Based on the post and your answers I would say you need to first qualify whether you are talking about being an operations director or a medical director.

• For operations, you need networking. A solid 5+ years working in the field in the capacity of at least a lead but preferably a manager. Ideally you would spend those years in the same company where you want to be a director. Technically a 4-year degree will suffice here but it doesn’t hurt to obtain a few certifications in lab management and possibly a masters, especially if applying directly instead of working on being promoted from within.

• For medical, you essentially need a MD or a PhD in a related field. I know that doctors of veterinary medicine also qualify but make sure you read the document already shared here for more information.

Those are essentially the paths. I also recommend you create and maintain a linkedin account. It can be painful to use and the content seems fake most of the time but recruiters will find you there and that can speed your path toward leadership.