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
The estimated salary range for this role is between $195,000 - $255,000. This role is