Associate Director, Program Management

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Fortvita Biologics is a biopharmaceutical company based in the San Francisco Bay Area specializing in antibody discovery and engineering, with platforms that span antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), bispecifics, and multispecifics. Our pipeline targets oncology, immunology, and neurodegenerative diseases and is supported by a team of over 100 across research, development, regulatory, and operational functions. With a global clinical presence and an emphasis on thoughtful design and agile execution, Fortvita is working to translate next-generation biologics from concept to clinic.

Summary

Fortvita is seeking a dynamic and experienced Associate Director, Program Management to lead high-impact, cross functional drug development programs that are critical to our mission. This strategic role is responsible for aligning program strategy, overseeing execution, and ensuring delivery of complex initiatives that directly impact our ability to bring transformative therapies to patients. The ideal candidate will bring deep expertise in drug development, exceptional organizational skills, and sound judgment under pressure. They will thrive in fast-paced, dynamic environments and collaborate across teams to drive execution and decision-making. This is a hybrid role requiring two days per week onsite at our Palo Alto office.

Responsibilities

Strategic Program Leadership

• Serve as the program team lead, driving the development and execution of integrated program plans to ensure milestones are achieved on time, within scope, and on budget.
• Provide strategic guidance to align program objectives with corporate strategy and long-term business goals.
• Evaluate alternative development scenarios, balancing cost, timelines, risk, and strategic fit to deliver actionable recommendations.

Cross-Functional Alignment & Leadership

• Lead and inspire cross-functional teams across CMC, clinical, nonclinical, regulatory, and commercial functions to ensure effective execution and alignment.
• Build and nurture strong partnerships within the organization and with external stakeholders to foster seamless collaboration and open communication.

Organizational Influence

• Deliver high-impact program updates, insights, and strategic recommendations to executive leadership.
• Provide clear visibility into program risks, mitigation plans, and key decision points to maintain alignment with organizational priorities.
• Champion key organizational initiatives to improve program execution and operational capabilities.
• Proactively identify and manage program risks through robust contingency planning and mitigation strategies.
• Collaborate with subject matter experts to resolve complex challenges efficiently and effectively.
• Incorporate data-driven insights into strategic decision-making to optimize program outcomes.

Stakeholder Engagement

• Represent the program in all internal and external stakeholder interactions, ensuring consistent, transparent, and timely communication.

Operational Excellence

• Lead process improvement initiatives to enhance efficiency, scalability, and execution across programs.
• Promote and uphold program management best practices across the organization.

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor’s degree with 12+ years, Master’s with 10+ years, or Ph.D. with 8+ years of relevant experience in drug development and program leadership.
• Academic background in Biological Sciences, Bioengineering, Chemistry, or a related scientific field is required; an advanced degree is strongly preferred.
• Proven track record of leading programs through Phase II and III clinical trials, including multi-regional studies and integrated CMC and regulatory execution.
• Demonstrated success in leading high-performing, cross-functional teams within biotech or pharmaceutical environments.
• Strong strategic thinking and decision-making capabilities, with the ability to influence program direction and outcomes.
• Exceptional organizational and communication skills, with a consistent ability to align and engage diverse stakeholders.

Preferred

• Proficient in project and program management tools (e.g., Microsoft Office Suite, Smartsheet, or equivalent platforms).
• Adept at preparing and delivering executive-level presentations and managing high-stakes communications with internal and external stakeholders.

Compensation and Benefits Include:

• Competitive base salary, bonus, and equity for all employees.
• Salary: $160,000 to $200,000 - This reflects the company’s pay scale for the role. Actual compensation may vary depending on factors such as location, skills, experience, and performance.
• 401(k) retirement plan with employer matching contributions.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Generous paid time off policy, including company holidays and floating holidays.

Fortvita is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and applicants and do not discriminate based on any protected characteristic under applicable federal, state, or local law. This includes but not limited to race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and breastfeeding), gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, marital status, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, military or veteran status, or hair texture and style. Harassment or discrimination on the basis of any protected trait is strictly prohibited.

We do not accept unsolicited resumes from staffing agencies or search firms. Any resume submitted without a signed agreement will be considered unsolicited, and Fortvita will not be obligated to pay any fees.

Additional Legal Disclaimers

Applicants must have legal authorization to work in the United States. In compliance with federal law, all new hires will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the U.S. and complete Form I-9 upon hire.

Employment at Fortvita is at-will. This means that either the employee or the company may terminate the employment relationship at any time, with or without cause or advanced notice. This job description is intended to describe the general nature of the work being performed and does not constitute a contract or guarantee of employment. Fortvita reserves the right to modify job duties or responsibilities at any time, based on business needs.

Seniority level

• Seniority level

  Director

Employment type

• Employment type

  Full-time

Job function

• Job function

  Project Management

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Inferred from the description for this job

Medical insurance

Vision insurance

401(k)

Disability insurance

Tuition assistance

Paid maternity leave

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