Role Overview for VP, Technical Operations with a Biomanufacturing Plant – Raleigh, NC
JRG Partners is proud to partner with a pioneering biomanufacturing organization at the forefront of developing life-saving therapeutics. Our client is dedicated to innovation, quality, and scientific excellence, operating a state-of-the-art facility in the vibrant Research Triangle Park area of Raleigh, North Carolina. We are seeking a visionary and strategic leader to join their executive team as the Vice President of Technical Operations.
This is a pivotal leadership role responsible for the entire technical operations function, a cornerstone of the company’s success. The VP, Technical Operations will provide strategic direction and operational oversight for Manufacturing Science and Technology (MS&T), Process Engineering, Validation, Facilities Management, and Capital Projects. You will be instrumental in ensuring the facility operates at the highest standards of efficiency, quality, and regulatory compliance, enabling the seamless transition of novel therapies from clinical development to commercial-scale production.
The ideal candidate is a seasoned biopharmaceutical executive with a profound understanding of the complexities of biologics manufacturing. You possess a unique blend of deep technical expertise, strategic business acumen, and inspirational leadership. You will be tasked with building and mentoring world-class teams, driving a culture of continuous improvement, and ensuring that our client’s manufacturing capabilities are robust, scalable, and prepared for future growth. This position reports directly to the Chief Operating Officer and offers a significant opportunity to shape the company’s technical strategy and contribute directly to its mission of improving patient lives worldwide.
Key Responsibilities of VP, Technical Operations with a Biomanufacturing Plant – Raleigh, NC
Strategic Leadership & Execution
Develop, articulate, and execute a comprehensive technical operations strategy that aligns with the company’s long-term corporate objectives. Drive initiatives that enhance manufacturing processes, improve product quality, and reduce costs.
Team Development & Mentorship
Lead, manage, and develop a high-performing, multi-disciplinary team across MS&T, Process Engineering, Validation, and Facilities. Foster a collaborative, innovative, and compliant culture that attracts and retains top talent.
Manufacturing Science & Technology (MS&T)
Oversee the MS&T function, ensuring robust process characterization, validation, and lifecycle management. Provide technical stewardship for all commercial and late-stage clinical products, including troubleshooting, process optimization, and technology transfer activities.
Process Engineering & Continuous Improvement
Champion operational excellence and continuous improvement methodologies (e.g., Lean, Six Sigma) to optimize plant efficiency, capacity, and performance. Lead the design and implementation of new process technologies and equipment.
Regulatory Compliance & Quality
Ensure all technical operations activities are conducted in strict accordance with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), as well as FDA, EMA, and other global regulatory requirements. Act as a key leader during regulatory inspections and audits.
Validation & Qualification
Direct the site’s validation master plan, overseeing the qualification of facilities, utilities, and equipment, as well as the validation of manufacturing processes, cleaning procedures, and analytical methods.
Capital Project Management
Lead the planning, budgeting, and execution of major capital projects, including facility expansions, new equipment installations, and technology upgrades, ensuring they are completed on time and within budget.
Financial & Budgetary Oversight
Develop and manage the annual operating and capital budgets for the Technical Operations department. Monitor performance against financial targets and implement corrective actions as needed.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Serve as a key member of the site leadership team, working closely with counterparts in Manufacturing, Quality, Supply Chain, and R&D to ensure seamless operations and alignment on strategic goals.
Risk Management
Proactively identify potential operational, technical, and compliance risks. Develop and implement robust mitigation strategies to ensure business continuity and product supply.
Requirements for the VP, Technical Operations with a Biomanufacturing Plant – Raleigh, NC
Educational Background
An advanced degree (M.S. or Ph.D.) in a relevant scientific or engineering discipline, such as Chemical Engineering, Biochemical Engineering, Biotechnology, or a related field, is required.
Professional Experience
A minimum of 15 years of progressive experience within the biopharmaceutical or biotechnology industry, with at least 7-10 years in a senior leadership capacity overseeing technical operations or MS&T functions.
Technical Expertise
Extensive, hands-on experience with large-scale biologics manufacturing processes, including mammalian cell culture, fermentation, and protein purification (downstream processing). Deep knowledge of process development, scale-up, technology transfer, and process validation.
Regulatory Acumen
Proven track record of successfully managing operations in a heavily regulated cGMP environment. Direct experience leading or playing a significant role in regulatory inspections (FDA, EMA, etc.) is essential.
Leadership Skills
Demonstrated ability to lead and inspire large, diverse technical teams. A history of successfully mentoring and developing talent to create a strong leadership pipeline.
Strategic Thinking
Exceptional strategic planning and problem-solving skills, with the ability to translate corporate goals into actionable departmental strategies and initiatives.
Business & Financial Acumen
Strong financial management skills, with experience developing and managing multi-million dollar operational and capital budgets.
Communication & Interpersonal Skills
Outstanding communication skills (written, verbal, and presentation) with the ability to effectively communicate complex technical concepts to a wide range of audiences, from engineers to the executive board.
Location
Must be able to work on-site in Raleigh, NC. Relocation assistance is available for the right candidate.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to investing in their employees and offers a highly competitive and comprehensive benefits package, including:
Competitive Compensation
A highly attractive base salary, annual performance-based bonus, and a significant long-term equity/stock option package.
Comprehensive Health Coverage
Premium medical, dental, and vision insurance plans for you and your eligible dependents.
Retirement Savings
A robust 401(k) plan with a generous company match to help you plan for your future.
Work-Life Balance
A generous paid time off (PTO) policy, including vacation, sick leave, and paid company holidays.
Relocation Support
A comprehensive relocation package is available for qualified candidates moving to the Raleigh area.
Professional Growth
Ample opportunities for professional development, including support for attending industry conferences, workshops, and continuing education.
Innovative Environment
The chance to work in a dynamic, science-driven culture with a passionate team dedicated to making a difference in patients’ lives.
How to Apply
JRG Partners is exclusively managing the search for this critical leadership position. If you are a transformative leader with the experience and passion to drive technical excellence in a world-class biomanufacturing organization, we encourage you to apply.
To be considered for this opportunity, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your qualifications and interest in the role. For more information about our expertise in this sector, please visit our dedicated Life Sciences practice area. We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
