Chief Scientific Officer
Bionova Scientific LLC

Job Info

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The Asahi Kasei Group operates with a commitment of creating for tomorrow. Our business sectors, Material, Homes, and Health Care, contribute to the development of society by anticipating the changing needs of those around the world. We look for candidates that offer a fresh perspective and a variety of skills to help us achieve our commitment.

Bionova is a rapidly growing, biologics CDMO focused on developing and manufacturing recombinant protein products using mammalian cell culture processes. Our business success is built on bringing together top scientific talent, arming them with the best available tools, and setting them loose in an agile, energized culture focused on solving difficult client problems. Because our success depends on our ability to exceed our clients' expectations, we look for candidates with an innate desire to serve. Adaptability and an interest in transformative action are also common attributes among our team. Bionova became a subsidiary of Asahi Kasei Medical in May 2022, a division of Tokyo-based Asahi Kasei Group. This acquisition has enabled Bionova to greatly accelerate growth of the business, both in capacity of current service offerings and expansion into new service offerings.

Company:
Bionova Scientific LLC

Job Description:

Company Summary:
Bionova is a rapidly growing, biologics CDMO focused on developing and manufacturing recombinant protein products. As part of our business expansion plan, we are building a state-of-the-art facility that specializes in the development and manufacturing of Plasmid DNA. This facility will be equipped with cutting-edge technology and staffed by a team of highly skilled professionals who are dedicated to advancing the field of Plasmid DNA process development and manufacturing. Our business success is built on bringing together top scientific talent, arming them with the best available tools, and setting them loose in an agile, energized culture focused on solving difficult client challenges.

Because our success depends on our ability to exceed our clients' expectations, we look for candidates with an innate desire to serve. Adaptability and an interest in transformative action are also common attributes among our team.

Position Summary:
The Chief Scientific Officer (CSO) will play a critical leadership role in driving innovation, strategic direction, and operational excellence within our Plasmid DNA (pDNA) manufacturing facility. This position will lead the pDNA team, drive strategic growth initiatives, and serve as the technical expert in both pDNA and biologics manufacturing. The CSO will also provide technical support for advanced manufacturing technologies and work closely with the Sales and Marketing teams to secure bookings for pDNA and biologics manufacturing services.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Lead the pDNA team and oversee the development and manufacturing of plasmid DNA products.
• Develop and implement strategies to enhance operational efficiency and meet company goals.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to align scientific initiatives with business objectives.

• Serve as the technical expert in pDNA and mammalian, providing guidance on complex projects.
• Stay updated on emerging technologies and provide technical support for advanced manufacturing processes.
• Drive innovation in pDNA manufacturing to maintain a competitive edge and improve scalability.

• Manage the end-to-end development and production of plasmid DNA, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards.
• Oversee process development, technology transfer, and manufacturing scale-up activities.
• Ensure manufacturing meets the highest standards of quality and efficiency, adhering to cGMP guidelines.

• Collaborate with Sales and Marketing teams to support business development efforts.
• Provide technical input and expertise during client meetings and proposals.
• Assist in securing bookings for pDNA and biologics manufacturing services to drive revenue growth.
• Act as the primary technical liaison between the company and clients, addressing scientific queries and ensuring customer satisfaction.
• Build and maintain strategic partnerships with key stakeholders in the biotech and biopharma industries.

Working Conditions:

• This position is required to work in a laboratory/office setting.

Qualifications:

• BS/MS/Ph.D. in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Microbiology, or a related field.
• 20+ years of experience in biologics or pDNA manufacturing, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role.
• Expertise in advanced manufacturing technologies and regulatory frameworks for plasmid DNA and biologics production.
• Proven ability to troubleshoot and provide technical support for complex manufacturing issues.
• Strong business acumen with experience supporting sales, marketing, and business development efforts.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Proven ability in managing and coaching experienced technical personnel and associated projects.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to engage clients and stakeholders.
• Champion the implementation of new technologies and systems.
• Strong strategic thinking with the ability to align scientific initiatives with business goals.

As an equal opportunity employer, Asahi Kasei believes a diverse workforce will provide us with the ability to continuously support the changes in the economy, society, and environment.

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