Director, Global Library Services

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Job Description

OBJECTIVES & PURPOSES:  

• Lead the transformation of Global Library Services into a digital first, data-enabling capability that powers scientific decision-making across R&D

• Update end-to-end processes involved in Library Services from user requests, assessment of content needs, development of deliverables and delivery of consumable artifacts to modern standards.

• Align library services and systems with Takeda’s enterprise and R&D digital and data strategy, including integration with AI, automation, and scalable delivery platforms.

• Oversee global operations, vendor partnerships and knowledge platforms to ensure timely, compliant and cost-effective access to scientific and technical information.

• Serve as a subject matter expert and thought leader on digital library trends, scholarly publishing, and the copyright-compliant use of artificial intelligence throughout Takeda.

• Lead the integration of innovative knowledge management technologies, such as machine learning and natural language processing, to transform library services and drive impactful scientific decision-making.

ACCOUNTABILITIES AND CORE ELEMENTS RELATED TO THIS ROLE:  

• Senior-most leader within Library Services acting as Takeda’s representative for external partnerships and high-profile internal collaborations.

• Drive the design and implementation of engagement initiatives and feedback loops to ensure continuous improvement in library services and user satisfaction.

• Strong scientific, bibliographic, and technical background to scope and align the Library mission within the R&D DD&T strategy and stakeholder requirements.

• Lead the transition from traditional library systems to advanced digital platforms ensuring seamless integration with pharmaceutical industry standards.

• Responsible for managing a complex budget, including negotiating and overseeing vendor contracts, ensuring cost efficiency, and aligning expenditures with organizational priorities.

• On-going collaboration with internal stakeholders (i.e. legal, procurement, IT, and end-users—to assess needs, evaluate vendor performance, and make informed, data-driven decisions.

• Drive end-user satisfaction by designing and implementing engagement initiatives, needs assessments, and establishing feedback loops to continuously refine and improve services and resources.

• Responsible for enabling robust processes to measure Library Services systems / platforms, services usage and impact on Takeda’s business needs to inform responsible spend of budget.

• Demonstrated experience in the management and delivery of library content and digital platforms to transform manual processes and inform the development of Takeda-built platforms (ie APIs, metadata, bibliometric tools, text mining, chatbots, SAML, NLP, LibKey Nomad).

• In-depth knowledge of digital technologies to collect, analyze, and interpret data to identify trends and opportunities for improvement in library systems and processes (i.e. Google Analytics, SUSHI, Counter reports, Ezproxy, Zscaler).

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams across Takeda to develop and implement strategies that facilitate innovation and knowledge sharing across the organization.

• Develop and deliver training programs on the effective use of library resources, research tools, and information literacy skills.

• Ensure that all information services and resources adhere to legal and regulatory requirements, including copyright laws and data privacy regulations.

DIMENSIONS AND ASPECTS:

Technical/Functional (Line) Expertise

• Proven expertise in leading digital transformation projects and implementing emerging information systems.

• Implement and manage emerging digital technologies like text mining, machine learning, and AI to continuously evolve the library's capabilities.

• Strong working knowledge of bibliographic databases, discovery platforms (i.e., Embase, PubMed, Dialog, RightFind Enterprise, Northern Light, TD Net), and their value across a wide array of use cases.

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to develop and implement strategies that facilitate innovation and knowledge sharing across the organization.

Leadership

• Articulate a forward-looking vision to support innovation in R&D.

• Foster an innovation-driven culture through mentorship, aligning team efforts with broader knowledge-sharing and strategic initiatives.

• Lead by example - guiding a team of librarians and digital experts while actively contributing to project outcomes.

• Lead or co-lead internal collaborations with other R&D teams and external collaborations with vendors, academic institutions, and professional organizations.

• Demonstrated experience in managing remote/hybrid teams.

• Stay abreast of trends in digital libraries via active participation in workshops, courses, and professional organizations. 

Decision-making and Autonomy

• The ability to analyze problems, identify solutions, and make informed decisions to improve the Library services and operations.

• Leverage data-driven insights to make informed decisions that continuously improve library systems and enhance service delivery.

• Utilize expertise and judgment to make critical business decisions.

• Leverage other team members and stakeholders as appropriate to collaborate on complex decision-making.

Interaction

• Effective communication and interpersonal skills to interact with global stakeholders, staff, and administrators.

• Influence stakeholders to embrace new knowledge management initiatives and tools.

• Ability to lead organizational change initiatives and manage the transition/change management process.

• Ability to build trust and ‘influence without authority’ among a wide array of stakeholders.

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Innovation

• The ability to adapt to changing technologies, trends, and community needs in the rapidly evolving library landscape.

• Champion the use of emerging technologies like NLP, AI, and text mining in evolving the library's service offerings, ensuring that the latest digital tools are applied to enhance research capabilities.

• Proven expertise in leading digital transformation projects and implementing modern information systems.

• Spearhead the transformation and management of the Library to enhance accessibility, innovation, and information dissemination critical to pharmaceutical research and development.

Complexity

• Ability to collect, analyze, and interpret usage data to inform decision-making and evaluate program effectiveness.

• Systematic problem-solving, quick grasp of complex issues, and superior attention to detail in developing tailored solutions.

• Understand and respect diverse perspectives and promote an inclusive environment..

• Ensure that the Library resources are accessible and relevant to a diverse global user base.

EDUCATION, BEHAVIOURAL COMPETENCIES AND SKILLS:

• MLIS or MS in life sciences preferred

• At least 12 years of direct experience in a pharmaceutical, healthcare or science library

• Proven success in leading a digital transformation of library systems, including API delivery and the integration of cloud-based content platforms

• Experience with advanced technologies such as machine learning, AI, and data analytics to drive innovation in library systems.

• Familiarity with using, licensing and integrating electronic databases, scientific journals, e-books, and industry standards (i.e. PubMed, Embase, Dialog, literature delivery platforms)

• In-depth knowledge of copyright laws, including fair use, licensing agreements, open access, and permissions processes as they apply to digital content and AI

Takeda Compensation and Benefits Summary

We understand compensation is an important factor as you consider the next step in your career. We are committed to equitable pay for all employees, and we strive to be more transparent with our pay practices.

For Location:

Boston, MA

U.S. Base Salary Range:

$174,500.00 - $274,230.00

EEO Statement

Takeda is proud in its commitment to creating a diverse workforce and providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, parental status, national origin, age, disability, citizenship status, genetic information or characteristics, marital status, status as a Vietnam era veteran, special disabled veteran, or other protected veteran in accordance with applicable federal, state and local laws, and any other characteristic protected by law.

Locations

Boston, MA

Worker Type

Employee

Worker Sub-Type

Regular

Time Type

Full time

Job Exempt

Yes

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