Director / Senior Director Process Chemistry

All the relevant skills, qualifications and experience that a successful applicant will need are listed in the following description. Hopewell, Virginia Small Molecule | CDMO | Technical Leadership Are you a technically strong process chemist with leadership experience, looking for a high-impact role with visibility, autonomy, and long-term growth potential? Were supporting a pioneering US-based pharmaceutical organization thats transforming how essential medicines are developed and manufactured. With a strong public-health mission, a bold strategy, and a new(ish) team that values trust, collaboration, and open conversation, this is a unique opportunity to help shape the future of an ambitious CDMO. What Youll Do Lead small molecule process development projects from early-stage design through tech transfer and validation Serve as the technical SME for internal stakeholders and external manufacturing partners Own the strategic oversight of CMC elements, including QbD, DoE, regulatory filings, and risk assessments (e.g. FMEA, CPPs) Drive team development and be a visible, hands-on leader to a group of process chemists Engage in cross-functional collaboration with Quality, Regulatory, Program Management, MS&T, and Government Affairs Contribute to future growth by helping build out structure, systems, and best practices across the department What Were Looking For 7+ years in process chemistry leadership within pharma or CDMO environments Strong background in tech transfer, scale-up, and manufacturing Demonstrated ability to build and lead technical teams through change and growth Track record of hands-on involvement in IND/ANDA/NDA submissions and regulatory filings PhD in Organic Chemistry or equivalent experience highly preferred Why This Role? Impact: Youll play a central role in the development and manufacturing of mission-critical medicines in a company thats still evolving and open to new ways of thinking Visibility: Youll report into executive leadership and have influence across multiple sites and programs Growth: This is a potential successor role, with a clear path to take on broader leadership responsibilities in the near future Challenge: You'll help lead a business through scale-up, structure-building, and the occasional ambiguity that comes with being part of a high-growth, purpose-driven organization Location & Flexibility Youll need to be based in Virginia and comfortable working between two key sites in the RichmondHopewell area. Flexibility is built in, but presence is important, this is a people-facing leadership role. Interested in learning more? This search is being led by Stanley Cowton International. For a confidential conversation, please get in touch.