By combining computational protein design, machine learning, and automation, we accelerate the development of innovative materials for a wide range of sectors, from fashion to medical textiles. Our novel protein-based fibres are designed to replace petrochemical-derived materials, offering a sustainable, biodegradable, and functional alternative for consumers, industry, and the planet.
Our multidisciplinary team of scientists, engineers, and software developers comes from a variety of backgrounds, all united by a passion for developing next-generation materials. We are now looking for a Head of Manufacturing (full-time, in-person) to join our growing team and play a central role in bringing our technology to scale.
Head of Manufacturing – Biomaterials Scale up
Location: London (onsite)
Salary: Circa £100k + Strong Benefits
Key Responsibilities
- Contribute as a member of the senior leadership team to the strategic direction and growth of the company.
- Report directly to the CEO and regularly update the Board on manufacturing strategy and progress.
- Scale-Up & Technology Transfer: Lead the transition of manufacturing processes from lab-scale to pilot and commercial production. Oversee selection and coordination with Contract Manufacturing Organizations (CMOs) to ensure effective technology transfer.
- Line manage heads of the fibre spinning and strain engineering/bioprocess teams; manage partnerships with Contract Research Organizations (CROs).
- Build and maintain detailed supply chain models with financial projections for large-scale manufacturing.
- Manage relationships with key suppliers, manufacturers, and logistics partners to ensure efficient and scalable production.
- Ensure all manufacturing processes align with sustainability goals, including waste minimisation, reduced energy and water usage, and circular economy principles.
- Regulatory Compliance: Oversee adherence to health, safety, environmental standards, REACH, and other relevant regulations across internal operations and outsourced manufacturing. Maintain required documentation, including SOPs, MSDS, batch records, and regulatory filings.
- Process Optimisation: Drive continuous improvement of industrial processes by applying statistical methods, process modelling, mass balance calculations, and experimental design to enhance productivity and efficiency.
Qualifications & Experience
- Degree in Process Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a related discipline.
- Proven experience scaling up manufacturing processes, ideally in polymer processing and/or bioprocess manufacturing.
- Strong understanding of regulatory standards and quality systems for new materials and/or technical-grade bioprocessing.
- Excellent technical skills and analytical thinking.
- Proactive and self-driven with the ability to thrive in a fast-paced, start-up environment.
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills, able to work effectively with internal teams and external partners.
- Extensive experience in project management and leading technical teams.