Director of External Manufacturing - Oncology

Merck Group$145K — $218K *
Pharmaceuticals & Biotech
8 - 10 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Life Sciences, Engineering, Supply Chain, Pharmacy, or related field.
  • 8+ years of experience in pharmaceutical manufacturing or related areas.
  • Experience leading complex, cross-functional teams in a global context.
  • Strong understanding of GMP regulations and supply chain operations.
  • Familiarity with oncology, specialty care, biologics, or regulated products.

Responsibilities

  • Drive supply reliability and quality performance from external manufacturing partners.
  • Lead cross-functional Virtual Plant Teams to ensure product availability.
  • Manage relationships with Contract Manufacturing Organizations (CMOs).
  • Oversee performance through KPIs and structured Performance Review Meetings.
  • Proactively address supply risks and lead crisis response initiatives.
  • Contribute to product lifecycle activities, including launches and technology transfers.
  • Represent the function in cross-functional governance forums.

Benefits

  • Health insurance coverage.
  • Paid time off (PTO) provisions.
  • Retirement contributions.
  • Possibility of sales or performance-based bonuses.
Full Job Description
Location: The location for this role is the Boston area.

Your Role

At the intersection of science, supply, and patient impact, this role carries direct accountability for ensuring that life-changing oncology therapies reach the patients who need them. As Director of External Manufacturing for the Rare Tumors portfolio, you will serve as the operational authority for a network of external manufacturing partners, driving supply reliability, quality performance, and strategic execution across a complex, cross-functional environment.

In this pivotal role, you will lead cross-functional Virtual Plant Teams - bringing together Supply Chain, Quality, Procurement, Finance, Regulatory, Commercial, and Technical Operations - to safeguard uninterrupted product supply. You will own the end-to-end relationship with assigned Contract Manufacturing Organizations (CMOs), maintaining executive-level partnerships while holding partners accountable to agreed performance standards through structured Performance Review Meetings and KPI frameworks.

You will proactively manage supply risk, lead crisis response when needed, and drive mitigation strategies that protect business continuity. Beyond day-to-day operations, you will contribute to product lifecycle activities including launches, technology transfers, and validation campaigns, while supporting the strategic expansion of the Rare Tumors franchise. You will also provide operational input to governance forums and represent the function within cross-functional oncology leadership teams, shaping the future direction of the external manufacturing network in the Americas region.

Who You Are

Minimum Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Life Sciences, Engineering, Supply Chain, Pharmacy, or a related discipline.
  • 8+ years of experience in pharmaceutical manufacturing, external manufacturing, supply chain management, technical operations, or CMO management within a regulated environment.
  • Demonstrated experience leading complex, cross-functional stakeholder environments across global or regional organizational structures.
  • Strong working knowledge of GMP regulations, pharmaceutical manufacturing processes, and end-to-end supply chain operations.
  • Experience working with oncology, specialty care, biologics, or highly regulated pharmaceutical products.


Preferred Qualifications:
  • Proven ability to lead and influence without formal authority across matrixed, cross-functional organizations.
  • Strong stakeholder management skills with a track record of building and sustaining executive-level external partnerships.
  • Demonstrated capability in strategic thinking, data-driven decision-making, and delivering measurable operational performance improvements.
  • Experience supporting product launches, technology transfers, or lifecycle management projects within an external manufacturing context.
  • Ability to navigate ambiguity, manage competing priorities, and deliver results in a dynamic, high-stakes environment.


US Pay Range for this position - $145,800 - $218,600

The offer range represents the anticipated low and high end of the base pay compensation for this position. The actual compensation offered will be determined by factors such as location, level of experience, education, skills, and other job-related factors. Position may be eligible for sales or performance-based bonuses. Benefits offered by the Company include health insurance, paid time off (PTO), retirement contributions, and other perquisites. For more information click here.

About Merck Group

Merck Group Careers

There has never been a more opportune time to join Merck Group, a leading science and technology company in healthcare, life science, and performance materials. Merck Group offers a plethora of job opportunities that cater to a variety of skills and professional aspirations, making it an ideal environment for both seasoned experts and those at the start of their career journey.

Work You’ll Do

At Merck Group, every team member contributes to breakthrough innovations in healthcare, life sciences, and electronics. The company's commitment to diversity and innovation fuels its leadership in various sectors, driving growth and transformation globally. Merck Group’s career paths are diverse, offering positions that challenge individuals to use their skills in new ways every day, supported by robust training programs and development opportunities.

Explore Job Opportunities and Growth

Merck Group is not just about jobs; it's about building a career. With a vast array of positions, from research and development to marketing and sales, the company is keen on hiring and nurturing talent to lead industry transformation. Merck Group’s dedication to professional growth is evident in its comprehensive benefits package and performance management processes that aim to maximize individual potential.

Internship Programs

Starting with an internship at Merck Group can be a pivotal step in securing a prosperous career. Interns gain invaluable industry experience, working alongside seasoned professionals and engaging in projects that offer real-world applications of their studies. Internships often lead to full-time employment opportunities, providing a seamless transition from education to professional employment.

Inclusive Culture and Leadership

Merck Group is proud of its inclusive culture that embraces diversity and fosters an environment where all employees can thrive. The company’s leadership is committed to creating a workplace where diverse ideas lead to innovative outcomes. Merck Group also offers diversity training to ensure all team members are equipped to contribute to the company’s inclusive goals.

Networking and Professional Development

Employees at Merck Group are encouraged to engage in networking and professional development activities that enhance their career trajectories. The company hosts various networking events, workshops, and seminars that are designed to hone skills and foster connections within the industry. Leadership development programs are also a cornerstone, preparing employees for future roles of increased responsibility.

Stay Connected with Merck Group Careers

Interested candidates can explore open positions that match their skills and interests through the Merck Group careers page. The company values curious, creative, and solution-driven team players who are eager to make an impact.

Keep Up to Date

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Merck Group is continuously looking for individuals who are ready to drive innovation and lead in the global marketplace. Whether through full-time positions, internships, or leadership roles, Merck Group offers a career path filled with opportunities for growth, learning, and leadership.
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