Associate Director, Product Development Science & Technology

AbbVie's mission is to discover and deliver innovative medicines and solutions that solve serious health issues today and address the medical challenges of tomorrow. We strive to have a remarkable impact on people's lives across several key therapeutic areas – immunology, oncology, neuroscience, and eye care – and products and services in our Allergan Aesthetics portfolio. For more information about AbbVie, please visit us at www.abbvie.com. Follow @abbvie on X, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn and Tik Tok.

We are excited to invite applications for the position of Associate Director, Product Development Science & Technology (PDS&T), based at AbbVie Westport.

As Associate Director, you will report to the Senior Director of PDS&T and lead a talented and experienced team of Process Scientists responsible for providing technical leadership, direction, and management for commercial manufacturing during new product development. You will oversee operational and commercial timelines and manage budgets for global projects and the team.

We are seeking a technical expert in late-stage process development with proven leadership experience, and ideally with a strong background in managing new product technology transfers.

This is a key leadership role, offering the opportunity to collaborate closely with Global PDS&T teams and support AbbVie’s diverse pipeline of innovative therapeutic biologics—from clinical proof of concept through to commercial launch.

In addition to a comprehensive compensation package—including long-term incentives, pension, a hybrid working model, and health and well-being benefits—you’ll be based in Westport, one of the Wild Atlantic Way's most picturesque and family-friendly towns.

If you are interested in this exciting opportunity and want to learn more, please apply and we will be in touch.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide technical leadership for multiple PDS&T projects, including financial planning, budgeting, timeline estimation, and execution.
• Implement global projects across AbbVie plants and marketed affiliates, including oversight of products manufactured at Third Party Manufacturers (TPMs).
• Deliver technical expertise for marketed products and represent the company in discussions with regulatory agencies. Decisions in this role significantly impact AbbVie’s global pharmaceutical operations.
• Support marketed products through the transfer of new chemical entities from R&D to manufacturing plants, process improvement efforts, and CMC support. Oversee the transfer of marketed products between manufacturing sites and TPMs, in line with global manufacturing and sourcing strategies.
• Lead teams handling complex technical projects impacting multiple plants and markets, ensuring global consistency and regulatory compliance.
• Engage with R&D, Operations, Quality, Commercial, Regulatory, and relevant technical support functions within AbbVie and at third-party manufacturers.
• Operate in a matrix environment to achieve PDS&T organizational objectives, including the seamless transfer of technologies, development of cost-effective and compliant processes, and uninterrupted customer support.
• Manage a technical team of scientists and technicians, from entry level to senior scientists, responsible for regulatory documentation and post-approval filings.
• Maintain comprehensive knowledge of global regulatory and GMP requirements, exhibit outstanding communication skills, and be willing to travel as required to support projects.

• Bachelor’s degree in a scientific or technical field (preferably Life Sciences, Pharmacy, or Engineering) required. Master’s degree and/or PhD preferred.
• 10 or more years in the pharmaceutical industry, with at least 5 years in a relevant support group. Experience supporting marketed products preferred.
• Proven managerial ability demonstrated through leadership, supervisory experience, and talent development.
• Strong understanding of global CMC drug development processes, sound management, and long-term planning skills.
• Excellent knowledge of international regulatory and GMP requirements.
• Goal-oriented, able to work well in a team environment, self-motivated, and capable of meeting business timelines.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, with an ability to interact across organizational areas.
• Previous experience in formulation/process and/or analytical service groups preferred.

AbbVie is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. We value diversity and inclusivity, believing that bringing together individuals from different backgrounds enhances innovation and fosters a supportive work environment.

AbbVie is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to operating with integrity, driving innovation, transforming lives and serving our community.  Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled. 

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