Associate Director, Quality Control

Takeda; Brooklyn Park (MN); On-site; USD 154,000 - 243,000; Full time

Job summary

Takeda in Brooklyn Park, MN is seeking an Associate Director of Quality Control to lead analytical chemistry, microbiology, and bioanalytical testing for materials and finished products in support of manufacturing operations. You will drive compliance with cGMP and global standards while partnering with Manufacturing and other Quality functions to advance safety, quality and continuous improvement.

You will lead method transfers, laboratory expansions, and initiative programs, oversee CAPA,

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in life sciences, chemistry, engineering, or related technical discipline.
• 10 years of experience in pharmaceutical/regulated lab operations.
• Experience leading analytical chemistry, microbiology, bioanalytical, or related QC functions.
• 6+ years in management/people leadership, including large or 24/7 labs.
• Experience with regulatory inspections, audits, and quality systems.
• Knowledge of method transfers, Deviation/CAPA, Change Control, and QRM.

Responsibilities

• Lead QC laboratory operations across analytical chemistry, microbiology, and bioanalysis.
• Manage lab teams supporting routine, in-process, release, stability, and investigations.
• Ensure timely, accurate, and scientifically justified test results.
• Establish and maintain compliant lab processes, methods, and systems.
• Ensure compliance with Takeda policies, cGMPs, and local/international regs.
• Serve as QC SME during inspections and audits.

Skills

Leadership

Analytical chemistry

Microbiology

Bioanalytical testing

Regulatory inspections

Data analytics

Lean Six Sigma

CAPA

Quality systems

Education

Bachelor's degree in life sciences, chemistry, engineering

Master's degree or Ph.D. preferred

Tools

TrackWise

SAP

Microsoft Office

Job description

Job Description

Title: Associate Director, Quality Control

Location: Brooklyn Park, MN (Onsite)

About the role:

As an Associate Director, Quality Control, you will provide strategic and operational leadership for QC laboratory functions, including analytical chemistry, microbiology, bioanalytical testing, laboratory systems, and laboratory excellence. You will ensure the timely, compliant, and scientifically sound testing of raw materials, intermediates, in-process samples, and finished drug substance in support of manufacturing operations and patient needs. You will drive compliance with Takeda’s Quality Management System, applicable cGMP requirements, global standards, and regulatory expectations.

You will also will partner up closely with Manufacturing and other Quality functions to advance safety, quality, compliance, operational performance, employee development, customer satisfaction, digital innovation, and continuous improvement. You will be part of the site Quality Leadership Team.

How will you contribute:

• Lead QC laboratory operations, including analytical chemistry, microbiology, and bioanalytical functions.

• Manage, through subordinate leaders, laboratory teams supporting routine, in-process, release, stability, and investigative testing.

• Ensure schedule adherence and timely delivery of accurate, reliable, and scientifically justified test results.

• Establish, implement, and maintain compliant laboratory processes, procedures, methods, and systems.

• Ensure compliance with Takeda policies, cGMP requirements, and both local and international regulations.

• Serve as a QC subject‑matter expert during regulatory inspections, and audits.

• Provide expertise in interpreting regulations, agency guidance, internal policies, and quality standards.

• Support and oversee Deviation, CAPA, Change Control, Audit, and Quality Risk Management activities.

• Conduct gap assessments and implement improvements to the Quality Management System.

• Provide leadership for method transfers, laboratory expansion, and new product or process introductions.

• Identify, manage, and lead continuous improvement initiatives.

• Apply data analytics, Lean, Six Sigma, DMAIC, and other improvement methodologies where appropriate.

• Establish and monitor QC performance metrics, including those reported through Quality Council.

• Develop departmental budgets and ensure responsible fiscal management.

• Plan and manage staffing, succession, training, coaching, recognition, and professional development.

• Hire, develop, motivate, and retain technical and management personnel.

• Communicate priorities, objectives, project timelines, and expectations effectively to staff and stakeholders.

• Delegate responsibilities and projects based on employee capability, judgment, and experience.

• Complete mandatory training within required timeframe.

• Perform other duties as assigned.

What you bring to Takeda:

• Bachelor’s degree in life sciences, chemistry, engineering, or another related technical discipline required.

• Master’s degree or Ph.D. preferred.

• 10 years of experience in pharmaceutical, biotechnology, biological‑product, or regulated laboratory operations.

• Experience leading analytical chemistry, microbiology, bioanalytical, or other multidisciplinary QC laboratory functions.

• 6+ years of management and people‑leadership experience required; experience leading large or 24/7 laboratory organizations strongly preferred.

• Experience with regulatory inspections, audit readiness, and laboratory compliance.

• Experience with method transfers, laboratory systems, Deviation/CAPA, Change Control, and Quality Risk Management.

• Experience with TrackWise, SAP, Microsoft Office, and related laboratory or quality systems preferred.

• Knowledge of endotoxin and sterility testing preferred.

In-depth knowledge of cGMPs, Good Data and Documentation Practices, and applicable FDA, EMA, PDA, and other regulatory requirements.

Strong understanding of laboratory operations, analytical methods, microbiology, sterility assurance, and contamination control. Knowledge of data analytics, digital laboratory innovation, Lean, and Six Sigma concepts preferred.

• Perform work involving moderate to high scope, complexity, and organizational impact.

• Operate independently with general direction, applying policies, standards, scientific principles, and regulatory expectations.

• Troubleshoot technical, operational, compliance, and quality issues and determines appropriate corrective and preventive actions.

• Balance competing business, quality, compliance, staffing, and resource priorities.

• Implement global QC strategies using sound scientific principles and international regulatory standards.

• Identifie risks, escalates significant issues appropriately, and makes quality decisions aligned with Takeda policies and site procedures.

• Build alignment and consensus with collaborators and customers across functions and organizational levels.

Other Job Requirements

• Ability to work in controlled environments requiring special gowning and personal protective equipment.

• May be required to work in clean rooms, confined areas, and cool or hot storage environments.

• Ability to stand for extended periods and perform work in QC laboratory settings.

• Requires wrist and hand motion for activities such as typing and writing.

• May be required to work multiple shifts, weekends, or provide support for 24/7 laboratory operations.

• Willingness to travel for meetings, training, inspections, or other business needs; approximately 5–10% travel.

• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities.

Takeda Compensation and Benefits Summary

We understand compensation is an important factor as you consider the next step in your career. We are committed to equitable pay for all employees, and we strive to be more transparent with our pay practices.

For Location:

Brooklyn Park, MN

U.S. Base Salary Range:

$154,400.00 - $242,550.00

The estimated salary range reflects an anticipated range for this position