R&D Quality Transformation & Data Science Lead

Regulatory Jobs; North Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 180,000 - 240,000; Full time

Job summary

AbbVie is seeking an Associate Director to lead R&D Quality Transformation and Data Science, driving analytics, AI/ML initiatives, and process improvements across QA. The role partners with leaders across R&D QA, IT, and R&D to implement new tools and operating models, enabling data-driven decisions and improved quality culture.

The ideal candidate brings 8+ years in data science or analytics within regulated environments, strong statistical skills, and proficiency with Python, R, SQL and BI

Qualifications

• Bachelors in Data Science, Statistics, Biostatistics, Applied Math, Engineering, Life Sciences or related field; advanced degree preferred.
• 8+ years in data science, analytics, AI/ML, or transformation in life sciences or regulated industry.
• Experience leading cross-functional initiatives in pharma/medical devices/quality environments.
• Data-driven problem solving to support process improvement and business decisions.
• Understanding of quality systems, compliance in regulated environments.
• Strong communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Ability to influence in a matrixed organization without direct authority.
• Expertise in KPI frameworks, balanced scorecards, or enterprise performance systems.
• Proficiency in Python, R, SQL and BI/visualization platforms.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute a transformation roadmap for R&D QA with analytics, AI/ML, and operational excellence.
• Analyze data to identify trends, root causes, and opportunities; prioritize improvement actions.
• Lead or support cross-functional projects to improve quality operations and decision-making.
• Partner across R&D QA, IT, and R&D to implement improvements and new tools.
• Contribute to analytics, automation, and AI/ML solutions to boost efficiency and insights.
• Develop and refine KPI dashboards and executive-level reporting.
• Build business cases with financial modeling and benchmarking.
• Translate data into clear value narratives showing benefits and cost avoidance.
• Monitor progress, risks, and outcomes; report to leaders.

Skills

Data science

AI/ML

Process improvement

Transformation

KPIs & dashboards

Statistical analysis

Education

Bachelor's in Data Science/related

Tools

Python

R

SQL

Power BI/Tableau

Job description

AbbVie is seeking an Associate Director to lead R&D Quality Transformation and Data Science, driving analytics, AI/ML initiatives, and process improvements across QA. The role partners with leaders across R&D QA, IT, and R&D to implement new tools and operating models, enabling data-driven decisions and improved quality culture.

The ideal candidate brings 8+ years in data science or analytics within regulated environments, strong statistical skills, and proficiency with Python, R, SQL and BI