VP of AI and Engineering

We are seeking a strategic leader to fill the role of VP, AI and Engineering. This individual will be responsible for leading and scaling a best-in-class AI, software, data, and quality engineering organization in India and across a global network. The role is accountable for delivering AI-infused applications and technology products that accelerate medicine and vaccine development and supercharge internal capabilities.

Roles and Responsibilities

• Develop and Scale the Engineering Organization:
• Attract, develop, and retain engineering talent across various disciplines, including AI, software, data analytics, and quality engineering.
• Manage and scale a team of technology professionals, ensuring the right talent mix to meet business demands.
• Upskill the organization on new technologies and manage strategic third-party vendors for talent and capacity.
• Implement best practices and standards for all engineering disciplines.
• Oversee High-Performing Technology Delivery:
• Partner with digital and tech product leaders to understand priorities, manage demand, and maintain product roadmaps.
• Staff engineering resources to deliver prioritized initiatives.
• Drive DevOps, DataOps, and MLOps platforms to enhance engineering productivity and automated testing.
• Provide Regional Tech Leadership:
• Lead and manage the day-to-day operations of the site-based team, ensuring alignment with global strategic objectives.
• Oversee end-to-end technology projects, including software development and product delivery.
• Monitor industry trends and emerging technologies to ensure the site remains competitive and innovative.
• Foster a culture of collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement.
• Manage Stakeholder Communication and Risk:
• Maintain strong relationships with senior leadership, product teams, and other global stakeholders.
• Provide regular updates on performance, risks, and opportunities.
• Ensure the organization complies with relevant legal, regulatory, and company policies.

Skills Required

• Experience in technology or operations leadership roles, specifically managing a tech team in a regional or similar market.
• A proven track record of leading a technology organization within a pharma services or life sciences company (e.g., CRO, professional services, biotech/biopharma).
• Proven experience in leading cross-functional teams and delivering complex, global, end-to-end technology projects.
• Experience leveraging data, analytics, and AI to develop new products and services.
• The ability to transform legacy technology and digital teams into a highly efficient, disciplined, delivery-oriented organization.
• Experience managing both technical and operational aspects of a global business with teams in different geographic locations.
• Experience leading a technology organization that provides both product development and SaaS solutions with a broad range of technologies such as Python, Java, Apex, Databricks, Workday, Oracle Fusion, ServiceNow, SalesForce, Veeva CRM, Veeva Vault Clinical, Microsoft Azure, AWS, and Oracle OCI.
• Strong leadership and team-building abilities.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Deep understanding of modern software, AI, and data development methodologies, including Agile, DevOps, DataOps, and MLOps.
• Strong business acumen, including the ability to manage budgets, resources, and operational performance.
• Experience in a global or multi-site organization is highly desirable.