Director AI and Robotics Transformation -MS
Role Summary
The Director of AI and Robotics Transformation will lead the design and execution of AI, predictive science and robotics initiatives within Manufacturing Sciences. This pivotal role will advance the "art of the possible" by collaborating with expert functions (e.g. DSM, R&D IT) and transformation teams (e.g. Modelling, AI, Simulations & Twins, MAST, RACT) to deliver high-impact, value-driven solutions that transform our ways of working in a coordinated and scalable manner.
The successful candidate will drive multi-year AI and Robotics transformation roadmaps, prioritize and deliver Robotics, AI and predictive tools aligned with business objectives. They will rapidly evaluate emerging technologies, scale successful pilots, and ensure projects remain on track and within budget. In addition, this role will spearhead function-wide change management for AI and Robotics, fostering a culture of continuous learning, promoting AI literacy, and clearly communicating the vision and benefits of AI and Robotics across the organization.
As Manufacturing Science’s representative on cross-functional transformation teams (e.g. MAST, RACT), this role will ensure functional priorities are incorporated into broader initiatives while providing visibility into key functional projects. This position also offers the opportunity to lead cross-functional projects when required, driving collaboration and delivering shared organizational objectives.
Ideal candidates will be strategic leaders with a proven track record in implementing AI, predictive science and Robotics within the Manufacturing Sciences or related functional area. They will be passionate about digital transformation and skilled at guiding cross-functional teams to achieve measurable outcomes and meaningful change.
Key Responsibilities
Develop, drive, and iteratively refine a functional specific AI and predictive science strategy aligned with business objectives and emerging trends.
Develop, drive, and iteratively refine a functional specific Robotics strategy aligned with business objectives, emerging trends and Manufacturing of the Future.
Define and maintain the functional roadmaps, ensuring prioritization and alignment with departmental transformation goals.
· Collaborate with expert functions (e.g. DSM) to manage end-to-end delivery of AI and predictive science projects, ensuring stakeholder engagement from requirements definition through PoC, pilot, and full production deployment.
Lead and serve as a key contributor to functional matrix teams, fostering close collaboration with expert functions to deliver functional projects.
Accelerate adoption by creating training programs, communication plans, and KPIs to measure impact and success.
Partner with leadership to assess and adapt functional capabilities (talent, technology, capacity) to accelerate and scale delivery of the multi-year roadmap.
Represent Manufacturing Sciences in transformation teams (e.g., MAST, RACT), ensuring functional requirements are met by actively influencing cross-functional decisions. Proactively share functional plans and progress with the wider department.
Lead major cross-functional digital transformation projects when required.
Qualifications & Experience
Strong leadership and strategic thinking skills, with a proven ability to drive organizational change.
Deep understanding of Biopharmaceutical Development scientific processes and associated challenges.
Demonstrated experience managing complex, multi-stakeholder projects and leading cross-functional teams.
Substantial exposure to AI technologies and their application in scientific or operational contexts.
Advanced Experience with Biopharmaceutical Drug Substance, Analytical or Drug product Development, or Clinical Manufacturing.
Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
Masters degree in a related field with 12 years of experience or PhD with 8 years of experience
Preferred Attributes
Passion for innovation and digital transformation.
Ability to translate scientific needs into practical, scalable digital solutions.
Collaborative mindset with a strong focus on delivering measurable outcomes.
Experience in leading other engineers/scientists in the creation, modification, and troubleshooting of laboratory robotics & automation scripts.
The annual base pay for this position ranges from 171.426,40- 257.139,60 USD Annual (80% - 120%). Hourly and salaried non-exempt employees will also be paid overtime pay when working qualifying overtime hours. Base pay offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including market location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. In addition, our positions offer a short-term incentive bonus opportunity; eligibility to participate in our equity-based long-term incentive program (salaried roles), to receive a retirement contribution (hourly roles), and commission payment eligibility (sales roles). Benefits offered included a qualified retirement program [401(k) plan]; paid vacation and holidays; paid leaves; and, health benefits including medical, prescription drug, dental, and vision coverage in accordance with the terms and conditions of the applicable plans. Additional details of participation in these benefit plans will be provided if an employee receives an offer of employment. If hired, employee will be in an “at-will position” and the Company reserves the right to modify base pay (as well as any other discretionary payment or compensation program) at any time, including for reasons related to individual performance, Company or individual department/team performance, and market factors.
When we put unexpected teams in the same room, we spark bold thinking with the power to inspire life-changing medicines. In-person working gives us the platform we need to connect, work at pace and challenge perceptions. That's why we work, on average, a minimum of three days per week from the office. But that doesn't mean we're not flexible. We balance the expectation of being in the office while respecting individual flexibility. Join us in our outstanding and ambitious world.
Join a team with the backing and investment to win! You'll be working with brand-new technology. This marriage between our purposeful work and the use of high-tech platforms is what sets us apart. Lead the way in digital healthcare. From exploring data and AI to working in the cloud on new technologies. Join a team at the forefront. Help shape and define the technologies of the future with the backing you need from across the business.
AstraZeneca embraces diversity and equality of opportunity. We are committed to building an inclusive and diverse team representing all backgrounds, with as wide a range of perspectives as possible, and harnessing industry-leading skills. We believe that the more inclusive we are, the better our work will be. We welcome and consider applications to join our team from all qualified candidates, regardless of their characteristics. We comply with all applicable laws and regulations on non-discrimination in employment (and recruitment), as well as work authorization and employment eligibility verification requirements.
Ready to make an impact? Apply now!
Date Posted
12-Nov-2025Closing Date
Our mission is to build an inclusive environment where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants and employees. In furtherance of that mission, we welcome and consider applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of their protected characteristics. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please complete the corresponding section in the application form.
AstraZeneca embraces diversity and equality of opportunity. We are committed to building an inclusive and diverse team representing all backgrounds, with as wide a range of perspectives as possible, and harnessing industry-leading skills. We believe that the more inclusive we are, the better our work will be. We welcome and consider applications to join our team from all qualified candidates, regardless of their characteristics. We comply with all applicable laws and regulations on non-discrimination in employment (and recruitment), as well as work authorisation and employment eligibility verification requirements.
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