Eli Lilly

Director / Sr / Exec Dir - Applied Intelligence for Discovery (AI4D)

Eli Lilly$163K — $281K *
Pharmaceuticals & Biotech
11 - 15 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's, Master's, or PhD in Computer Science, Data Science, Computational Biology, or related field
  • Minimum 15 years experience in AI/ML or data science
  • Proven track record in AI/ML scaled deployment in complex organizations
  • 5+ years experience leading and scaling teams
  • Deep expertise in ML frameworks, MLOps, and cloud platforms (AWS/Azure/GCP)

Responsibilities

  • Build and lead a multidisciplinary team in data science and ML engineering
  • Set strategic direction for AI/ML platforms in discovery research
  • Own full platform lifecycle from integration to optimization
  • Guide architecture for ML workflows including data pipelines and model deployment
  • Champion AI capabilities, influencing senior leaders and resource allocation
  • Manage partnerships with tech providers and research institutions
  • Drive MLOps adoption for compliant AI development at scale
  • Align platform strategy with scientific research priorities across teams

Benefits

  • Eligibility to participate in a company-sponsored 401(k)
  • Pension plan
  • Vacation benefits
  • Medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug coverage
  • Flexible spending accounts for healthcare and dependent care
  • Life insurance and death benefits
  • Well-being benefits, including fitness programs and employee assistance
Full Job Description
The Opportunity

We are building something unprecedented - an AI foundation that will fundamentally change how drug discovery research is conducted.

The Executive Director of Applied Intelligence for Discovery (AI4D) will own the technical vision and execution for AI capabilities that enable discovery researchers across therapeutics areas to work in entirely new ways. You will partner with senior leaders across the organization to align these capabilities with research priorities, secure the resources to deliver on the vision, and drive adoption that turns platform potential into scientific impact. You will define the strategic direction for our AI and data science capabilities, ensuring they deliver measurable research acceleration while maintaining the rigor required in regulated drug development.

This role exists to drive a specific transformation: from discovery research that is computationally supported to discovery research that is computationally driven. That means building platforms where AI doesn't just accelerate existing workflows but enables fundamentally new ones.

Key Responsibilities
  • Build and lead a multidisciplinary team spanning data science, ML engineering, and scientific software development
  • Set technical vision and roadmap for AI/ML platforms serving discovery research, aligning capabilities with enterprise priorities
  • Own the full platform lifecycle - from identifying and integrating new AI capabilities to sunsetting legacy solutions, optimizing for overall portfolio performance as research priorities evolve
  • Guide architecture decisions for end-to-end ML workflows: data pipelines, feature engineering, model development, deployment, and monitoring
  • Serve as executive champion for AI capabilities, articulating value to senior partners and influencing resource allocation
  • Identify, establish, and manage strategic partnerships with technology providers and research institutions to expand platform capabilities
  • Drive adoption of MLOps practices that enable reproducible, automated, and compliant AI development at scale
  • Partner with technology and therapeutic area leaders to envision and complete high-impact AI applications and translate research requirements into platform capabilities
  • Work across organizational boundaries in a complex matrixed environment to align platform strategy with scientific priorities


Qualifications

  • Bachelors degree, Master's degree or PhD in Computer Science, Data Science, Computational Biology, or related field
  • Minimum 15 years experience in AI/ML or data science


Additional Skills/Preferences

  • Proven track record driving AI/ML from concept to scaled deployment in complex matrixed organizations
  • 5 + years leading teams with preference building them to scale
  • Deep expertise in modern ML frameworks, MLOps practices, and cloud platforms (AWS/Azure/GCP)
  • Demonstrated track record of driving AI/ML capabilities from concept through scaled deployment in complex, matrixed organizations - with evidence of measurable impact on business outcomes, not just model performance
  • Ability to translate between scientific research questions and technical solutions
  • Experience navigating cross-functional dynamics and influencing without direct authority
  • Experience in pharmaceutical, life sciences, or healthcare industries
  • Track record managing external technology partnerships and vendor relationships
  • Platform architecture background - you think in systems and portfolios, not features and projects


Actual compensation will depend on a candidate's education, experience, skills, and geographic location. The anticipated wage for this position is
$163,500 - $281,600

