Associate Director, Production (London)

Job Summary

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We are seeking an operationally experienced and strategically minded Associate Director to join our Cell Manufacturing team.

Working as part of a team of two Associate Directors, Production, you will provide leadership and oversight across our 7-day manufacturing operations. Together, you will be responsible for the smooth and consistent running of our production activities.

The Production team consists of over 80 team members working across a range of shift patterns to support clinical and commercial manufacturing demands.

This role is accountable for the day-to-day management of operations within the current manufacturing facility, driving the successful scale-up of cell manufacturing capabilities, and preparing the team for expansion into a new commercial facility. In addition, the role plays a key part in the operational implementation of lean manufacturing initiatives and will ensure effective cross-functional collaboration with Quality, MSAT, Engineering, Training, Operational Excellence (OPEX), and Supply Chain teams.

The role is based on-site at the Autolus manufacturing facilities in Stevenage, with occasional travel to London-based sites as required. Please note that this is a shift-based role working Sunday – Thursday, 9AM – 5PM.

Key Responsibilities

• Accountable for day-to-day management of a 7-day cell manufacturing operation across multiple shifts, with expected annual volumes of 2000+ batches in multiple manufacturing suites.
• Maintain staff and equipment capacity to support clinical and commercial patient demand, managing risk mitigation as needed.
• Oversee training and development planning for operational staff, providing feedback and development plans for all team members.
• Monitor work productivity, report on operational trends, and recommend or implement changes to improve productivity and processes.
• Prioritize and implement lean / continuous improvement initiatives within cell manufacturing.

Demonstrated Skills and Competencies

Essential

• Over 5+ years of management experience in a manufacturing environment at a similar level.
• Strong leadership skills and ability to motivate high-performing teams.
• Data-driven with the ability to analyze key metrics and implement improvements.
• Project Management and Change Management experience in large operational teams.
• Experience with MES or similar computerized systems in an operational setting.

Preferred

• Degree in a technical field.
• Lean Manufacturing / Green Belt certification.
• IOSH certification.

Skills / Specialist Knowledge

• Experience in manufacturing operations, ideally in a GMP environment.
• Leadership experience in 24/7 shift operations.
• Knowledge of Good Manufacturing Practices.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Proven success in setting and achieving team objectives.
• Flexible, self-motivated, and proactive.
• Understanding of cell biology and immunology (preferred).
• Knowledge of regulatory guidance for pharma / cell-based biopharmaceutical manufacturing.
• Strong Excel skills, including macros and pivot tables (preferred).

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