About the position
The Director of Research & Development is responsible for all research, product development and formulation activities in Kemin Biologics from conception to commercialization. A new venture for Kemin, this role will play a critical role in establishing Kemin as a leader in the vaccine industry. The ideal candidate will possess a hands-on approach while embracing strategic growth and optimization. This global position establishes the scientific and strategic basis for research and development in the vaccine industry and is responsible for setting the strategic direction for product development and commercialization activities in conjunction with the marketing, regulatory and business development functions. The role of the product development and commercialization function is to combine strategic foresight in developing solution-based products as well as being nimble enough to respond quickly to industry needs. This position also acts as the lead commercialization scientist for the application of new molecules that are identified, developed and commercialized via the Product Innovation Process (PIP). New products, product improvements and product troubleshooting are all subject to the PIP to ensure efficient utilization of resources, economical manufacturing and successful commercial introduction. All research and product development activities must meet the Kemin Vision and Mission and achieve the Kemin values in meeting and exceeding customer expectations, while understanding our technology at the molecular level. This position may begin as a mobile role, ultimately requiring residence in the Kansas City metropolitan area. Travel will include monthly trips to our Worldwide Headquarters in Des Moines, Iowa and quarterly international visits.
Responsibilities
- Develop strategies, establish tactics, priorities, and implement plans for successful completion.
- Focus and prioritize core business projects and assume responsibility for their success in the Product Innovation Process.
- Stay updated on emerging infectious diseases, new technologies, and industry trends to drive innovation.
- Work closely with the regulatory/IPRA department to ensure compliance with global regulatory requirements.
- Work closely with production, quality assurance, and commercial teams to transition research projects into market-ready products.
- Collaborate with universities, research institutions, and industry partners for joint research opportunities and managing pre-clinical and clinical trials.
- Provide technical expertise to management, marketing and sales teams for product positioning from a scientific point of view.
- Work very closely with Business partners on research projects and lead a team of scientists, and technical staff to achieve R&D goals.
- Manage R&D budgets, timelines, and resource allocation to ensure efficient project execution.
- Foster a culture of innovation, problem-solving, and continuous improvement.
- Manage technical documentation and submissions for regulatory approvals.
- Coordinate the documentation of research results through internal communication systems.
- Motivate, develop, and train research staff to achieve their personal goals as well as Kemin Biologics strategic objectives.
- Represent Kemin Biologics to Kemin management in a manner that creates confidence and support.
Requirements
- PhD in Veterinary Medicine, Microbiology, Virology, Immunology, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Molecular Biology.
- 2+ years of experience in R&D executive leadership position overseeing scientists or R&D teams, or 7+ years of experience in vaccine research and development, preferably in animal health.
- Demonstrated expertise in vaccines.
- Proven track record of accomplishment in product commercialization by developing and taking products based on new technologies successfully to the market.
- A business-oriented technologist with a commercialization focus, who is able to provide leadership, set priorities, delegate responsibilities, and meet timetables leading to the attainment of goals.
Benefits
- A competitive financial package- in addition to your salary, we offer an uncapped bonus opportunity, 401k match program, and paid vacation and holidays.
- Robust health and wellness support- we are proud to offer a fitness reimbursement (for your whole family!), an on-site fitness center, restaurant with seasonal fresh food options (and the ability to order food to bring home), and free fresh fruit in break areas.
- Continued learning opportunities- Kemin offers tuition reimbursement and recently launched a new corporate university with online and in-person training opportunities for growth and development throughout your entire career.
- The chance to give back to our world- Through our foundation of servant leadership, we are proud to offer ample service opportunities, including paid time off to do so.
- Opportunities to support our valued educators- Kemin is a proud sponsor of the Iowa Governor's Stem Advisory Council where we fund annual teacher's awards.
