Chief Science & Technical Officer

|Scientific & Pharmaceutical - Management|Wellington
  • New Zealand-owned biotechnology company
  • Senior strategic role
  • Be a key contributor to the development of world-class biomaterials

The Organisation:
Humble Bee Bio is an award-winning biotechnology company based in Wellington, New Zealand that was founded to positively impact the world and build value by combining biomimicry and the power of synthetic biology. In identifying and developing a novel protein mimicking a unique biomaterial manufactured by a particular bee in nature to protect its larvae from environmental conditions, Humble Bee Bio is creating naturally derived alternatives for several market applications, including dermocosmetics, biomedical, and textiles.
 
The Opportunity:
As part of the company’s development and subsequent growth, the strategic position of Chief Science & Technical Officer has been created. Reporting to the CEO, the key objectives of this role are to lead the research and development strategy and execution, manage projects, lead the scale-up and transfer of technology to manufacture, lead the team of research and development scientists and identify and implement new technologies that yield competitive advantage.
 
While ideally, the role will be based in Wellington, applications are welcomed for hybrid or remote working elsewhere in New Zealand and Australia.
 
You, the Candidate:
Because of the seniority of this role and influence on the business, as a suited candidate, you will have a PhD in a relevant biological field – Protein Biotechnology, Biochemistry, or applied microbiology. Significant post-doctoral experience in a commercial science field e.g. biomaterials or speciality chemicals is also required. This experience will include a proven track record in guiding technologies and products through research & development, into operations and on to successful market launch. You will have a successful record in attaining grants, managing multiple projects, and positively influencing those around you (including your team) to meet financial and time milestones.
 
Preferred candidates for this role will need to be flexible in adapting to the changing needs of this small but growing business where passion for the product concepts and team engagement are as key as the technical tools you bring with you.
 
The ideal candidate will:

  • Hold a PhD in a relevant discipline such as Biochemistry, (white) protein biotechnology, Microbiology or equivalent
  • Have 10+ years of commercial R&D experience with the development of biological products
  • Have knowledge of the principles of GLP, GCP and cGMP as applied to pharmaceutical development and manufacture
  • Demonstrate excellent leadership and management skills
  • Demonstrate proven relationship and communication skills, able to work effectively with customers, research providers and regulators
  • Be highly analytical and an excellent problem solver
  • Be a strong team player

In return, Humble Bee Bio offers a competitive salary in the region of $160-180K base plus a performance bonus of $60K and ESOP, the opportunity to be involved in leading-edge innovation, and to work in a location that offers the best of work/life balance for you and your family.
 
For a confidential enquiry or to apply for this position please click on the APPLY button or contact Tony De Barr on 04 916 0541, email tony@trs.co.nz
Note: If this vacancy is not exactly what you are seeking, then please contact me in confidence to discuss your individual requirements.