R&D Domain Architect

Job Title: R&D Domain Architect
Location: Deerfield, IL (Hybrid)
Duration: 12 Months

Role Overview

We are seeking a highly experienced R&D Domain Architect to lead the technology strategy and architecture across the end-to-end product development lifecycle. This role is responsible for translating R&D and enterprise growth strategies into scalable, compliant, and cost-efficient technology solutions.

You will play a key role in driving simplification, accelerating time-to-market, and enabling successful product launches within a regulated healthcare or life sciences environment.

Key Responsibilities

1. R&D Architecture Strategy

• Partner with R&D leadership to define target operating models and capability roadmaps
• Lead architecture across product development, lab systems, design, testing, and regulatory compliance
• Align systems and processes across clinical, regulatory, manufacturing, and commercial functions
• Build value-driven roadmaps focused on cost savings and long-term simplification

2. Solution & Platform Leadership

• Provide architecture leadership for large-scale R&D programs and platforms
• Drive standardization across product lifecycle management (PLM) and project portfolio management (PPM) tools
• Ensure integration with Commercial and Finance systems for pricing, costing, and launch readiness
• Maintain compliance with regulatory, validation, and data integrity standards

3. Portfolio Simplification & Cost Optimization

• Evaluate application landscape for consolidation and rationalization opportunities
• Standardize workflows across divisions to reduce redundancy and improve efficiency
• Collaborate with Finance to track and realize cost savings
• Embed automation and cost discipline into architecture decisions

4. Governance & Decision Support

• Represent R&D in enterprise architecture and investment governance forums
• Enable fast, consistent decision-making without hindering innovation
• Identify cross-functional risks, dependencies, and readiness gaps early

Success Metrics

• Measurable cost savings across the R&D technology portfolio
• Approved multi-year modernization and simplification roadmap
• Reduced system complexity and improved standardization
• Faster time-to-market and improved product launch readiness
• Enhanced visibility into portfolio and investment decisions

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in IT, Engineering, Life Sciences, or related field
• 10+ years of experience in enterprise/domain/solution architecture
• Strong experience in R&D, product development, or life sciences environments
• Proven track record in portfolio simplification and cost optimization
• Deep understanding of regulated environments (GxP, compliance, validation)
• Excellent stakeholder management and executive communication skills

Leadership Profile

• Outcome-driven with an enterprise mindset
• Strong understanding of the full product lifecycle
• Balances innovation, compliance, and cost effectively
• Influential leader capable of aligning cross-functional teams