Remote Senior Director, R&D Strategy & Execution

Ladders; United States; Remote; USD 223,000 - 293,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive benefits: Medical,Dental

401(k) with company contributions

FSA/HSA options

Life Insurance

GenerousPaid Time Off

Wellness programs

Equity awards and ESPP

Job summary

Ladders is seeking a Senior Director of R&D Strategy Execution & Transformation to lead high-priority transformation initiatives from strategy to implementation, with measurable outcomes. The role emphasizes program management discipline across global workstreams and enterprise-wide alignment.

The ideal candidate will partner with functional leaders and senior executives to improve governance, operating models, and performance management within R&D, translating priorities into actionable

Qualifications

• 5-7 years of experience in biopharma, life sciences consulting, or R&D operations; consulting and industry experience valued equally.
• Strong understanding of the pharmaceutical/biotechnology industry and R&D value chain; direct drug development or oncology experience is a plus.
• Proven track record of independently leading complex cross-functional initiatives and transformations.
• Exceptional ability to translate ambiguous objectives into structured workplans and drive execution through stakeholders without direct authority.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and project management skills with excellent attention to detail.
• Excellent executive communication skills, capable of developing senior leadership materials independently.
• High emotional intelligence and sound judgment, adept at navigating complex global organizations.

Responsibilities

• Lead high-priority R&D transformation initiatives from strategy through implementation, ensuring measurable outcomes.
• Establish and lead strategic program management offices, including workstream design and performance tracking.
• Drive cross-functional alignment and accountability across Research and Development, proactively resolving issues.
• Identify opportunities to improve R&D operating models and implement sustainable solutions.
• Support the design and continuous improvement of R&D governance and performance management processes.
• Partner with functional leaders to translate R&D-wide priorities into actionable plans and measurable outcomes.
• Develop compelling executive communications and support leadership forums and strategic reviews.

Skills

Program management

Cross-functional leadership

Executive communication

Analytical skills

Problem solving

Stakeholder management

R&D operations

Biopharma knowledge

Education

Bachelor's degree

Advanced degree preferred

Job description

Ladders is seeking a Senior Director of R&D Strategy Execution & Transformation to lead high-priority transformation initiatives from strategy to implementation, with measurable outcomes. The role emphasizes program management discipline across global workstreams and enterprise-wide alignment.

The ideal candidate will partner with functional leaders and senior executives to improve governance, operating models, and performance management within R&D, translating priorities into actionable