Introduction to role



The Global Materials Planning Lead will be responsible for all elements of planning cell therapy Direct and QC raw materials used in manufacturing, QC, and development across multiple manufacturing and development sites in the AstraZeneca cell therapy network. You will oversee all materials planning processes to support on-time delivery to patients. Reporting to the Senior Director, Cell Therapy Global Planning, this position is based in Santa Monica, CA, Los Angeles (Tarzana), CA, or Gaithersburg, MD with at least three days per week onsite. We balance the expectation of being in the office while respecting individual flexibility.



Accountabilities



- Set up and oversee global materials planning processes and systems across manufacturing sites, including assumptions management, Bill of Materials, inventory policy, master data, inventory management


- Establish people, process and systems capabilities for raw materials planning


- Develop Materials Planner planning cycle standard work and tools in alignment with S&OP


- Develop metrics reporting on supply, inventory, scrap, expiry across the network


- Participate and provide inputs to Global S&OP process


- Manage and report materials and supplier risks, mitigation plans. Manage trade-offs across manufacturing sites.


- Support supplier strategies and mid-term and long-range forecasting


- Manage change and variations management from introduction of new materials, second suppliers, tech transfers, and process improvements


- Collaborate with Purchasing for execution and follow-up of purchase orders to suppliers


- Analyze trends to develop and implement materials planning process improvements


- Work with site planner/buyers for site indirect materials


- Develop warehouse and inventory management network strategy across multiple warehouses


- Mature systems and process capabilities for inventory planning



Essential Skills/Experience



- Knowledgeable with cGxP and regulatory regulations and compliance requirements for cell therapy and pharmaceutical industry


- High proficiency in ERP (SAP preferred) and Planning Systems


- High proficiency in Microsoft Excel; experience with advanced functions and data analysis is a plus.


- Experience managing a team of direct reports


- Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills


- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to foster effective collaboration with internal teams and external suppliers.


- Professional certifications like CPIM or APICS are a plus



Required Education and Experience



- 10+ years with BS/BA, or 8+ years with MS/MA or MBA


- Direct experience and working knowledge in planning, materials requirements planning, production scheduling in the pharmaceutical or biotech industry, cell therapy preferred.


When we put unexpected teams in the same room, we unleash bold thinking with the power to inspire life-changing medicines. In-person working gives us the platform we need to connect, work at pace and challenge perceptions. That's why we work, on average, a minimum of three days per week from the office. But that doesn't mean we're not flexible. We balance the expectation of being in the office while respecting individual flexibility. Join us in our unique and ambitious world.


Be encouraged and supported to think creatively in our dynamic environment. Here we are free from fear of failure, free to ask the right questions and make bold decisions. It takes resilience to embody our entrepreneurial spirit. For those who thrive on experimentation, you'll get to work with knowns and unknowns. Exploring without limits.


Ready to make a difference? Apply now!


The annual base pay for this position ranges from $115,900 - $173,852. Base pay offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including market location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. In addition, our positions offer a short-term incentive bonus opportunity; eligibility to participate in our equity-based long-term incentive program (salaried roles), to receive a retirement contribution (hourly roles), and commission payment eligibility (sales roles). Benefits offered included a qualified retirement program [401(k) plan]; paid vacation and holidays; paid leaves; and, health benefits including medical, prescription drug, dental, and vision coverage in accordance with the terms and conditions of the applicable plans. Additional details of participation in these benefit plans will be provided if an employee receives an offer of employment. If hired, employee will be in an "at-will position" and the Company reserves the right to modify base pay (as well as any other discretionary payment or compensation program) at any time, including for reasons related to individual performance, Company or individual department/team performance, and market factors.


AstraZeneca embraces diversity and equality of opportunity. We are committed to building an inclusive and diverse team representing all backgrounds, with as wide a range of perspectives as possible, and harnessing industry-leading skills. We believe that the more inclusive we are, the better our work will be. We welcome and consider applications to join our team from all qualified candidates, regardless of their characteristics. We comply with all applicable laws and regulations on non-discrimination in employment (and recruitment), as well as work authorization and employment eligibility verification requirements.