SVP/VP, Technical Development Operations (TDO) & Strategy Full Time NEW

At Kelonia Therapeutics, our ambitions are bold: to dramatically expand the benefit and reach of genetic medicines. Our goal is to change what’s possible for genetic medicine by building the capabilities, experience, and commitment to bring life-saving medicine to every patient in need. We are a human-first company, driven by a mission to develop transformative genetic medicines for patients and their loved ones.

We have brought together pioneers in cell and gene therapy, guided by extraordinary scientific founders and a team committed to turning breakthrough science into real-world impact. As we grow, we are building a culture that values rigor, collaboration, and care for one another.

Are you ready to be a part of our remarkable journey? We’re looking for someone exceptional to join our growing team as SVP/VP, Technical Development Operations & Strategy. We’re seeking an inspiring leader to architect and scale Technical Operations across the development lifecycle, including process, analytical, formulation development, internal manufacturing and MSAT, and CDMO management, while ensuring cGMP compliance and advancing critical regulatory submissions. This is an opportunity to shape groundbreaking therapies, build a company from the ground up, and make a transformative impact on patients’ lives. The ideal candidate pairs deep technical expertise with strategic vision and a collaborative spirit. Join us at the forefront of innovation and help write the next chapter in gene therapy.

What You Will Do

• Drive the overall TDO Strategy, Vision and Strategic Growth to enable success, ensuring alignment with program and corporate milestones including control strategy, PPQ/validation path, and BLA/MAA readiness
• Establish trusted Partnership and Collaboration with Regulatory CMC and Quality
• Lead upstream, downstream, analytical, formulation and fill-finish activities; oversee tech transfer to CDMOs, set phase-appropriate specs/method lifecycle/stability, and lead comparability/bridging
• Own and optimize clinical supply (DS/DP/F&F, packaging/labeling, release/testing, cold-chain distribution) to ensure on-time, in-spec lots
• Own the preparation, review, and submission of CMC sections for global filings (IND/IMPD/CTA, NDA/BLA); author/defend content and lead FDA/EMA/HA meetings
• Partner with QA to run change control, deviations/CAPA, data integrity, and inspection readiness across internal and external sites
• Lead a high-performing, collaborative TDO Strategy team, fostering accountability, speed, and quality
• Cultivate and manage relationships with CDMOs/CMOs via QTAs/TTAs, audits, and KPI dashboards to ensure best-in-class capabilities
• Govern the TDO Strategy budget; model options for throughput, COGS, and yield improvements; communicate trade-offs and recommendations to the exec team and Board

What You Will Bring

• Ph.D. or M.S. in Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Biochemical Engineering, or related field with 12-15+ years in CMC/Tech Ops, including small-company leadership through early clinical
• Proven success optimizing established teams/systems: tech transfer, control strategy, stability, comparability, and phase-appropriate validation/PPQ planning
• Expertise in cell & gene therapy/viral vectors or complex biologics; potency/viral safety analytics and chain-of-identity/custody highly preferred
• Regulatory leadership authoring/defending CMC; experience preparing for BLA/MAA strongly preferred
• Deep knowledge of cGMP and ICH Q-series, change control, deviations/CAPA, and inspection readiness, including oversight of external partners
• Excellence in CDMO/CMO governance and running an externalized manufacturing model with measurable KPI improvement
• Clear, concise communicator who aligns cross-functionally (QA, Regulatory, Clinical, Finance) and steers the team with data and judgment
• Strategic and operational mindset, able to balance long-term vision with day-to-day execution

Kelonia does not accept unsolicited resumes from any source other than directly from candidates.

The anticipated salary range for candidates for this role if hired at VP Level will be $274,000 – 353,000

The anticipated salary range for candidates for this role if hired at SVP Level will be $304,000 – $381,000.

The final salary offered will depend on several factors, which may include, but is not limited to, relevant years of experience, skills, qualifications, job knowledge, and educational background.

At Kelonia, we’re serious about balance and growth. We offer Flexible Time Off and flexible scheduling aligned with team objectives, a competitive benefits package (health, commuter, and more), and on-site perks including free parking, a state-of-the-art gym, and a food hall, all within a collaborative, inclusive team that invests in your development.

Kelonia Therapeutics is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, religion, national or ethnic origin, disability, protected veteran status or any other basis protected by applicable law.

Kelonia does not accept unsolicited resumes from any source other than directly from candidates.

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.