Bachelor's degree in computer science, data engineering, information systems, bioinformatics, or related field; advanced degree preferred.
10+ years of experience in data engineering, software, digital platforms, ML/AI, or IT.
Proven track record in developing and executing technical strategies.
Demonstrated ability to lead direct reports and manage external partners effectively.
Strong technical expertise in cloud-based data architecture and engineering, particularly AWS; experience with data modeling, ETL/ELT processes, and integration.
Responsibilities
Develop and execute a comprehensive data strategy aligned with Terrana’s strategic goals.
Lead and manage a multidisciplinary team, fostering a culture of collaboration and technical excellence.
Translate stakeholder needs into clear, actionable projects with timelines and specifications.
Enhance Terrana's data architecture, ensuring adherence to FAIR data principles and effective integrations.
Collaborate with scientists and engineers to ensure successful deployment and performance of software and ML models.
Oversee custom software development, balancing build, buy, or partner decisions for optimal outcomes.
Ensure IT services are reliable and secure, managing internal and external resources effectively.
Benefits
Opportunities for professional growth and development.
Work in a dynamic and innovative environment.
Collaborative team culture emphasizing ownership and excellence.
Engagement with cutting-edge technologies in data and AI.
Full Job Description
THE ROLE
Terrana is seeking a Director, Data & Technology to develop and lead the company-wide capabilities that convert data, software, ML/AI and IT into dependable scientific, operational and business outcomes. Reporting to the VP, Strategy and Operations, the Director will develop and execute an integrated strategy for Data Engineering, IT, software and ML/AI development and deployment. The position will lead 3-5 direct reports and coordinate external vendors, consultants and contractors, set clear priorities, and drive delivery of high-quality outcomes.
Functional Scope:
Data Engineering-establishment and governance of FAIR data, resilient data systems, and cost-effective infrastructure
IT-management of business systems, access, cybersecurity, and vendors
Software and ML/AI Deployment-identification, prioritization and selection of highest impact tools, productionization, integration, support, and adoption
Targeted Software Development -of bespoke,internal tools; workflow automation and integrations for high-value company requirements
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Develop and execute a company-wide data strategy and associated execution plan in support of Terrana's strategic priorities
Lead, coach and manage a multidisciplinary team of 3-5 direct reports, with additional oversight of contractors, consultants and service providers. Establish clear roles, goals, development plans and performance expectations, and create a culture of ownership, collaboration, technical excellence and reliable delivery
Convert stakeholder needs into well-defined projects; ensuring work is delivered on time and to specification
Lead the evolution of Terrana's data architecture and engineering capabilities, including cloud data platforms, data models, pipelines,APIs and integrations across all systems. Ensure FAIR data
Establish and enforce appropriate data governance, security and lifecycle policies and practices
Partner with software engineers, ML/AI scientists, computational biologists and domain scientists to deploy software and models into dependable production workflows. Oversee integration, testing, validation, versioning, CI/CD or MLOps, observability and ongoing performance management
Oversee bespoke software development and workflow automation where required, following clear build/buy/partner evaluations
Provide reliable and secure IT services through internal resources and external providers, including identity and access, endpoints, business applications, service support, and cybersecurity
Serve as the primary senior-leadership interface for the Data function, engaging leadership on strategy, execution progress, decisions, tradeoffs, risks and resource needs, and establishment of steering and decision forums
Monitor, troubleshoot and optimize systems and services
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE & QUALIFICATIONS
Bachelor's degree in computer science, data engineering, information systems, bioinformatics or related discipline; an advanced degree or equivalent professional experience is preferred
10+ years of progressive experience across data engineering, software, digital platforms, ML/AI enablement or IT
Demonstrated success developing and executing a technical strategy
Proven ability to manage direct reports, as well as consultants and service providers
Strong technical grounding in cloud-based data architecture and engineering, including data modeling, databases, ETL/ELT pipelines, APIs, integrations, accesscontrolsand observability; AWS experience is preferred
Experience deploying and operating production software and ML/AI-enabled workflows
Working knowledge of enterprise IT operations, cybersecurity, identity and access management,andSaaS administration
Experience supporting scientific, R&Dor other technically complex workflows
Consistenttrack recordof delivering high-quality outcomes on time and to specification
Excellent leadership presence, communication and stakeholder-management skills
Preferred Experience:
Experience with Benchling or another LIMS
Experience applying generative AI, workflow automation or AI-native tools
LOCATION: Durham, NC (strongly preferred) or Cambridge, MA
About Flagship Pioneering
Flagship Pioneering is a life sciences innovation enterprise that conceives, creates, resources, and develops first-in-category life sciences companies. The firm operates through its Flagship Labs unit, which is a dedicated innovation foundry that invents and launches transformative companies. Flagship Pioneering has created over 100 scientific ventures, resulting in over $34 billion in aggregate value, 500+ issued patents, and more than 50 clinical trials for novel therapeutic agents. The firm's portfolio includes companies in the fields of therapeutics, health technologies, and sustainability. Flagship Pioneering was founded in 2000 and is headquartered in Cambridge, Massachusetts.
