VP, Research and Development

Description

AVITA Medical is a regenerative medicine company leading the development and commercialization of devices and autologous cellular therapies for skin restoration. Our FDA-approved RECELL System technology platform treats patients with thermal burn wounds and full-thickness skin defects and is used for re-pigmentation of stable depigmented vitiligo lesions by harnessing the regenerative properties of a patients’ own skin to create Spray-on Skin® cells. 

POSITION SUMMARY

The Vice President of R&D will play a pivotal role in driving the strategic direction and operational excellence of our research and development efforts. This position will be responsible for overseeing the development of innovative tissue regeneration technologies, from concept through commercialization. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of medical device development, a strong track record of leading high-performing R&D teams, and a passion for advancing the science of regenerative medicine. The Vice President of R&D will be responsible for the planning, oversight, coordination and delivery of key organizational initiatives working across multiple areas including R&D, commercialization, operations, supply chain, IT, regulatory, clinical, and scientific affairs. 

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Develop and deliver products and processes to meet AVITA’s longer term business and product needs.
• Develop and manage a robust R&D pipeline, ensuring timely and cost-effective development of new products. 
• Drive innovation by identifying emerging trends and technologies in tissue regeneration. 
• Drive scientific activities to support customers, collaborate on investor-initiated studies, or pre-clinical and clinical studies.
• Create a strong scientific foundation to address customer inquiries, root cause analysis, or product development issues. 
• Work with contract research and manufacturing organizations as needed to ensure delivery of agreed upon development milestones with respect to timelines, budgets, and quality.
• Review and assess internal processes for efficiencies, gaps, and improvements to increase the team’s output.
• Oversee the R&D team and manage for success by working cross-functionally to ensure quality, compliance, and the collaborative delivery of key product and process improvements. 
• Lead, mentor, and inspire a multidisciplinary team of scientists, engineers, and researchers.
• Foster a culture of collaboration, creativity, and accountability within the R&D department.
• Oversee recruitment, development, and performance management of R&D staff.
• Provide oversight and ensure smooth transition of research projects, tech transfer of any new products, or process improvements, from R&D into Operations.
• Manage the transfer of both processes and equipment between research and operations to ensure effective execution from research through to commercial implementation.

Requirements

• Travel: Up to 15% or as needed
• A life sciences or Engineering degree from a recognized educational institution is required.
• A higher-level degree, such as a PhD in engineering, life sciences, or physical sciences is preferred.
• Experience leading highly technical teams is a must.
• A minimum of 15 years’ experience within the medical device, biotech or pharmaceutical industry, or an advanced degree with a minimum of 10 years industry experience.
• Experienced at managing contract engineering and development programs. 
• Familiarity with product launch and commercialization of an FDA and/or EMA regulated product.
• Excellent interpersonal and partnering skills to facilitate the building of relationships.
• Experienced in alliance management.
• Demonstrated ability to think strategically and deliver tactically.
• Demonstrated ability to develop, monitor and manage budgets.
• Proven communication skills, both written and oral, and the ability to present data in a professional manner to a variety of audiences.
• Ability to emphasize performance and initiatives, optimize resources, as well as analyze and solve problems.
• Ability to effectively prioritize and execute tasks in a complex environment.
• Must be comfortable working in a fast moving, highly entrepreneurial environment. A strong results orientation is required. 
• Experienced in hiring and mentoring key functional employees and developing highly functioning and productive cross-functional teams.

EEOC: AVITA Medical is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and business needs.