Full-time equivalent employees also will be eligible for a company bonus (depending, in part, on company and individual performance). In addition, Lilly offers a comprehensive benefit program to eligible employees, including eligibility to participate in a company-sponsored 401(k); pension; vacation benefits; eligibility for medical, dental, vision and prescription drug benefits; flexible benefits (e.g., healthcare and/or dependent day care flexible spending accounts); life insurance and death benefits; certain time off and leave of absence benefits; and well-being benefits (e.g., employee assistance program, fitness benefits, and employee clubs and activities).Lilly reserves the right to amend, modify, or terminate its compensation and benefit programs in its sole discretion and Lilly's compensation practices and guidelines will apply regarding the details of any promotion or transfer of Lilly employees.

#WeAreLilly

About Eli Lilly

ICOS Corporation is a biotechnology company that engages in the discovery, development, and commercialization of therapeutic products. It is engaged in the commercialization of treatments for unmet medical conditions, such as benign prostatic hyperplasia, hypertension, pulmonary arterial hypertension, cancer, and inflammatory diseases. It is the developer of a treatment known as Cialis (tadalafil), a product for the treatment of erectile dysfunction through its joint venture with Eli Lilly and Company in North America and Europe. It is also engaged in contract manufacturing services for third parties. It is in a strategic alliance with Solvay Pharmaceuticals, Inc. ICOS Corporation was established in 1989, based in Bothell, Washington. It is currently operated by Eli Lilly and Company.

Eli Lilly Careers

Joining Eli Lilly offers an unparalleled opportunity to become part of a leading global team dedicated to creating a healthier future. As a company revered for its commitment to innovation and leadership in the pharmaceutical industry, Eli Lilly is where your professional journey can flourish. Work You’ll Do At Eli Lilly, we are passionate about transforming patient care and advancing medical innovation. Our team at Eli Lilly is at the forefront of developing groundbreaking solutions in healthcare. By joining us, you will collaborate with some of the brightest minds in the industry, using cutting-edge technology to make real-world impacts. Lead with Innovation and Leadership Eli Lilly stands out in the marketplace by integrating deep industry expertise with robust research and development efforts. We are looking for professionals who are eager to drive change and lead the way in developing therapeutic breakthroughs. Explore Job Opportunities and Growth Eli Lilly offers a variety of career paths, including full-time positions and internships, across multiple functions such as research, marketing, IT, and sales. Whether you are a seasoned professional or a recent graduate, Eli Lilly provides an environment that promotes career growth and learning opportunities. Our commitment to diversity and leadership training ensures that every employee can achieve their potential. Be Part of Our Team Our team at Eli Lilly is committed to excellence and driven by a mission to improve lives. Employees enjoy a supportive culture that values collaboration, creativity, and diversity. We believe that a diverse workforce fosters innovation and helps us better connect with the communities we serve. Benefits and Culture Eli Lilly is dedicated to supporting our employees, offering competitive benefits, wellness programs, and comprehensive health care. Our culture is built on a foundation of respect, integrity, and quality, making Eli Lilly not just a great place to work, but a community to grow with. Networking and Professional Development Eli Lilly encourages continuous professional development and networking. With access to various training programs and mentorship opportunities, employees can enhance their skills and advance their careers. Our leadership is committed to nurturing talent through effective training and development strategies. Join Our Team Discover the exciting job opportunities at Eli Lilly by exploring open positions that match your skills and interests. We are continuously hiring and looking for individuals who are passionate, innovative, and ready to contribute to our mission of making life better for people around the globe. Stay Connected Keep up to date with the latest at Eli Lilly by following our careers blog. Gain insights from industry leaders and get tips on everything from crafting the perfect resume to preparing for your interview. Eli Lilly is not just a company—it's a place where you can make a difference. Explore the positions available and find out how your talents can help change the world. SEARCH ELI LILLY JOBS Stay ahead in your career with Eli Lilly, where innovation, leadership, and a commitment to diversity and growth lead the way to future advancements.
Learn more about Eli Lilly
Size
35,000 employees
Market Cap
$344.2 billion
Industry
Net Income
$6.1 billion
Founded
1876
5 Year Trend
+5.9%
Revenue
$24.5 billion
NASDAQ

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