Associate Director Automation and Innovation Team

The Position

Boehringer Ingelheim is seeking an inspiring and forward-thinking leader to spearhead innovation and automation in drug discovery. As the Head of the Global Discovery Sciences Automation and Innovation Team (gDS-AIT), you will play a pivotal role in redefining scientific processes, fostering groundbreaking discoveries, and empowering multidisciplinary teams. This is a unique opportunity to lead with vision, drive meaningful change, and make a lasting impact on global health and patient care.

This position is part time eligible with min. 80%.

Tasks & responsibilities

  • In this pivotal role, you will lead the development of cutting-edge automation strategies, seamlessly integrating AI and machine learning technologies to support Drug Discovery Sciences (DDS) and Boehringer Ingelheim’s global research portfolio across all therapeutic areas and development phases.
  • You will serve as a strategic advisor to the DDS leadership team and associated groups, identifying and championing automation opportunities that drive scientific and operational excellence.
  • Together with your team, you will design and implement forward-looking automation initiatives in close collaboration with subject matter experts and key internal partners, transforming innovative ideas into impactful capabilities that enhance the efficiency of DDS disciplines.
  • Your team will also be responsible for the continuous refinement of automation solutions, ensuring they evolve in step with the dynamic needs of our DDS community.
  • In partnership with both internal stakeholders and external collaborators (e.g., technology providers, academic institutions), you will evaluate, adopt, and promote novel technologies and methodologies to maintain a leading edge in automation and innovation.
  • You will foster a culture of transparency, collaboration, and knowledge sharing—ensuring effective workload distribution and the dissemination of best practices across teams and functions.
  • As a people leader, you will inspire, mentor, and develop your team, identifying and nurturing talent to build a high-performing, future-ready organization.

Requirements

  • PhD in natural sciences or engineering with several years of professional experience or longstanding experience as MSc in automation or process engineering
  • Experience in leading people as well as experience working in matrix environments and multidisciplinary, cross-functional, global teams
  • Expert in (lab) automation with a successful track record of influencing drug discovery / automation projects and driving innovative approaches; knowledge of the drug discovery process is a plus
  • Profound understanding of state-of-the-art automation technologies, including lab automation, mobile robotics, and AI/ML
  • Strong team player with a commitment to share knowledge through mentoring and team development
  • Excellent communication skills to communicate effectively with internal and external stakeholders
  • Fluent in German and English

Ready to contact us? 

If you have any questions about the job posting or process - please contact our HR Direct Team, Tel: +49 (0) 6132 77-3330 or via mail: hr.de@boehringer-ingelheim.com

Recruitment process:
Step 1: Online application - The job posting is presumably online until July, 23th 2025.
Step 2: Virtual meeting till end of July.
Step 3: On-site interviews beginning of August.

Please submit your application documents in English.

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