We are currently seeking qualified candidates for a Research & Development Director role with the Media division of a leading multinational chemicals, biopharmaceutical and biotechnology company. This is a permanent position that can be based out of Maryland, United States, or the United Kingdom.
PURPOSE
Reporting to the SVP R&D, the Director is responsible for global development of media platform solutions for all internal manufacturing modalities in Cell & Gene Therapy, Viral Vector therapies, Mammalian, Microbial and other new systems that will emerge in the future such as Microbiome, Bacteriophage and Exosomes. Media formulations encompass supplements, boosters and other additives included during upstream manufacture of biologics products.
RESPONSIBILITIES
- Develops and executes on strategies for innovative Media solutions for in-house and external customers on a global basis. Manages a growing group of scientists in the US and Europe as a combined team with a single purpose and set of objectives
- Establishes practical project plans
- Collaborates with other R&D heads in the Company and beyond to maximize resource utilization, build strong technology platforms and ensure that results are high quality and commercially viable.
- Drives efficient execution of projects and ensures that deliverables are clearly articulated and results provided on time to the highest quality.
- Maintains a world class standard of scientific know-how in all aspects of biomanufacturing especially Media and an ability to use the latest rational design and digital automation tools to bring novel Media systems into routine production.
- Leads technical discussions on Media across multiple functional groups, primarily Commercial Development, Operations, Quality, Marketing, IP/Legal, Regulatory and Communications.
- Identifies and leverages external sources to enhance our technology platform innovation across biomanufacturing with emphasis on Media solutions
- Represent Media R&D initiatives within R&D, Company Leadership, Executive Committee and the Board of Directors.
- Lead technical teams in the US and Europe to execute Media R&D projects.
- Manage, coach and develop individual scientist to realize their goals and perform at a high level.
- Lead by influence and collaboration in technical areas and work in a matrix environment to reach effective decisions
- Manages budgets and resources on a daily basis as well as annual budget rounds to include expenses, cap-ex, RoI and long term projections
EDUCATION, SKILLS & EXPERIENCE
- Masters level and preferably PhD in life sciences
- A minimum of 10 years’ experience in a relevant working environment (likely biotech industrial R&D/manufacturing, including the management of a team)
- Broad and deep understanding of technology needs and customer base
- Ability to work in complex and fast-paced matrix environment.
- In-depth commercial understanding of corporate and operational business issues.
- Demonstrated innovative skills and experience leading complex technology projects.
- High level of communication and presentation skills.
- Strong analytical and problem solving skills. Able to translate complex information into coherent analysis and plans
- Proven ability to lead, coach and inspire individuals and teams to set and achieve breakthrough performance goals
- Inventiveness and problem solving skills to develop new and expand current technical capabilities
- Gravitas, intellectual capability and daily operational grip to gain immediate respect and credibility through the organization (from shop floor to boardroom)
- A track record of getting things done with the tenacity to manage change to a successful conclusion
- Strategic thinker with a passion for improvement – allied to an execution mindset
- Possesses the intellectual ability to think abstractly and creativity to resolve problems and achieve practical results
- Must have strong business and interpersonal skills and be a persuasive communicator – written, oral and active listening – to influence peers and colleagues
- Displays the ability to recognize critical problems, manage ambiguity and balance multiple priorities simultaneously.