AstraZeneca
Director, R&D Logistics and Distribution Operations
AstraZeneca, Gaithersburg, Maryland, us, 20883
Director, R&D Logistics and Distribution Operations
Join to apply for the
Director, R&D Logistics and Distribution Operations
role at
AstraZeneca
The Director, R&D Logistics and Distribution Operations leads all end-to-end warehousing, shipping, and receiving activities for GMP and non‑GMP materials at a pharmaceutical R&D facility, including incoming/outgoing material logistics at a North American BioCentre and global import/export operations. This role ensures compliant and efficient timed movement of materials—temperature‑controlled shipments, raw material deliveries, and disposals—while strictly adhering to GMP regulations, SOPs, and corporate standards. The Director manages internal and outsourced staff (~18 personnel from third‑party service providers) supporting ~6,000 site‑based colleagues. Responsibilities extend to overseeing pest control program management, ensuring all documentation is audit and inspection ready, and driving continuous improvement and innovation in logistics and warehousing operations. The role is focused on building a best‑in‑class program by leveraging partners, optimizing processes, deploying advanced technologies, and delivering operational excellence and superior customer service.
Key Responsibilities
GMP/Non‑GMP Shipping & Receiving
Manage all inbound and outbound shipments of GMP and non‑GMP materials, including inter‑site and international shipping, ensuring adherence to regulatory protocols and documentation.
Ensure GMP shipments meet temperature requirements using validated cold‑chain packaging and monitoring from receipt to transit.
Guarantee timely delivery of critical raw materials for manufacturing and R&D.
Coordinate closely with internal customers, vendors, and carriers for compliant delivery.
Oversee logistics management for the R&D Facility and BioCentre, and storage of capital equipment and FF&E, onsite and offsite.
Operational Management
Develop and enforce SOPs for all shipping, receiving, disposal, and pest prevention activities.
Lead initiatives to improve cycle time, compliance, and service levels.
Ensure all areas are compliant with AstraZeneca safety protocols and global trade guidelines.
Maintain systems to track all shipments, deliveries, and material disposition.
Serve as the point of contact during internal audits and external inspections.
Licensing, Permitting & Certifications
Ensure trainings and certifications for DOT, IATA, OSHA, and HazMat requirements are in place for all AZ and outsourced staff.
Maintain appropriate licenses and permits for GMP/non‑GMP and import/export regulations, covering standard biologics, potent APIs/PAPIs, infectious substances, diagnostic/clinical specimens, controlled substances, investigational products, and radiolabeled biologics.
Pest Control Program
Oversee pest control to meet GMP and corporate requirements.
Ensure prompt identification and completion of corrective actions for regulatory audits.
Maintain all pest control documentation for regulatory inspections.
Leadership & Compliance
Direct, develop, and train the shipping and receiving team.
Strategize with quality, facilities, safety, health, and environmental partners to align operations with standards.
Act as primary contact for agencies during inspections related to import/export and warehousing.
Oversee third‑party partner relationships to ensure service quality and compliance.
Compliance, Digital Technology & AI
Utilize AI‑enabled platforms to enhance operations, decision making, and compliance.
Ensure operational datasets are accurate, structured, and compliant for AI/ML applications.
Evaluate and integrate emerging technologies into GMP/non‑GMP operations.
Champion adoption of digital tools and coach teams for continuous improvement.
Qualifications
Education & Experience
Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Logistics, Business Administration, Life Sciences, or related field; advanced degree preferred.
8–10 years in logistics/supply chain management, with at least 5 years in a GMP‑regulated leadership role.
Strong knowledge of GDP, GMP, FDA, and international shipping regulations; experience with cold‑chain and temperature monitoring systems.
Skills & Competencies
Influence and stakeholder management across all organizational levels.
Critical thinking and data‑driven decision making to inform operational strategies.
Strategic planning and partner oversight aligned with business objectives.
Financial acumen to oversee OPEX budget and inform CAPEX planning.
Team building and effective communication at all levels.
Proficiency with ERP systems, shipping software, and Microsoft Office Suite.
Physical Requirements
Occasionally lift up to 50 lbs.
Work in warehouse, shipping/receiving, and office environments.
Occasional travel for vendor and regulatory meetings may be required.
Why AstraZeneca? At AstraZeneca we’re dedicated to being a Great Place to Work, empowering you to push the boundaries of science and unleash your entrepreneurial spirit. There’s no better place to make a difference to medicine, patients, and society. Our inclusive culture champions diversity and collaboration, and we’re committed to lifelong learning, growth, and development. We’re on an exciting journey to pioneer the future of healthcare.
What’s Next? Are you already imagining yourself joining our team? Good, because we can’t wait to hear from you!
Salary and Benefits Annual base pay ranges from $135,200.00 to $202,800.00 USD. In addition, short‑term incentive bonuses, eligibility for our equity‑based long‑term incentive program, retirement contributions, paid vacation, holidays, and comprehensive health benefits are offered. Additional details will be provided upon offer.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement 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.
