Associate Director, CMC Operations at Ardelyx

Description Ardelyx is a publicly traded commercial biopharmaceutical company founded with a mission to discover, develop and commercialize innovative first-in-class medicines that meet significant unmet medical needs. Ardelyx has two commercial products approved in the United States, IBSRELA (tenapanor) and XPHOZAH (tenapanor). Ardelyx has agreements for the development and commercialization of tenapanor outside of the U.S. Kyowa Kirin commercializes PHOZEVEL (tenapanor) for hyperphosphatemia in Japan. A New Drug Application for tenapanor for hyperphosphatemia has been approved in China with Fosun Pharma. Knight Therapeutics commercializes IBSRELA in Canada.Position Summary:The Associate Director, CMC Operations will lead and coordinate cross-functional activities within the Chemistry, Manufacturing, and Controls (CMC) organization to ensure timely execution of pharmaceutical development, manufacturing, and regulatory deliverables. This role will serve as the operational hub between Technical Operations, Quality, Regulatory Affairs, Analytical Development, Supply Chain, and external partners (CDMOs/CMOs), driving alignment, accountability, and on-time delivery of CMC objectives from clinical through commercial stages.Responsibilities:Develop, maintain, and manage detailed CMC project timelines across product lifecycle phases (development, validation, technology transfer, registration, and commercial supply)Lead and facilitate cross-functional meetings, ensuring clear communication of priorities, risks, and deliverablesMonitor project progress and proactively identify and mitigate risks to ensure adherence to timelines and budgetsLead scenario planning and "what-if" analyses to support strategic decision-makingAct as the primary operational liaison between Technical Operations, Quality, Regulatory, Analytical, and Supply Chain teamsOversee change controls and resolution of technical and logistical issues by partnering with external CMOs/CDMOs to align project milestonesSupport governance and communication with senior management through regular project updates and dashboardsEnsure alignment of CMC documentation with regulatory and quality expectations (e.g., IND / NDA submissions)Maintain up-to-date project documentation, decision logs, and meeting summariesDrive process improvement initiatives to optimize CMC workflows, document review cycles, and communication with partnersContribute to development of best practices, templates, and metrics within the Technical Operations organizationQualifications:Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chemical Engineering, or related field preferred with 8 - 10 years of experience in pharmaceutical or biotech industry or equivalent experience3+ years in CMC project management or related technical operations roleStrong understanding of drug substance and/or drug product development, technology transfer, and GMP manufacturingExperience managing external partners (CMOs/CDMOs)Working knowledge of regulatory CMC requirements (FDA, ICH)Exceptional organizational and communication skills with ability to lead through influenceProficiency with project management tools (MS Project, Smartsheet, or equivalent)Strong problem-solving, critical thinking, and risk management skillsAbility to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment with shifting prioritiesThe anticipated annualized base pay range for this full-time position is $178,000-$200,000. Ardelyx utilizes industry data to ensure that our compensation is competitive and aligned with our industry peers. Actual base pay will be determined based on a variety of factors, including years of relevant experience, training, qualifications, and internal equity. The compensation package may also include an annual bonus target and equity awards, subject to eligibility and other requirements.Ardelyx also offers a robust benefits package to employees, including a 401(k) plan with generous employer match, 12 weeks of paid parental leave, up to 12 weeks of living organ and bone marrow leave, equity incentive plans, health plans (medical, prescription drug, dental, and vision),life insurance and disability, flexible time off, annual Winter Holiday shut down, and at least 11 paid holidays.Ardelyx is an equal opportunity employer.