Discovery Project Manager - Cell Therapy Discovery

Introduction to RoleAre you ready to co-own the execution of next-generation cell therapy programs and help transform groundbreaking science into meaningful outcomes for patients? As a Discovery Project Manager within Cell Therapy Discovery, you will play a critical role in driving discovery-stage programs focused on autoimmune and immune-mediated diseases.Working in partnership with Bioscience Leads, you will provide strategic project leadership across a portfolio that spans from pre-Target Selection Investment Decision through preclinical proof of concept and transition into Global Product Teams.

Our portfolio includes LVV-based CAR-T, LNP, autologous, and allogeneic cell therapy approaches.This role operates within a unique partnership model where scientific leadership and project leadership work hand-in-hand to ensure clear decision-making, effective execution, and timely delivery of program objectives. Within a highly collaborative and agile environment, you will help shape how discovery projects are managed while contributing directly to programs advancing toward the clinic.AccountabilitiesProject Leadership & ExecutionPartner closely with Bioscience Leads to drive execution, delivery, and decision-making across discovery-stage programs.Co-own program scope, timelines, budgets, risks, and milestones.Facilitate cross-functional collaboration and alignment to ensure successful project delivery.Challenge assumptions, drive accountability, and proactively address barriers to progress.Project Planning & CoordinationLead project initiation activities including project charters, RACI development, governance structures, and team operating models.Develop and maintain integrated project plans and schedules.Identify project risks and opportunities early and coordinate appropriate mitigation activities.Governance & Decision SupportLead and facilitate project team meetings and product development reviews.Manage project interdependencies, scope adjustments, and escalation pathways.Maintain project plans and governance documentation, ensuring alignment with organizational processes.Prepare project updates, dashboards, and milestone reporting for leadership teams.AI-Enabled Project ManagementLeverage AI-enabled solutions to enhance project scheduling, risk analysis, reporting, and decision support.Promote responsible and effective use of AI tools across project teams.Stay current with emerging technologies that improve project execution and operational efficiency.Stakeholder ManagementPartner effectively with scientific, technical, and business stakeholders.Support governance reviews and investment decision activities.Drive clear communication and alignment across global cross-functional teams.Program Transfer & CloseoutLead the successful transition of programs to Global Product Teams and incoming Global Project Managers.Ensure readiness of deliverables, data packages, and handover documentation.Capture and apply lessons learned to continuously improve project execution practices.Coordinate project handovers with regional teams, including partnerships supporting China Discovery and investigator-initiated trial preparations.Essential RequirementsBachelor's degree with a minimum of 10 year's experience.Significant project management experience within pharmaceutical, biotechnology, drug discovery, or early development environments.Strong understanding of autoimmune and immune-mediated disease biology and drug development.Demonstrated success managing complex, cross-functional projects through key development milestones and investment decisions.Experience partnering directly with scientific leaders to drive project execution and delivery.Strong stakeholder management, communication, and influencing skills.Ability to challenge constructively, navigate ambiguity, and facilitate effective decision-making.Experience utilizing project management methodologies, planning tools, and governance frameworks.Desirable RequirementsAdvanced degree (PhD,