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Director, R&D Logistics and Distribution Operations
role at
AstraZeneca
The Director, R&D Logistics and Distribution Operations leads all end-to-end warehousing, shipping, and receiving activities for GMP and non‑GMP materials at a pharmaceutical R&D facility, including incoming/outgoing material logistics at a North American BioCentre and global import/export operations. This role ensures compliant and efficient timed movement of materials—temperature‑controlled shipments, raw material deliveries, and disposals—while strictly adhering to GMP regulations, SOPs, and corporate standards. The Director manages internal and outsourced staff (~18 personnel from third‑party service providers) supporting ~6,000 site‑based colleagues. Responsibilities extend to overseeing pest control program management, ensuring all documentation is audit and inspection ready, and driving continuous improvement and innovation in logistics and warehousing operations. The role is focused on building a best‑in‑class program by leveraging partners, optimizing processes, deploying advanced technologies, and delivering operational excellence and superior customer service.
Key Responsibilities
GMP/Non‑GMP Shipping & Receiving
Manage all inbound and outbound shipments of GMP and non‑GMP materials, including inter‑site and international shipping, ensuring adherence to regulatory protocols and documentation.
Ensure GMP shipments meet temperature requirements using validated cold‑chain packaging and monitoring from receipt to transit.
Guarantee timely delivery of critical raw materials for manufacturing and R&D.
Coordinate closely with internal customers, vendors, and carriers for compliant delivery.
Oversee logistics management for the R&D Facility and BioCentre, and storage of capital equipment and FF&E, onsite and offsite.
Operational Management
Develop and enforce SOPs for all shipping, receiving, disposal, and pest prevention activities.
Lead initiatives to improve cycle time, compliance, and service levels.
Ensure all areas are compliant with AstraZeneca safety protocols and global trade guidelines.
Maintain systems to track all shipments, deliveries, and material disposition.
Serve as the point of contact during internal audits and external inspections.
Licensing, Permitting & Certifications
Ensure trainings and certifications for DOT, IATA, OSHA, and HazMat requirements are in place for all AZ and outsourced staff.
Maintain appropriate licenses and permits for GMP/non‑GMP and import/export regulations, covering standard biologics, potent APIs/PAPIs, infectious substances, diagnostic/clinical specimens, controlled substances, investigational products, and radiolabeled biologics.
Pest Control Program
Oversee pest control to meet GMP and corporate requirements.
Ensure prompt identification and completion of corrective actions for regulatory audits.
Maintain all pest control documentation for regulatory inspections.
Leadership & Compliance
Direct, develop, and train the shipping and receiving team.
Strategize with quality, facilities, safety, health, and environmental partners to align operations with standards.
Act as primary contact for agencies during inspections related to import/export and warehousing.
Oversee third‑party partner relationships to ensure service quality and compliance.
Compliance, Digital Technology & AI
Utilize AI‑enabled platforms to enhance operations, decision making, and compliance.
Ensure operational datasets are accurate, structured, and compliant for AI/ML applications.
Evaluate and integrate emerging technologies into GMP/non‑GMP operations.
Champion adoption of digital tools and coach teams for continuous improvement.
Qualifications
Education & Experience
Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Logistics, Business Administration, Life Sciences, or related field; advanced degree preferred.
8–10 years in logistics/supply chain management, with at least 5 years in a GMP‑regulated leadership role.
Strong knowledge of GDP, GMP, FDA, and international shipping regulations; experience with cold‑chain and temperature monitoring systems.
Skills & Competencies
Influence and stakeholder management across all organizational levels.
Critical thinking and data‑driven decision making to inform operational strategies.
Strategic planning and partner oversight aligned with business objectives.
Financial acumen to oversee OPEX budget and inform CAPEX planning.
Team building and effective communication at all levels.
Proficiency with ERP systems, shipping software, and Microsoft Office Suite.
Physical Requirements
Occasionally lift up to 50 lbs.
Work in warehouse, shipping/receiving, and office environments.
Occasional travel for vendor and regulatory meetings may be required.
Why AstraZeneca? At AstraZeneca we’re dedicated to being a Great Place to Work, empowering you to push the boundaries of science and unleash your entrepreneurial spirit. There’s no better place to make a difference to medicine, patients, and society. Our inclusive culture champions diversity and collaboration, and we’re committed to lifelong learning, growth, and development. We’re on an exciting journey to pioneer the future of healthcare.
What’s Next? Are you already imagining yourself joining our team? Good, because we can’t wait to hear from you!
Salary and Benefits Annual base pay ranges from $135,200.00 to $202,800.00 USD. In addition, short‑term incentive bonuses, eligibility for our equity‑based long‑term incentive program, retirement contributions, paid vacation, holidays, and comprehensive health benefits are offered. Additional details will be provided upon offer.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement 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.
#J-18808-Ljbffr