Director, Chemistry Technology

Job Description

General Summary:

Vertex is a global biotechnology company that invests in scientific innovation. The Digital, Technology and Engineering (DTE) Research, Pre-Clinical, Manufacturing and Supply (RPMS) group's mission is to improve the lives of patients through digital, data, and technology innovation.

Vertex is in a transformational period where we are accelerating our capabilities, technology and data to augment our scientific mission and enable Vertex to grow in scale; ensuring we remain on the forefront of science, medicine and technology.

We are seeking a dynamic and experienced Director, Chemistry Solutions to join our team and drive our digital transformation initiatives.

The Director, Chemistry Solutions at Vertex Pharmaceuticals will support the Research & Pre-Clinical Science team by overseeing chemistry data and technology projects and integrating innovative digital solutions into our research processes globally. This role involves leading teams of professionals to drive impactful digital chemistry initiatives that align with Vertex's scientific and business objectives. This position requires a strategic thinker who can balance technical expertise with leadership skills to drive impactful digital transformation initiatives and support the organization's scientific and business objectives.

Key Duties and Responsibilities:

Vision and Strategy

• Develop and execute the data and technology strategy for chemistry, ensuring alignment with business objectives to deliver a digital transformation in the pace and velocity of new medicine discovery through prediction and real-time insight creation.
• Support digital transformation initiatives to enhance chemical research and development across the organization, ensuring Vertex remains at the forefront of technological advancements.
• Identify and implement innovative digital technologies to improve research capabilities, ensuring scalability and future readiness.
• Collaborate with senior leadership and cross-functional teams to align global digital chemistry strategies with business goals and scientific research needs.

Operational Execution

• Oversee the implementation and management of data and technology solutions that integrate insights across the Vertex research network from platforms and tools to power and enhance chemistry research.
• Support the scalability, reliability, and security of digital chemistry systems to support Vertex's growth and compliance with industry standards.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate digital solutions into business processes and scientific workflows, enhancing operational efficiency and research accessibility.
• Drive digital transformation initiatives such as predictive molecular design to accelerate the design, make and test cycle in new medicine discovery.
• Ensure data and technology solutions are developed on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards.
• Ensure relevant adoption of cloud-based solutions, IoT-enabled manufacturing, and automation technologies improve efficiency, scalability, and cost-effectiveness.
• Establish metrics and monitoring systems to track the performance and effectiveness of digital chemistry initiatives.
• Leverage high-performance computing and digital tools to accelerate chemical research activities including computational chemistry and the application of data science and AIML.

Leadership

• Lead high-performing, diverse teams of professionals, fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and accountability.
• Create a culture of inclusion, diversity, and equity where everyone can do their best work and feels valued.
• Communicate effectively with senior leadership and stakeholders to align on strategic priorities, project progress, and the impact of digital chemistry initiatives.
• Represent the RPMS group in cross-functional meetings and initiatives, advocating for digital-driven approaches and ensuring alignment with broader organizational goals.

Knowledge and Skills:

• Deep understanding and experience of designing and implementing data and technology solutions in life sciences research and development.
• Proficiency in data management and automation principles and methodologies.
• Proficiency in rapidly adopting and implementing emerging technology (e.g. AI/ML, agentic).
• Strong strategic thinking and problem-solving skills, with the ability to develop and execute long-term digital chemistry strategies.
• Expertise in digital research, laboratory management, digital integration, and high-performance computing with a deep understanding of best practices and industry standards.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to use data to inform decisions.
• Strong leadership and team management skills, with the ability to inspire and motivate a diverse team.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex technical concepts to a variety of audiences.
• Proven track record of leading and managing teams in a complex, fast-paced environment.

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Computer Science or a related field; advanced degree preferred.
• Minimum of 8+ years of experience in chemical research, computational chemistry, chemical engineering, IT, digital and technology or related roles within the biotechnology or pharmaceutical industry.
• Proven track record of leading digital transformation initiatives and implementing digital chemistry strategies.
• Extensive experience with digital research infrastructure, chemistry laboratory activities, and advanced predictive and computational chemistry technologies.
• Willingness to travel up to 10% to support business objectives.
• Experience with data science, machine learning and artificial intelligence applications in chemical research, including the ability to integrate these technologies into digital chemistry strategies.
• Experience with computational chemistry, data analysis and visualization tools with the ability to create compelling solutions that support data-driven decision-making.
• Advanced certifications in product, agile, software engineering, cloud technologies, or leadership preferred.

Pay Range:

$190,400 - $285,600

Disclosure Statement:

The range provided is based on what we believe is a reasonable estimate for the base salary pay range for this job at the time of posting. This role is eligible for an annual bonus and annual equity awards. Some roles may also be eligible for overtime pay, in accordance with federal and state requirements. Actual base salary pay will be based on a number of factors, including skills, competencies, experience, and other job-related factors permitted by law.

At Vertex, our Total Rewards offerings also include inclusive market-leading benefits to meet our employees wherever they are in their career, financial, family and wellbeing journey while providing flexibility and resources to support their growth and aspirations. From medical, dental and vision benefits to generous paid time off (including a week-long company shutdown in the Summer and the Winter), educational assistance programs including student loan repayment, a generous commuting subsidy, matching charitable donations, 401(k) and so much more.

Flex Designation:

Hybrid-Eligible Or On-Site Eligible

Flex Eligibility Status:

In this Hybrid-Eligible role, you can choose to be designated as:

1. Hybrid: work remotely up to two days per week; or select

2. On-Site: work five days per week on-site with ad hoc flexibility.

Note: The Flex status for this position is subject to Vertex's Policy on Flex @ Vertex Program and may be changed at any time.

Company Information

Vertex is a global biotechnology company that invests in scientific innovation.

Vertex is committed to equal employment opportunity and non-discrimination for all employees and qualified applicants without regard to a person's race, color, sex, gender identity or expression, age, religion, national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, marital status, or any characteristic protected under applicable law. Vertex is an E-Verify Employer in the United States. Vertex will make reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with known disabilities, in accordance with applicable law.

Any applicant requiring an accommodation in connection with the hiring process and/or to perform the essential functions of the position for which the applicant has applied should make a request to the recruiter or hiring manager, or contact Talent Acquisition at ...