Senior Director of Operations - Charles River Laboratories

Join our team as a Senior Director of Operations to lead and innovate in the growing field of viral vector production. In this role, you’ll oversee Materials Management, MS&T, and Manufacturing, driving client processes from clinical development through commercial product launch. This leadership position is vital to fostering a culture of continuous improvement and collaboration with internal and external partners to ensure high-quality, regulatory-compliant production.

Key Responsibilities

• Expert Leadership

  Act as the subject matter expert in material planning, production processes, and technology transfers from process development to production.

  
  

• Team Management

  Lead large teams to ensure first-time execution and timely product delivery.

  
  

• Regulatory Strategy

  Establish and oversee CMC/BLA development methodologies and ensure compliance with regulatory standards for intermediates, APIs, and drug products.

  
  

• Cross-Functional Collaboration

  Partner with QA, QC, Business Development, and Process Development teams to meet project timelines and maintain quality standards.

  
  

• Client & Partner Engagement

  Build and manage strong relationships with external CROs/CDMOs and internal stakeholders to support strategic goals.

  
  

• Operational Excellence

  Develop and implement operational strategies for continuous improvement, ensuring readiness for regulatory audits and commercial launches.

  
  

• Mentorship & Team Development

  Foster a collaborative, high-performing environment that attracts and retains top talent, mentoring teams to drive innovation and success.

  
  

Qualifications

• Experience

  10+ years of operations leadership in a cGMP environment with a focus on virology, viral vector production, or vaccine manufacturing.

  
  

• Technical Expertise

  Knowledge of viral vector production (Lentivirus and AAV preferred), large molecule testing, and regulatory audits.

  
  

• Regulatory Knowledge

  Familiarity with ICH, USP, EP, and JP guidelines and FDA regulations.

  
  

• Education

  Bachelor’s degree in Biology or a related field (advanced degrees preferred).

  
  

• Skills

  Strong leadership, communication, and relationship-building skills, with proven success in managing cross-functional teams and external partnerships.

  
  

Why Join Us?

• Work at the forefront of viral vector production, contributing to life-changing therapies.
• Collaborate with industry-leading experts in a supportive, innovation-driven environment.
• Lead impactful projects from clinical development to commercial success.

Take the next step in your leadership career by joining a company that values excellence, innovation, and collaboration. Apply today!