VP, Head of Preclinical Development

Legend Biotech is a global biotechnology company dedicated to treating and, one day, curing life-threatening diseases. Headquartered in Bridgewater, New Jersey, we are advancing the next generation of cell therapy through a portfolio of innovative technologies, including autologous, allogeneic, and in vivo cell therapy approaches. Our research spans chimeric antigen receptor T-cell (CAR-T), T-cell receptor (TCR-T), natural killer (NK) cell-based therapies, and other emerging platforms designed to transform the treatment of serious diseases. From our global network of research and development sites, we are committed to discovering and developing safe, effective, and cutting-edge therapies for patients worldwide. Legend Biotech entered into a global collaboration agreement with Johnson & Johnson to jointly develop and commercialize CARVYKTI® (ciltacabtagene autoleucel; cilta-cel). Through this strategic partnership, we combine complementary expertise and capabilities to advance innovative immunotherapies for patients living with multiple myeloma. Legend Biotech is seeking a VP, Head of Preclinical Development as part of the Early Drug Development team based in Somerset, NJ . Role Overview Legend Biotech is a clinical-stage biotech company developing cell therapies for hematological malignancies, solid tumors and autoimmune diseases. We are seeking an exceptional scientist-leader to serve as Vice President, Head of Preclinical Development. This is a senior, externally visible leadership role accountable for the full preclinical development program across in vitro pharmacology, in vivo pharmacology, and toxicology for all pipeline compounds globally. The person will build and lead a high-performing, integrated team, set scientific standards for the organization, and serve as the internal authority and external face for preclinical science across regulatory, partnership, and publication contexts. Key Responsibilities Define and execute the preclinical development strategy across all pipeline program globally from candidate nomination through IND-enabling studies. Serve as the internal scientific authority on in vitro pharmacology, in vivo pharmacology, and toxicology — setting methodological standards, experimental design principles, and data interpretation frameworks. Lead preclinical science for novel modalities including lentiviral vector-based in vivo CAR-T, ex vivo cell therapies, and gene-modified immune cell platforms, with deep understanding of the unique preclinical characterization requirements of each Integrate preclinical datasets (PK, PD, safety, biodistribution etc) into coherent compound narratives that inform clinical development strategy, dose selection, and regulatory submissions. Contribute to portfolio decisions by providing rigorous preclinical risk assessments for new candidates, partnership assets, and lifecycle management opportunities. Own the preclinical component of IND applications, accountable for integrated pharmacology and toxicology summaries, study tabulations, and the Written Summary of nonclinical pharmacology and toxicology. Build, lead, and develop a high-performing Preclinical Development team comprising in vitro pharmacology scientists, in vivo pharmacology scientists, and toxicologists — both internal staff and embedded CRO personnel. Set a culture of scientific excellence, objectivity, and regulatory integrity — where data are interpreted accurately regardless of programme pressure and where safety signals are escalated promptly and without bias. Mentor and develop team members at all levels; create individual development plans, provide regular performance feedback, and support career progression. Requirements PhD in pharmacology, toxicology, immunology, cell biology, or a closely related discipline. Minimum 15 years of progressive experience in preclinical drug development, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role with direct accountability for IND-enabling programs. Deep expertis…