Regional R&d Director (ruminants)

Merck Merck · Pharma · North Brabant, Netherlands

Merck is seeking a Regional R&D Director for their Ruminants division. This leadership role involves managing, coaching, and developing a team of 13 scientists in Boxmeer, NL. The director will be responsible for biological research and development, leading to the timely launch of commercially viable Ruminants Biologicals. The role requires a PhD in life sciences with significant experience in vaccine development for animal health, proven team management skills, and a results-driven, innovative mindset. Collaboration with global teams in Marketing, Commercial, Manufacturing, Regulatory Affairs, and Legal is essential.

What you'd actually do

  1. managing, coaching and developing the Regional R&D Ruminants team in Boxmeer (13 employees, 3 direct reports)
  2. accountable and financially responsible for biological research and development within the field of Ruminants Biologicals in the region, leading to the timely launch of commercially viable Ruminants Biologicals
  3. contribute to the Global Strategic vision with regard to the current and future product needs of customers and in line with our overall company strategy
  4. formulate new initiatives and are ultimately responsible for the timely progression of product development according to agreed plans, milestones, budget and company guidelines
  5. close collaboration with the Regional R&D Lead (Ruminants) in the US and our regional and global leaders in Marketing, Commercial, Manufacturing, Regulatory Affairs and Legal (IP)

Skills

Required

  • PhD in life sciences
  • several years of industrial experience
  • developing vaccines for animal health
  • managing and developing a team
  • complex, international and relevant organization
  • Results-driven
  • innovative mindset
  • curiosity about emerging technologies
  • practical implementation
  • developing and managing project plans
  • setting clear objectives, budgets and timelines
  • allocating resources effectively
  • adapt to changing circumstances
  • learn quickly
  • stay updated on the latest scientific and technical advancements
  • collaborate with external academic partners
  • positive outlook
  • multidisciplinary teams
  • multicultural, global organizations
  • Strong command of English

Nice to have

  • solid understanding of the husbandry of commercial ruminant species (dairy and beef cattle, sheep and goats)
  • veterinary degree
  • Dutch language skills, or willingness to learn Dutch

What the JD emphasized

  • PhD in life sciences, followed by several years of industrial experience, gaining significant experience in developing vaccines for animal health
  • Proven track record of managing and developing a team of highly skilled scientists in a complex, international and relevant organization
  • curiosity about emerging technologies
  • stay updated on the latest scientific and technical advancements