Associate Director Analytical Research & Development

Introduction to Ardena

As a leading Contract Development and Manufacturing Organization (CDMO), Ardena partners with pharmaceutical companies of all sizes—from emerging biotech to global industry leaders—united by the mission to help biopharma innovators navigate drug development with precision, quality, and speed, bringing their molecules from discovery to the clinic and market. Our fully integrated services span drug substance and drug product development, manufacturing, nanomedicine, clinical logistics, bioanalytical services, state research, fill & finish, and CMC regulatory support.

With a rapidly growing international footprint, Ardena is home to over 750 professionals across six strategic locations—Belgium (Ghent), the Netherlands (Oss and Assen), Sweden (Södertälje), Spain (Pamplona), and Somerset, New Jersey (the US). Our open and transparent culture is built on collaboration, ownership, and innovation, guided by our We CARE values. We foster a communicative environment where mutual respect, accountability, and excellence empower our team.

We are looking for skilled and motivated professionals eager to grow their careers in an exciting and fast-paced environment. Whether you’re an experienced expert or just starting out, Ardena provides a dynamic workplace where you can contribute to meaningful drug development projects, expand your knowledge, and be part of a global team committed to making a difference. As an international organization, we help you navigate a career path that expands your possibilities beyond borders, opening doors to personal and professional growth without limits. Your potential to grow is limitless with us.

If you are ready to take on new opportunities, work alongside industry experts, and contribute to the future of medicine, Ardena is the place for you.

For the Ardena Business Unit based in Somerset (US), we are looking for an Associate Director, Analytical Research and Development

(Salary Range - $140,000 - $160,000)

WHAT YOU WILL WORK ON

YOUR ROLE

The Associate Director, Analytical Research & Development (AR&D) provides senior leadership in analytical method development, validation, and lifecycle management to support early- and late-stage product development in a dynamic CDMO environment. Working closely with the Director of Product Development, this role ensures scientific excellence, operational efficiency, client satisfaction, and regulatory compliance across a diverse portfolio from preclinical through commercial manufacturing.

YOUR KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Lead analytical method development, validation, and lifecycle management for small molecules and other modalities.

Oversee multiple client projects, ensuring technical quality, GMP / GLP compliance, and on-time delivery.

Serve as the primary client-facing AR&D representative, maintaining strong relationships through proactive communication, transparency, and delivery excellence.

Collaborate with Formulation, Manufacturing, QA / QC, Regulatory, and Project Management teams to meet technical and business objectives.

Provide scientific and people leadership, mentoring scientists and group leaders to foster innovation and performance.

Support strategic planning, budgeting, and continuous improvement to enhance AR&D capabilities and scalability.

YOUR PROFILE

PhD in Chemistry, Biochemistry, or related field with minimum 8+ years of experience (including 4+ in leadership), or

MSc with 12+ years of relevant experience (including 6+ in management).

Proven experience in a regulated pharmaceutical or CDMO environment.

Strong expertise in analytical development, method validation, and regulatory compliance.

Excellent client management, customer service, and communication skills with the ability to translate complex scientific concepts for diverse audiences

Demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional teams and deliver results under tight timelines.

Experience with ELN, LIMS, and data-driven process optimization preferred.

Lean Six Sigma certification is an asset.

WHAT WE OFFER

At Ardena, we recognize that our people drive our success. We offer :

HOW TO APPLY

Want to know more? Contact [Hiring Manager Name] at [Email] or call [Phone Number].

Ready to start your career path with Ardena? Click the application button and join us in shaping the future of drug development!