Head of IT

Company Description
Zymeworks is a global biotechnology company managing a portfolio of licensed healthcare assets and developing a diverse pipeline of novel, multifunctional biotherapeutics to improve the standard of care for difficult-to-treat diseases, including cancer, inflammation, and autoimmune disease. The Company’s asset and royalty aggregation strategy focuses on optimizing positive future cash flows from an emerging portfolio of licensed products such as Ziihera® (zanidatamab-hrii) and other licensed products and product candidates such as pasritamig. In addition, Zymeworks is also building a portfolio of healthcare assets that can generate strong cash flows, while supporting the early-stage development of innovative medicines. We are a global company headquartered in Vancouver BC, with operations in Bellevue WA, Dublin IRE, and Singapore.

Why Work With Us

Nothing is more critical to our success than the quality of our team. The work we do is meaningful and impactful - we care about each other as well as the patients we serve. We offer challenging career opportunities, competitive benefits and an environment that recognizes and rewards performance.

This role will be located in Vancouver, BC and is hybrid with a minimum of 3 days per week onsite.

Overview

The Head of IT will lead the execution of the company’s IT strategy, ensuring systems, infrastructure, and digital capabilities effectively support research, clinical development, and business operations. This role is a hands-on leader responsible for day-to-day IT operations, while partnering cross-functionally to deliver scalable, secure, and efficient technology solutions.

Reporting into the SVP, CHRO the Head of IT will oversee IT systems, infrastructure, and select facilities operations, while helping to modernize the organization’s technology landscape. This role will also play a key role in establishing governance frameworks for emerging technologies, including the responsible use of AI and implementing appropriate Cybersecurity measures to protect the organization.

How You'll Contribute

• Partner with executive leadership to translate business and scientific priorities into an actionable IT roadmap.
• Execute on IT initiatives that support research, clinical development, and corporate functions.
• Lead and mentor the IT team and aligning capabilities to meet organizational needs.
• Ensure IT systems are scalable, reliable, and aligned with organizational growth.
• Oversee day-to-day IT operations including infrastructure, networks, cloud environments, and end-user support.
• Ensure high system availability, performance, and user satisfaction across global teams.
• Lead IT support for research, clinical trial operations, and external collaborations.
• Manage core business systems (e.g., ERP, HRIS, collaboration tools, EHS platforms).
• Support systems used in drug discovery, clinical trials, and data analysis.
• Drive continuous improvement and optimization of existing platforms.
• Maintain robust cybersecurity practices, data privacy standards, and regulatory compliance (e.g., GxP where applicable).
• Develop and enforce IT policies and controls across the organization.
• Ensure proper data governance and integrity across systems.
• Develop and implement internal policies for the responsible use of AI and automation tools.
• Partner with Legal, HR, and business leaders to define guidelines for AI usage, data privacy, and risk management.
• Evaluate and introduce AI-driven solutions to improve productivity, research capabilities, and operational efficiency.
• Manage relationships with IT vendors, consultants, and service providers.
• Negotiate contracts and ensure cost-effective procurement of IT solutions.
• Own and manage the IT budget.
• Foster a service-oriented, collaborative, and high-performance culture.

What You'll Bring

• 10–15 years of progressive IT experience, with prior leadership responsibility.
• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field (Master’s degree considered an asset).
• Experience in biotechnology, pharmaceutical, or other regulated environments strongly preferred.
• Strong understanding of IT systems supporting research, clinical development, and corporate functions (Finance, HR, Legal).
• Experience with cloud infrastructure, AI, enterprise systems (e.g., ERP such as NetSuite), and cybersecurity best practices.
• Familiarity with GxP environments and regulatory requirements is an asset.
• Experience implementing and managing IT vendors and outsourced service models.
• Hands-on, execution-focused leader who can operate both strategically and tactically.
• Strong stakeholder management skills with the ability to partner across technical and non-technical teams.
• Practical approach to problem-solving with a focus on scalability and efficiency.
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to translate technical concepts into business terms.
• Experience introducing new technologies (including AI tools) in a thoughtful, governed manner.

Total Rewards

We offer a comprehensive total rewards package, which includes competitive salaries, generous benefits, an outstanding work environment, and excellent opportunities for professional growth. We regularly benchmark our compensation against leading biotechnology companies in our geographies. 

The base salary range displayed on each job posting reflects the minimum and maximum target for new hire salaries for the position in the location for which the job is posted and does not include bonus, equity, or benefits. Within the range, individual pay is determined by a variety of factors and the salary offered may vary depending on the successful candidate’s location and qualifications (including, but not limited to, job-related knowledge, education, training, skills, and experience).

Our total rewards package that includes: 

• Industry leading vacation and paid time off
• Exceptional medical, dental and vision benefits by country
• Zymelife health and wellness benefits
• Matching RRSP / 401K / Pension program
• Employee Share Purchase Program
• Employee Equity Program
• Paid time off to volunteer in your community

This role is not eligible for relocation or immigration support. 

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, colour, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin or disability.

NOTE TO AGENCIES:  Zymeworks values our relationships with our recruiting partners. We only accept resumes from those partners who have been contracted with us. Zymeworks is not responsible for any fees related to resumes that are unsolicited or are received without contract.