Director, Global Innovation

The Director, Global Innovation role at Lonza is focused on driving forward the company's position as a leading Contract Development and Manufacturing Organization (CDMO). Lonza specializes in manufacturing medicines, leveraging cutting-edge science and technology to develop innovative therapies. The main responsibilities of the Director, Global Innovation involve exploring and evaluating new technologies and business models. This includes assessing trends in biologics, advanced therapeutics, and other relevant fields. The role also involves leading assessments of opportunities, developing business cases, and making recommendations to senior leadership. Additionally, the director will manage a pipeline of opportunities, track progress, and collaborate with various teams to define and implement proof-of-concept objectives. To qualify for this position, candidates must have a master's degree or PhD in a relevant field such as life sciences, biotechnology, or bioprocess engineering, along with business education or substantial commercial experience. Strong scientific knowledge and commercial judgment are essential. Experience in assessing new technologies in a commercial setting, such as in business development or licensing, is required. Financial skills, including business case development and valuation, are also necessary. The role demands the ability to coordinate due diligence across various topics and to communicate complex information clearly to senior leaders. Nice-to-have skills include a collaborative approach and the ability to influence teams across different functions. A curiosity about emerging science and technology, along with strong external networking skills, is also beneficial. The role is based in Basel, Switzerland, offering an inclusive and ethical workplace where ideas are valued. Lonza emphasizes collaboration, accountability, excellence, passion, and integrity, fostering an environment where diverse backgrounds and perspectives are welcomed. What the role asks for: - A master's degree or PhD in life sciences, biotechnology, biochemistry, bioprocess engineering, pharmaceutical sciences or a related field, combined with business education or substantial commercial experience. - Strong scientific understanding of technologies relevant to pharmaceutical development and manufacturing, paired with sound commercial judgement. - Experience assessing the feasibility and business potential of new technologies in a commercial setting, such as business development, licensing, investment, strategy, CDMO services or a customer-facing technical role. - Financial skills, including business case development, valuation, NPV and IRR modelling, and scenario analysis. - Experience coordinating due diligence across scientific, commercial, operational, intellectual property, regulatory and financial topics. - Business-fluent English.