Director, Oncology Applied Genetics

GlaxoSmithKline ,
Stevenage, Hertfordshire

Overview

Job Description

GSK's aspiration is to become the industry leader in genetically validated targets. A dedicated organization, Human Genetics (HG) has been created to achieve this, harnessing recent scientific advancements with a focus on human-derived data and leveraging external partnerships to translate genetic information to high quality targets, ultimately resulting in better medicines with reduced attrition. Applied Genetics defines and drives Human Genetics strategy to maximize the impact of genetic and related genomic data on GSK R&D. To be effective, you will develop and maintain inclusive and empowered partnerships with Human Genetic projects and discipline/capability leaders and influence senior management in Research, Medicinal Science and Technology (MST), and Development. You will bring in-depth experience in genetic and genomic science with a particular focus on oncology, strategy, and matrix management to ensure R&D projects receive a consistently high standard of genetic assessment. Breadth and depth of technical and leadership expertise across the discovery and development phases is required to support projects through all phases. Key Responsibilities include: Developing an effective partnership with Oncology Research Units (RUs) and establish a genetically-driven pipeline strategy based on joint objectives for Oncology RUs, and where appropriate, Oncology Development programs. Leadership of Human Genetics aligned matrix teams to deliver these strategies and objectives. Ability to design, implement and deliver scientific strategy in support of the oncology therapy area, with recognized track record of initiating projects and delivering data which had the potential to impact decision-making. Ensure incorporation of genetic evidence into Research and where appropriate Development decision making, particularly with respect to C2TV (commit to Target Validation), C2T (Commit to Target) and indication choice. Integrate external genetic research opportunities, in particular, with 23andMe, into Oncology RUs. Lead GSK/23andMe workstreams where appropriate. In partnership with Human Genetics and other Applied Genetics managers, may also lead the design and delivery of projects. Influence senior management and decision makers across Oncology on genetic assessments of new targets and existing assets. Ability to identify talent, coach/mentor and develop staff. Promote transparency and communicate R&D achievements through publications in appropriate scientific journals. Why you? Basic Qualifications: We are looking for professionals with these required skills to achieve our goals: PhD in human genetics, genomics, or biostatistics and experience in the oncology therapeutic area. Recognized leader with strong scientific expertise. Significant experience leading a multi-functional group responsible for delivering project-oriented support in genetics, genomics, or related discipline. Extensive knowledge of genetics and translation into biological function, and ability to apply their experience to drug discovery and development. Track record of managing complex technical, scientific and operational activities and in nurturing, developing and motivating high performance teams. Preferred Qualifications: If you have the following characteristics, it would be a plus: PhD in human genetics, genomics, or biostatistics with considerable academic or industry experience in the oncology therapeutic area. Subject matter expert in human genetics and applying genetics within oncology therapeutic area. Strong leadership skills demonstrating vision and strategy and effective leadership of change. Track record of influencing senior management for resource or financial allocation. Exceptional communication skills to have honest, truth seeking conversations, rather than being progression seeking. Building trust and teamwork. Use empathetic listening and conflict management resolution skills to show team members how the enterprise goals align with their own interests. Ability to work routinely across boundaries and establish cross functional matrix groups. Ability to coach/mentor, develop and performance manage staff. Exhibits strong GSK-aligned behaviors and expectations. Strong external profile and KOL. Complexity: You will operate within a fast-paced environment, handling changes as they occur and flexing plans to accommodate often conflicting priorities. You will build effective relationships in order to influence and persuade other individuals at all levels to ensure adherence to agreed timelines and deliverables. High degree of matrix working within Human Genetics and R&D partners requires generous and inclusive leadership combined with clear decision-making processes. Why GSK? Our values and expectations are at the heart of everything we do and form an important part of our culture. These include Patient focus, Transparency, Respect, Integrity along with Courage, Accountability, Development, and Teamwork. As GSK focuses on our values an