Head of MSAT

Senior Associates - Cell and Gene Therapy at Mantell Associates

Mantell Associates is partnered with a leading global Biopharmaceutical organisation, who is seeking an accomplished Head of MSAT (Manufacturing Science & Technology) to lead and scale the MSAT function across multiple sites in California and globally.

This is a strategic leadership role, reporting to the Senior Vice President of Technical Operations, responsible for driving innovation, operational excellence, and cross‑functional execution in support of commercial launch and life cycle management.

• Lead and develop the MSAT organisation to ensure robust support for process transfer, scale‑up, and commercial product launch
• Provide strategic scientific and technical leadership for manufacturing science, technology platforms, and innovation initiatives
• Own the technology transfer process from development to commercial manufacturing, ensuring high quality, reliability, and compliance
• Partner with R&D, Quality, Regulatory, and Manufacturing Operations to establish scalable, compliant processes and standards
• Drive continuous improvement through data‑driven problem solving, process characterisation, and implementation of advanced technology solutions
• Develop and execute MSAT roadmaps, ensuring alignment with corporate objectives and global manufacturing strategies
• Represent MSAT in senior leadership forums, influencing decision‑making and cross‑functional priorities

• Advanced degree (PhD, MS) in Chemical Engineering, Biochemical Engineering, Chemistry, Biology or related discipline; BS with extensive experience considered
• Proven leadership experience in MSAT, process development, or technical operations within biopharmaceutical manufacturing
• Deep knowledge of biologics, cell & gene therapy, or complex drug substance/drug product platforms
• Demonstrated success in technology transfer, scale‑up, troubleshooting, and process optimisation in a GMP environment
• Strong communication and stakeholder management skills with the ability to influence at senior organisational levels
• Experience managing geographically distributed teams and integrating global manufacturing strategies

Mantell Associates is a specialist Pharmaceutical and Life Science headhunting firm. For more information on this opportunity, contact us at +44 (0).

Director

Full‑time

Manufacturing, Science, and Information Technology

Biotechnology Research, Pharmaceutical Manufacturing, and Chemical Manufacturing

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