor KPIs, and track project milestones.
• Acting as a senior QA advisor to in-country and cluster QA leads on interpreting local and regional regulatory requirements for Gilead products.
• Liaising with distribution partners in US, Canada, and LATAM on escalations, critical issues, and business model changes.
• Interfacing with regulatory agencies, representing Gilead during inspections and authorities interactions.
• Leading product recall readiness, complex investigations, and CAPA implementation across regions.
• Collaborating cross-functionally to introduce standards, processes, and procedures for in-country QA operations.

Qualifications & Requirements

To succeed in this role, candidates need a proven track record in biopharmaceutical QA, particularly in distribution. Essential qualifications include:

• Advanced degree in Pharmacy, Life Sciences, Engineering, or related field preferred; Bachelor's required.
• 15+ years of experience in QA operations, with at least 10 years in global distribution networks and GMP/GDP compliance.
• Demonstrated excellence in people leadership, strategic planning, and influencing skills across multicultural teams.
• Hands-on experience supporting multiple QA models, governance, and regulatory interactions in US, Canada, LATAM, or similar markets.
• Strong analytical skills for leading investigations, CAPAs, and risk assessments.
• Ability to travel regionally as needed and thrive in a fast-paced, matrixed organization.

Gilead values leaders who embody determination, collaboration, and a passion for patient impact.

Benefits & Perks

Gilead Sciences offers a premium compensation package designed to attract top talent. While salary is competitive (estimated $280,000 - $380,000 USD annually based on sector benchmarks), benefits include:

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage with low employee contributions.
• 401(k) retirement savings with generous company matching.
• Unlimited PTO policy, paid parental leave, and family support programs.
• Wellness initiatives, including gym memberships, mental health resources, and onsite fitness centers.
• Stock purchase plans and performance bonuses tied to company success.

Career Growth

At Gilead, career advancement is a priority. As a people leader, you'll drive cultural evolution and employee development. The company invests in leadership training, tuition reimbursement, and global mobility opportunities. High performers often progress to executive roles within Quality, Supply Chain, or R&D, contributing to Gilead's next wave of innovations in HIV, oncology, and inflammatory diseases.

Why Join Gilead

Joining Gilead means becoming part of a team that's cured hepatitis C, transformed HIV care, and advanced cancer therapies. In Foster City, you'll collaborate with world-class scientists and leaders in a supportive environment that prioritizes inclusion and bold ambitions. Make a tangible difference in patients' lives while enjoying California coastal living, cutting-edge facilities, and a culture of empowerment.

Role FAQs

What is the primary focus of this role?

Ensuring GMP/GDP compliance and QA strategies for distribution in US, Canada, and LATAM.

Is travel required?

Yes, regional travel to support operations and partners.

What experience level is needed?

Senior leadership with 10+ years in biopharma QA distribution.

How does this role contribute to Gilead's mission?

By safeguarding product quality for therapies in HIV, oncology, and inflammation, ensuring global access.

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