Vir Biotechnology, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on powering the immune system to transform lives by discovering and developing medicines for serious infectious diseases and cancer. Vir’s clinical-stage portfolio includes infectious disease programs for chronic hepatitis delta and chronic hepatitis B infections, in addition to multiple oncology programs. Vir also has a preclinical portfolio of programs across a range of other infectious diseases and oncologic malignancies. 

We believe the success of our colleagues drives the success of our mission. We are committed to creating a company passionate about equality, inclusion, and respect. When everyone feels supported and encouraged to give their best, we will collectively deliver outstanding results.

The opportunity

Vir’s Research Strategic Planning and Operations (ReSPO) group is looking for an experienced team member to provide leadership in two important areas: (1) Research Portfolio and Research Governance management across our early- to late-stage research projects; and (2) building and driving the strategic planning, execution, and operational excellence of the Research Department, including key connections with internal partners.

This role reports directly to the Chief Operating Officer of Research. This role is located in our San Francisco headquarters with an expectation of 4 days per week in office.

What you’ll do

Operational Excellence:

• In partnership with the COO-R, oversee the daily operations of the Research Department, ensuring efficient workflows, establishment of necessary business processes in service of both department and project-related objective.
• Develop and implement best practices for strategic planning, research project management and operational processes.
• Monitor and report on department goals to track progress and identify areas for improvement.

Research Project Portfolio Management:

• Establish and maintain an integrated project portfolio for the Research Department.
• In partnership with the Research Portfolio Committee, CSO Leadership Team, and CSO Strategy Team, conduct regular portfolio reviews, prioritize projects, and make recommendations for resource allocation or project adjustments.
• Contribute to Research Governance matters, including the Research Portfolio Committee (Chair: CSO), Research Portfolio Reviews, and stage gate matters

Budget Management and Financial Reporting:

• In partnership with the COO-R, develop, manage, and monitor the research budget, ensuring alignment with strategic goals and financial constraints.
• In partnership with the COO-R, identify opportunities for cost savings and operational efficiencies within the Research Department

Internal and External Stakeholder Engagement:

• Build and reinforce relationships and business processes with key internal Partners

• Represent the Research Department in cross-functional meetings and initiatives.

• Contribute to the the management of ongoing external research institition and academic partnerships

Team Leadership and Development:

• In partnership with COO-R, mentor and develop a high-performing team of research project team leads to support research governance and stage gate progression
• Foster a collaborative team culture that aligns with the company’s values and mission.
• Implement development programs to enhance team capabilities.

Innovation and Continuous Improvement:

• Foster a culture of innovation within the Research Department by implementing advanced technologies, methodologies, and best practices.
• Lead continuous improvement initiatives to enhance research productivity, efficiency, and quality.

Who you are and what you bring

• Advanced degree (PhD, MD, MBA, or equivalent) in a relevant scientific or business discipline.
• Minimum of 10+ years of experience in research operations, strategic planning, or a related role within the biotech or pharmaceutical industry.
• Demonstrated experience in leading large, cross-functional teams and managing complex projects and/or department/enterprise initiatives, and influencing without authority.
• Ability to independently develop and execute strategic plans, with a proven track record of driving growth and innovation.
• Deep understanding of research processes, project management, and operational excellence.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a focus on data-driven decision-making.
• Role based in SF with expectation to be onsite 2-3 days per week