Associate Director, Program Management

Our Opportunity…

We are looking for a proactive and detail-oriented Associate Director of Program Management to join our dynamic team.  

The ideal candidate will be responsible for driving exceptional cross-functional project execution, ensuring transparency and alignment across CMC, clinical, regulatory, quality, and research, functions to achieve our ambitious goals. This individual will play a key role in supporting project planning, tracking milestones, mitigating risks, and facilitating decision-making to advance the company’s programs efficiently and effectively. 

This is a unique opportunity to contribute to advancing a novel cell therapy that has the potential to become a meaningful option for patients with advanced or metastatic melanoma and other solid tumors. Supported by blue chip investors, field-leading advisors, best-in-class partners, and an experienced team, you'll be part of a dynamic, innovative, passionate, and collaborative team.   

 You Will…

• Lead project planning, execution, and monitoring activities across cross-functional teams, ensuring deliverables are met on time and within scope.
• Develop and maintain detailed project plans, timelines, dashboards, decision trackers, risk registers, and communication tools to support program transparency and accountability. 
• Facilitate regular project team meetings, drive agenda setting, capture action items, and ensure timely follow-up.
• Identify and manage project risks and issues; propose mitigation strategies and escalate as appropriate.
• Partner closely with CMC, Clinical, Regulatory, Quality, and R&D teams to ensure seamless coordination of activities.
• Support governance presentations and status updates for internal leadership and external stakeholders.
• Assist with budget tracking, resource forecasting, and vendor management in collaboration with functional leads.
• Contribute to continuous improvement of project management processes, tools, and templates.
• Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and proactive problem-solving across all teams. 

 You Bring…

Core Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Life Sciences, Engineering, or a related field with 10+ years of experience; advanced degree (M.S./Ph.D. 8+) or PMP certification is a plus.
• 5+ years of experience in biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, or life sciences program management; cell therapy or other oncology experience highly preferred.
• Strong understanding of drug development process including Clinical, Regulatory, and/or CMC, especially pivotal-to-BLA  
• Proven ability to manage complex, cross-functional projects to meet aggressive goals in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
• Successful experience interfacing with external partners (CDMOs, CROs etc.)
• Proficiency with project management tools (e.g., MS Project, Smartsheet, or equivalent).
• Demonstrated experience in developing timelines, risk assessments, and budget tracking.
• Highly collaborative mindset with the ability to lead without direct authority.