Interim Head Network Strategy

We are seeking an experienced Head of Network Strategy to lead the strategic selection and optimization of our Decentralized Manufacturing Units (DMUs) and Clinical Trial Sites (CTS) across either the European Union. This temporary assignment will play a critical role in aligning our manufacturing and clinical infrastructure with business needs, ensuring efficient, risk-mitigated, and cost-effective operations for both development and commercial success.

You will be responsible for forecasting demand, evaluating capacity, and monitoring key performance metrics across our cell therapy network. This includes overseeing site selection strategies, managing relationships with CMOs and CTSs, and ensuring our operational footprint is optimized for innovation and scalability.

Additional Insights:

• Location: Preference for hybrid work in Leiden (NL) for the EU role
• Remote considered only for exceptional candidates with strong end-to-end cell therapy expertise.
• Start date: ASAP
• Contract duration: 6 months

Company Description:

Galapagos is a biotechnology company committed to discovering and developing transformational medicines. With operations in both the U.S. and Europe, we focus on high unmet medical needs in immunology and oncology, including a strong pipeline of small molecules, biologics, and CAR-T cell therapies. Our decentralized CAR-T manufacturing network reflects our ambition to challenge the status quo and bring life-changing treatments to patients worldwide.

Experience:

• Degree in biomedical sciences, pharmaceutical sciences, (biomedical) engineering, or a related field
• 10+ years of experience in cell therapy, spanning both clinical research and GMP manufacturing environments
• Proven experience managing relationships with Clinical Trial Sites and Contract Manufacturing Organizations
• Strong understanding of site selection strategy, supply/demand planning, and performance monitoring in a regulated biotech environment

Desirable Requirements:

• Prior experience in a global or multi-site leadership role within cell therapy
• Exposure to both early-stage and commercial-stage manufacturing and clinical programs
• Familiarity with hybrid and decentralized manufacturing models