Role Summary
Manager, Cell Manufacturing (iPSC) — lead the establishment and operation of induced Pluripotent Stem Cell manufacturing, including building and managing the production team, overseeing facility and equipment start-up, day-to-day production, and supporting technology transfer from process development.
Responsibilities
- Build and lead a skilled cell manufacturing (iPSC) team, including hiring, onboarding, and mentoring staff
- Lead and support tech transfer activities for the startup of iPSC production; collaborate with process development and engineering teams to ensure smooth transfer of processes into production
- Supervise day-to-day activities of production team including scheduling and resource planning
- Monitor raw material usage and maintain accurate inventory levels for production
- Assist with the implementation and commissioning of new equipment and process changes
- Support routine equipment troubleshooting and optimization efforts
- Provide training and development of technical competencies across the team
- Create, review, and revise SOPs and manufacturing procedures
- Promote a culture of safety and ensure adherence to OSHA regulations and company safety policies
- Initiate and support investigations when process deviations or non-conformances occur
- Conduct performance evaluations, set objectives, and support career development through coaching, mentoring, and development plans
- Foster a collaborative and accountable team environment
- Deliver and document on-the-job training for new and current staff on production processes, equipment, and safety procedures
- Participate in department and corporate teams and initiatives
- Perform additional responsibilities as assigned by leadership
Qualifications
- Education and Experience requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in a directly related life science specialty field and 8+ years of related experience in life sciences, or
- Master’s degree in a directly related life science specialty field and 6+ years of related experience in life sciences
- 2+ years of people management experience
- Applied knowledge of pharmaceutical GMPs, FDA guidelines, and industry standards; ability to apply GMP to company-specific processes and products
- Understanding of basic cell therapy techniques, including cell isolation, transduction, and expansion
- Hands-on experience with cell culture, aseptic technique, and cleanroom operations
- Familiar with the use and operation of equipment such as biological safety cabinets, balances, pipettes, etc.
- Identify and perform advanced troubleshooting and assist with technical issues
- Excellent professional documentation and verbal communication skills
- Ability to interact with other departments effectively; review work, communicate problems, suggest corrections, and enforce policy/procedures
- Ability to handle confidential company data and information
- Proficient with the Microsoft Office Suite
- Ability to work flexible hours and respond to unplanned manufacturing needs, including potential weekend or off-shift support
- Comfortable working in a cleanroom or controlled environment
- Strong interpersonal and leadership skills to lead, mentor, and motivate a team
- Ability to travel internationally (minimal)
Skills
- Leadership and team management
- Process transfer and technology transfer coordination
- Production planning and scheduling
- Quality systems and SOP development
- Safety and regulatory compliance
- Technical troubleshooting and problem-solving
- Documented communication and collaboration across departments
Education
- Master’s or Bachelor’s degree in a life sciences field (as specified in qualifications)
Additional Requirements
- Ability to travel internationally (minimal)