Protein Technology Expert

Updated: 22nd January 2024

OPPORTUNITY

CPL Executive Search is assisting a dynamic global natural product and biotechnology company is expanding its portfolio and requires an experienced, organised and methodical technical protein expert with a practical approach. The protein expert will own and drive a major company project from the pilot stage, through scale-up to full commercial production.With a strong process engineering and process design knowledge, the ideal candidate will have excellent project management skills, a successful track record and a ‘can-do’ attitude. This pivotal project is a company priority within its North American and European regions, meaning the successful candidate can expect to have very senior level exposure.

POSITION

The company requires a Protein Technology Expert to lead and champion the process development and scale-up for its innovative protein hydrolysate. The expert will utilise product and process development expertise to successfully build, scale-up and continue to innovate in the human protein ingredient markets.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Initially liaising between Innovation and the Supply Chain Department, the expert will lead product and process optimisation to deliver cost efficient, high quality protein products
  • Work closely with the Chief Marketing Officer to deliver commercial protein production on schedule
  • Establish and execute technology transfer strategy in collaboration with supply chain
  • Support design and start-up for scaled protein production, providing technical assistance for customers
  • Develop new and more efficient protein products and processes to grow the category
  • Building internal relationships, mainly with colleagues in the product development, supply chain and regulatory departments
  • Building external relationships with contract manufacturers, contract research organisations (CRO) and customers
  • Applicant could be remotely based, travelling to the head office and production sites (1 week per month)
  • Willingness to travel internationally within Europe and North America
  • In the mid to long-term, travel to US for site evaluation/partner meetings and production start-up will likely be required (up to 50% of time)

SKILLS AND ABILITIES

  • Technical competence to deliver products/processes through design, technology transfer, engineering and scale-up
  • Ability to evaluate alternatives to deliver the most financially efficient products and/or processes
  • Detail in maintaining accurate records of all development projects
  • Leadership capabilities in establishing and managing cross-functional teams
  • Experience managing project budgets and costs
  • Effective networker, able to build and maintain relationships with academic and CRO partners
  • Fluent in English, with excellent MS Office skills

CRITICAL COMPETENCIES

  • Knowledge of relevant protein/food processing technology market and process engineering principles
  • Ability to responsibly structure and lead simple and complex projects
  • Effectively communicate, engage and manage key relationships, both internally and externally
  • Possession of a commercial mindset to deliver the most economically attractive project outcomes

EXPERIENCE

  • Industry experience in protein ingredient processing, technology and/or manufacturing
  • Experience working with filtration, hydrolysis and spray drying unit operations is preferred
  • Demonstrated project management capabilities
  • Proven track record in developing and scaling-up new products to commercial production levels
  • Either 3+ years industry experience (with a PhD or MSc) or 5+ years (BSc) in food, chemical or related engineering

COMPANY CULTURE AND WORKING ENVIRONMENT

  • An innovative, fast-moving, collaborative culture
  • The company operates with a start-up mentality, giving employees freedom but with an understanding of the need to deliver results
  • The company continuously looks to ‘think outside the box’ to grow its business

Package

  • Competitive with benefits

Contact

[This post has now been filled but we are always interested in adding suitably qualified candidates to our network. You can connect to us via LinkedIn or by email. Please note that CPL Executive Search works exclusively on retained executive search engagements commissioned by our clients and does not offer placement services or find positions for candidates].