Vaccine Drug Product Strategy & Development Leader

Merck & Co.; Elmora (NJ); Hybrid; USD 256,000 - 403,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Annual bonus

Long-term incentive

Benefits package

Job summary

Merck & Co. in the United States seeks an Executive Director, Vaccine Drug Product Development to lead strategic vaccine development from early research through commercialization.

This enterprise-wide role shapes portfolio strategy, guides investments, and builds capabilities to deliver innovative vaccines at scale. You will lead cross-functional teams across Development, Regulatory, Quality, and Manufacturing, champion talent development, and drive transformational leadership to accelerate

Qualifications

• Ph.D. or equivalent advanced degree in a related scientific discipline.
• 12+ years of experience in vaccine, biologics, or sterile drug product development.
• Experience leading vaccine/sterile drug product strategy across development, CMC, regulatory, technology transfer, and launch-readiness.
• Proven ability to influence across functions and drive portfolio decisions.
• Strong understanding of vaccine development, sterile manufacturing, and commercialization in a regulated environment.

Responsibilities

• Lead vaccine drug product development from early strategy through commercial launch.
• Define and execute strategic vision, priorities, and operating model for Vaccine Drug Product.
• Partner across functions to ensure scientifically robust, operationally feasible programs.
• Build and develop high-performing teams and drive a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.

Skills

Vaccine development

Sterile drug product

CMC strategy

Regulatory submissions

Leadership & people development

Education

Ph.D. or equivalent advanced degree in Engineering, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Immunology, Biochemistry, Chemistry, or a related scientific discipline.

Job description

Merck & Co. in the United States seeks an Executive Director, Vaccine Drug Product Development to lead strategic vaccine development from early research through commercialization.

This enterprise-wide role shapes portfolio strategy, guides investments, and builds capabilities to deliver innovative vaccines at scale. You will lead cross-functional teams across Development, Regulatory, Quality, and Manufacturing, champion talent development, and drive transformational leadership to accelerate