Role Overview for VP, Manufacturing Technology with a Biologics Firm – Los Angeles, CA
JRG Partners is proud to partner with a pioneering, research-driven biologics organization in the vibrant biotechnology hub of Los Angeles, CA, in their search for a visionary Vice President of Manufacturing Technology. This is a career-defining executive leadership opportunity to shape the future of manufacturing for a company dedicated to developing life-saving therapies for patients with critical unmet medical needs. The successful candidate will be a strategic and technical leader, responsible for the entire lifecycle of our manufacturing processes, from late-stage development and technology transfer to commercial process validation and lifecycle management.
As the VP of Manufacturing Technology, you will helm the Manufacturing Sciences and Technology (MS&T) division, a critical function that serves as the scientific and engineering bridge between Research & Development and cGMP Manufacturing. You will be entrusted with building and leading a world-class team of scientists and engineers, fostering a culture of innovation, scientific rigor, and operational excellence. Your vision will directly influence the company’s ability to reliably produce and supply complex biological products, ensuring robustness, scalability, and compliance with the highest global regulatory standards. This role requires a dynamic leader who can not only manage the complexities of day-to-day technical operations but also anticipate future industry trends, championing the adoption of next-generation manufacturing platforms like continuous processing, advanced automation, and predictive analytics (Industry 4.0). Your leadership will be instrumental in ensuring our manufacturing capabilities are a key competitive advantage, enabling the rapid and successful launch of new products that will impact countless lives.
Key Responsibilities of VP, Manufacturing Technology with a Biologics Firm – Los Angeles, CA
Strategic & Technical Leadership
Develop and execute a comprehensive, multi-year strategic roadmap for the Manufacturing Technology function, aligning with corporate goals and the product pipeline. Provide scientific and technical leadership for all biologics drug substance and drug product manufacturing processes.
Process Lifecycle Management
Oversee the entire process lifecycle, including late-stage process development, process characterization using Quality by Design (QbD) principles, and establishment of a robust process control strategy.
Technology Transfer & Scale-Up
Lead all technology transfer activities for new products from development into clinical and commercial manufacturing facilities, both internal and at Contract Development and Manufacturing Organizations (CDMOs). Ensure processes are scalable, transferable, and production-ready.
Process Validation & Continued Verification
Direct the process validation lifecycle, from authoring protocols and master plans (IQ/OQ/PQ) to executing studies and writing final reports. Implement and manage a Continued Process Verification (CPV) program to ensure processes remain in a constant state of control.
Manufacturing Support & Troubleshooting
Serve as the primary technical authority for the manufacturing organization. Provide expert, on-the-floor support for cGMP operations, leading complex process-related investigations, root cause analysis for deviations, and the implementation of effective Corrective and Preventive Actions (CAPAs).
Innovation & Continuous Improvement
Constantly evaluate and champion the implementation of innovative new technologies, automation, and analytical tools to enhance process robustness, increase efficiency, and reduce cost of goods (COGS). Drive a culture of continuous improvement using methodologies like Lean, Six Sigma, and statistical process control (SPC).
Regulatory & Compliance Leadership
Ensure all manufacturing processes and technical activities are conducted in strict compliance with current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP) and other global regulatory standards. Author and review critical chemistry, manufacturing, and controls (CMC) sections of regulatory submissions (e.g., IND, BLA, MAA) and act as a key subject matter expert during regulatory agency inspections.
Team Development & Mentorship
Recruit, train, and develop a high-performing team of scientists and engineers. Provide mentorship and career development opportunities to foster talent and build a strong leadership pipeline within the technical operations group.
Budget & Resource Management
Develop and manage the departmental operating and capital budgets, ensuring prudent financial stewardship and strategic allocation of resources to key projects and technological investments.
Requirements for the VP, Manufacturing Technology with a Biologics Firm – Los Angeles, CA
Educational Background
An advanced degree (M.S. or Ph.D.) in Chemical Engineering, Biochemical Engineering, Biotechnology, Chemistry, or a related life sciences discipline is required. A Ph.D. is strongly preferred.
Executive Experience
A minimum of 15 years of progressive, hands-on experience in the biopharmaceutical industry, with at least 8 years in a senior leadership role (Director level or above) managing functions such as MS&T, Process Development, or Technical Operations.
Deep Technical Expertise
Demonstrated mastery of biologics manufacturing processes. This includes extensive experience with both upstream (mammalian cell culture, bioreactors, media development) and downstream (chromatography, viral filtration, ultrafiltration/diafiltration) unit operations. Experience with multiple biologic modalities (e.g., monoclonal antibodies, recombinant proteins, cell therapies, vaccines) is highly desirable.
Proven Tech Transfer Record
A successful track record of leading multiple technology transfer projects for late-stage and commercial products, including transfers to external CDMO partners.
Regulatory Acumen
In-depth, expert-level knowledge of global cGMP regulations and guidelines (FDA, EMA, ICH). Must have direct experience authoring CMC sections for regulatory filings and successfully supporting health authority inspections.
Strategic Vision
Proven ability to think strategically, anticipate future trends, and translate them into actionable plans. Experience developing technology roadmaps and business cases for capital investments is essential.
Leadership & Communication Skills
Exceptional leadership capabilities with a demonstrated ability to build, inspire, and lead high-performance technical teams. Must possess outstanding written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex scientific concepts to diverse audiences, from bench scientists to the executive board.
Problem-Solving Prowess
Strong analytical, data-driven, and problem-solving skills, with a track record of resolving complex manufacturing and technical challenges.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to attracting and retaining top-tier talent by offering a highly competitive and comprehensive compensation and benefits package. This includes:
Executive Compensation
A highly competitive base salary, a significant annual performance-based bonus, and a substantial long-term incentive package (stock options and/or RSUs) designed to reward contributions to the company’s success.
Comprehensive Health & Wellness
Premium medical, dental, and vision insurance plans for you and your eligible dependents. A robust wellness program, including mental health resources and a fitness stipend.
Retirement Savings
A 401(k) retirement plan with a generous company matching contribution to help you prepare for your future.
Work-Life Integration
A generous paid time off (PTO) policy, numerous paid holidays, and a commitment to supporting a healthy work-life balance.
Professional Growth
A dedicated budget for continuous learning and professional development, including attendance at major industry conferences, workshops, and advanced training.
Relocation Support
A comprehensive relocation package is available for qualified candidates and their families to facilitate a smooth transition to the Los Angeles area.
How to Apply
This is a retained, exclusive search conducted by JRG Partners. If you are a transformative leader with the technical depth and strategic vision to drive manufacturing excellence in a dynamic biologics environment, we invite you to apply. To be considered for this pivotal leadership role, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your qualifications and interest through our secure portal.
For more information on our specialized expertise in recruiting executive talent for the biotechnology and pharmaceutical sectors, please visit the JRG Partners’ Life Sciences Executive Search practice page.
