Executive Director, Respiratory

About the role

The Executive Director, Respiratory will lead a laboratory‑based biology team to shape human‑centric translational strategies that bridge discovery and clinical development for key respiratory diseases. Reporting to the Respiratory and Immunology Research Unit leadership, you will drive the integration of biology, biomarkers and patient‑derived data to improve decision‑making across the portfolio.

Key responsibilities

• Define and execute a human‑first translational biology strategy for respiratory indications.
• Lead end‑to‑end integration of biology and translational science to validate targets and accelerate clinical translation.
• Develop and deploy advanced human‑relevant model systems such as primary cells, organoids, tissue platforms and biopsies.
• Advance disease strategies for COPD, bronchiectasis, allergy, IPF, ILD and pulmonary hypertension.
• Integrate multi‑omics, human tissue data and clinical insights to inform target differentiation.
• Build, mentor and manage a high‑performing line of biologists, both in‑house and through external partners.
• Design flexible resourcing models leveraging CROs and academic collaborations.

Required profile

• Proven leadership experience in translational biology within respiratory or related therapeutic areas.
• Deep understanding of human disease biology and biomarker development.
• Track record of delivering human‑relevant models that inform clinical decisions.
• Experience working in a matrixed, global research environment.

Required skills

• Human primary cell culture
• Organoid and tissue‑engineered model development
• Multi‑omics data integration
• Biomarker identification and validation

What we offer

• Opportunity to shape a world‑leading respiratory portfolio.
• Access to state‑of‑the‑art research facilities and global collaborations.
• Leadership role within a leading pharmaceutical company.