R&D Assay Director - Accellix

Position Summary & Responsibilities:

This role leads the establishment and ramp-up of the ACCELLIX Assay R&D capability in Lombard, with end-to-end accountability for building the team, technology transfer from existing site, and delivery of assay development programs. The position operates across multiple geographies (US, Israel) ensuring continuity of R&D activities while building a sustainable long-term organization. This role combines strategic execution, organizational build, and operational delivery responsibilities in a high visibility integration context. Accountable for successful transfer and continuity of ACCELLIX assay R&D activities across sites – San Jose California (SJC), Jerusalem Israel (JLM) and Lombard, IL (LOM).

• Build and structure the ACCELLIX Assay R&D team, including hiring, role definition, and establishment of a scalable operating model
• Finalize integration of the Accellix US team within bioMérieux and establish a unified ACCELLIX bioscience organization across sites
• Build and develop a high-performing team, defining ways of working, performance expectations, and cross-site collaboration practices
• Lead technology and knowledge transfer from existing R&D teams to Lombard, ensuring continuity while minimizing disruption
• Operate in a context of simultaneous integration, team build, and active program execution
• Ensure delivery of assay development programs in line with ACCELLIX integration timelines and business priorities
• Own prioritization and execution decisions within ACCELLIX assay R&D scope, balancing resources, timelines, and evolving integration needs
• In close collaboration with Project and Program teams, ensure reliable, efficient, and timely delivery of new assays.
• Coordinate activities across multiple geographies (US, Israel) to align priorities, resources, and execution plans
• Work closely with the Jerusalem system team to ensure a “One Accellix” approach
• Partner with Pharma QC, Food, and Clinical R&D teams to identify synergies and ensure alignment with broader strategies
• Liaise with Marketing, Sales, Program, and Quality to help shape assay development strategy and ensure alignment with business priorities
• Represent bioMérieux scientific expertise in congresses and customer-facing engagements
• Participate in customer interactions to capture Voice of Customer insights and inform the development pipeline
• Perform all work in compliance with company quality procedures and standards.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Education and Experience Requirements:

• Bachelor degree required - higher level of education is preferred
  • In lieu of a Bachelor's degree, 4 years of additional relevant experience, defined below, will be accepted
• 10+ years of experience in a pharmaceutical, biotech, or medical device regulated environment, including direct experience in Assay Development, Analytical Method Development, or Quality Control functions including 5+ years of specific professional Team Management experience
  • Experience with cell‑ or gene‑therapy–related processes is highly desired.
  • Deep knowledge of Pharma industry ideally in the field of Cells and Genes therapies, especially in the area of QC management is desired
  • Scientific expertise in the field of flow cytometry
  • Ability to work in a multi-cultural environment
  • Experience leading multi-site operations is preferred
  • Speaking French is a plus
• Anticipated 20% travel required

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities:

• Acting with Honor and Being Open: Consistently upholds and reflects the core ethical principles and values that bioMérieux promotes
• Understanding the Business: Business Acumen to understand how a business operates and how to make it successful
• Being Organizationally Savvy: Ability to cooperate with others at all levels including leadership
• Developing and Inspiring Others: Create and nurture a group of individuals who work well together to achieve common goals
• Managing Work Processes: Driving continuous improvement by evaluating processes and implementing necessary changes
• Communicating Effectively: Effective Presentation Skills, including the ability to present technical data
• Skilled in MS Office tools to include but not limited to Outlook, Teams, Word, and Excel

• A choice of medical (including prescription), dental, and vision plans providing nationwide coverage and telemedicine options 
• Company-Provided Life and Accidental Death Insurance 
• Short and Long-Term Disability Insurance 
• Retirement Plan including a generous non-discretionary employer contribution and employer match. 
• Adoption Assistance 
• Wellness Programs 
• Employee Assistance Program 
• Commuter Benefits 
• Various voluntary benefit offerings 
• Discount programs 
• Parental leaves 

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