Head of External Manufacturing - Biotechnology

Optify Search are currently partnered with an innovative biotechnology company developing next-generation sustainable ingredients through precision fermentation for the food and cosmetics industries. We are searching for a Head of External Manufacturing to lead the industrialisation, scale-up and commercial manufacturing strategy of a rapidly growing organisation.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute the external manufacturing strategy from pilot scale through to full commercial production.
• Identify, evaluate and manage Contract Manufacturing Organisations (CMOs) and strategic manufacturing partners across fermentation, downstream processing and refining.
• Lead technology transfer activities, ensuring successful scale-up from R&D into pilot and commercial manufacturing facilities.
• Negotiate manufacturing agreements, commercial terms, production costs and timelines with external partners.
• Build robust manufacturing networks and long-term strategic partnerships to support company growth.
• Develop manufacturing cost models, drive Cost of Goods Sold (COGS) reduction initiatives and support commercial decision-making through manufacturing economics.

Qualifications

• Scientific Background: MSc or PhD in Biotechnology, Biochemical Engineering, Chemical Engineering or a closely related discipline.
• Industrial Biotechnology Experience: 8+ years' experience within industrial biotechnology, fermentation, process development, manufacturing operations or external manufacturing environments.
• Technology Transfer & Scale-Up Expertise: Demonstrated success transferring processes from laboratory or pilot scale into commercial manufacturing facilities.
• Commercial & Negotiation Skills: Proven experience negotiating manufacturing agreements, technical collaborations and strategic partnerships with CMOs and industrial partners.
• Technical Understanding: Strong knowledge of fermentation, downstream processing, bioprocessing and industrial manufacturing operations.
• Leadership Competencies: Strong project management, stakeholder management and relationship-building skills, with the ability to influence both technical and commercial teams.

This role offers the opportunity to play a pivotal role in shaping the manufacturing strategy of a high-growth biotechnology business. The successful candidate will work closely with leading manufacturing partners across Europe and beyond while helping bring innovative sustainable products to global markets.