Associate Director, Solutions Architecture - Scientific Technology Platforms

Vertex Pharmaceuticals Incorporated; Boston (MA); On-site; USD 197,600 - 296,400; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Annual bonus

Annual equity awards

Flexible work options

Job summary

Vertex Pharmaceuticals Incorporated is seeking a dynamic Director of Solutions Architecture to lead digital transformation efforts. This pivotal position will leverage technology to enhance research, development, manufacturing, and supply chain processes.

The ideal candidate will have over 8 years of solutions architecture experience, a strong understanding of cloud computing platforms, and proficiency in project management. The role offers a hybrid work model, with options for remote work.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 8 years of solutions architecture experience.
• Proven track record in scalable and secure solutions.
• Experience in pharmaceuticals and life sciences.

Responsibilities

• Drive digital transformation initiatives through technology solutions.
• Lead cross-functional teams for seamless digital integration.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and industry standards.

Skills

Solutions architecture principles

Cloud computing platforms (AWS, Azure, Google Cloud)

Software development lifecycle (SDLC)

Project management

Communication skills

Technology integration

Security best practices

Education

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or related field

Master's or PhD preferred

Tools

AWS

Azure

Google Cloud

Job description

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 & 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 of Solutions Architecture to join our team and drive our digital transformation initiatives.

The Director, Solutions Architecture – Scientific Technology Platforms is a pivotal role within the DTE RPMS group. This role will be responsible for driving our digital transformation initiatives by designing and implementing robust, scalable, and innovative technology solutions powering research, pre‑clinical, development, manufacturing and supply functions across Vertex globally. The Director, Solutions Architecture will be a recognized SME in the technical domain that will lead technical delivery for key initiatives and focus on enterprise‑wide technical excellence.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

Vision and Strategy

• Develop and execute the data and technology architecture strategy, focused on platform simplification.
• Execute data and technology architecture strategies to enhance RPMS operations through innovative digital solutions.
• Contribute to the development of scalable, secure, and high‑performance technology solutions.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams to identify digital transformation opportunities and scalable technology solutions.

Operational Execution

• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams to ensure seamless integration of digital solutions across the organization.
• Track key performance indicators (KPIs) to evaluate the effectiveness of digital transformation initiatives and implement data‑driven enhancements.
• Follow architectural principles, standards, and patterns that promote scalability, security, and interoperability across RDMS systems.
• Contribute to ensuring the architectural blueprint for RDMS is always live.
• Focus on compliance with regulatory requirements and industry standards.

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.
• Provide guidance and support on technical and digital transformation solutions.
• Provide architectural leadership.

Knowledge and Skills

• Strong understanding of solutions architecture principles and best practices.
• Proficiency in rapidly adopting and implementing emerging technology (e.g., agentic).
• Proficiency in cloud computing platforms (e.g., AWS, Azure, Google Cloud) and familiarity with their services and architectures.
• Strong strategic thinking and problem‑solving skills, with the ability to develop and execute long‑term architectural strategies.
• Strong understanding of software development lifecycle (SDLC) and agile methodologies.
• Excellent project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple initiatives simultaneously.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex technical concepts to a variety of audiences.
• Ability to assess and recommend appropriate technology stacks and tools for different projects.
• Ability to integrate various systems and applications to create cohesive solutions.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively engage with stakeholders at all levels.
• Knowledge of security best practices and regulatory requirements related to data protection and privacy.

Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Information Technology, Science, Engineering or a related field. A PhD or Master’s degree is preferred.
• Minimum of 8 years of solutions architecture experience designing and implementing digital solutions within research, development, manufacturing, and supply chain environments.
• Proven track record of developing and implementing scalable, secure, and high‑performance solutions.
• Demonstrated architectural leadership and ability to align architectures to enterprise‑wide technical direction.
• Experience in pharmaceuticals and life sciences.
• Experience in conducting architecture reviews and ensuring compliance with best practices and standards.

Pay Range: $197,600 – $296,400

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.

Flex Designation: Hybrid-Eligible or On-Site Eligible

Flex Eligibility Status: In this Hybrid‑Eligible role, you can choose to be designated as:

• Hybrid: work remotely up to two days per week.
• On‑Site: work five days per week on‑site with ad hoc flexibility.

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 [e-mail].