Vice President- Research Unit Cell & Gene Therapy - Oncology

GlaxoSmithKline ,
Stevenage, Hertfordshire
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Are you keen to want to lead a large oncology research unit focused on cell therapy target evaluation through early clinical evaluation? If so, then this VP position is one to consider closely? GSK Oncology R&D is focused on building industry-leading portfolios in four cutting-edge areas of science: Immuno-Oncology : using the human immune system to treat cancer Cell/Gene Therapy : engineering human T-cells to target cancer Cancer Epigenetics : modulating the gene-regulatory system of the epigenome to exert anti-cancer effects Synthetic Lethality : targeting two mechanisms at the same time which together, but not alone, have substantial effects against cancer Significant investment into external collaborations that add complementary and synergistic science and technology solutions to our portfolio are central to our R&D approach. We have established a partnership with Adaptimmune in 2014 that has led to the in-licensing and transfer of their NY-ESO TCR-T cell product and two technologies for efficacy enhancement to GSK. These assets are either in clinical testing (GEN1) or about to enter the clinical stage (GEN2). The collaboration is now focusing on two new early targets and novel TCRs. In 2016, we established a second partnership with Miltenyi Biotec that has delivered an innovative CAR- T cell product at candidate stage. This first in concept CAR is targeting tissue disorganisation as a hallmark of many epithelial cancers. Miltenyi Biotec is also our partner of choice for developing novel CMC supply chain solutions that make use of exact copy automation and closed-bag systems to maximise patient access and decrease cost of goods for engineered T cell batches. In 2019, we initiated a partnership with Lyell to pioneer novel technologies to overcome inhibition of T cell function in the solid cancer microenvironment. Our joint ambition is to maximise benefit for patients suffering from solid cancer by combining Lyell's technologies with GSK's targets and CMC supply solutions. We just recently announced our fourth collaboration with Immatics in which we secure access to innovative and highly differentiated TCR targets that have been discovered by systematic use of mass spectrometry on primary tumours. POSITION SUMMARY: This position reports directly to Dr. Axel Hoos and leads a large research unit focused on cell therapy target evaluation through early clinical evaluation. The role will develop the strategic objectives and focus the efforts of scientific teams to identify and prosecute novel genetically-validated targets, as well as integrating novel technologies to accelerate a transformation in Oncology.This leader will be responsible for effectively leveraging and leading functions in a matrixed environment to achieve organizational goals. He or she would bring a sterling reputation as a thought leader to maximize and drive opportunities in Oncology.The Research Unit Head will be required to lead, communicate and manage (directly and indirectly) a matrixed global organization with a diverse pool of employees. That headcount will be based mainly in the UK and US, but also in other countries. It is a group that is anticipated to quickly expand following successful achievement of clinical inflection points in common solid cancers. The Vice President should be prepared to scale his/her headcount leadership responsibilities following such a trigger point.This role will play a critical part in identifying targets that contribute to an innovative, world class, pipeline for GSK. It will require strong collaboration and influencing skills with complex, senior, internal and external stakeholder networks. RESPONSIBILITIES: Research Unit Develop strategic direction in a new and emerging area of oncology, Oncology Cell Therapy, and identify new targets, leveraging GSK's investments in external CGT collaborations and our expanding internal capabilities in large data, bioinformatics, and genomic technologies to deliver medicines in clinically and commercially relevant indications. Lead and drive internal teams of typically 20-30 cross-functional scientists in the identifying and prosecution of novel targets, technologies to enhance efficacy of engineered cell products as well as technologies to simplify and accelerate manufacturing of cell therapies Accountable for planning and contracting the resource and partnership required from key functions. Responsible for identifying and evaluating partnering opportunities in line with the strategy and playing a key role in the due diligence analysis. Operate as a key member of the Oncology Leadership team, working internally with others on the Oncology leadership team to drive the strategy, as well as externally acting as a spokesperson for GSK in the scientific community. Responsible for developing and managing a high performing team with outstanding talent. Accountable for role modelling and embedding the R&D Oncology strategy. Accountable for delivery from target ID through to

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