Custom Project Manager, Biosciences

Responsibilities

• Acts as a key liaison interfacing with a diverse range of internal departments and external stakeholders, fostering a collaborative, solutions-oriented working environment.
• Manage and track CMOs across all stages (from “Marketing Review” to “Shipping”), ensuring clear, timely communication with internal teams and external customers.
• Coordinate and communicate order status updates to the Sales team in a timely and transparent manner.
• Generate regular reports (weekly / monthly) for Sales and internal stakeholders; facilitate weekly meetings to review progress on new projects and active CMOs.
• Cook up and maintain strong cross-functional relationships; lead and guide teams consisting of representatives from diverse functions.
• Champion a first-time right culture promoting open, honest, and proactive communication among all involved parties.
• Oversee the initial capture, compilation, and validation of custom order requirements in partnership with customers and internal stakeholders.
• Prepare and verify accuracy of Master Acknowledgment Packets and review master control tasks related to custom media orders.
• Provide consistent project updates to Sales, Management, Customer Service, and Marketing leadership as needed.
• Identify and resolve discrepancies in order information or expectations; negotiate priorities and actions to meet customer requirements efficiently.
• Organize and facilitate regular cross-functional alignment meetings to ensure all teams are synchronized on custom product delivery timelines and requirements.
• Maintain comprehensive project documentation ensuring accuracy and accessibility.
• Develop detailed project timelines for new CMOs; track and report progress using established tools and frameworks.
• Measure and report project performance utilizing appropriate metrics, systems, and techniques.
• Update and maintain key process documents including DTI’s, SOPs, and Master Acknowledgement Packets for the Custom Media Team.

Requirements

• BS/BA degree in Life Sciences, Engineering, Business or related field is required.
• Project management professional (PMP) certification or equivalent is highly desirable.
• Minimum of 2 years relevant project management experience, preferably in a manufacturing, biopharmaceutical, or life science environment.
• Proven track record of managing custom or make-to-order products involving internal and external stakeholders.
• Experience working with contract manufacturing or familiarity with GMP or regulated manufacturing environments is strongly preferred.
• Demonstrated experience in inventory management and cross-functional coordination involving Sales, Procurement, Manufacturing and Quality departments is preferred.
• Working knowledge of product lifecycle stages from development through commercial manufacturing is advantageous.
• High degree of organizational skills (planning, coordinating, and multitasking) related to time-sensitive creation/production of products used in a technical environment.
• Strong analytical mindset with problem-solving skills; ability to identify gaps and implement corrective actions proactively.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to data accuracy and quality.
• Proficient in project management tools and software (e.g. MS Project, Jira, Smartsheet) and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Basic understanding of cell culture bioprocessing and standard cell culture media preparation methods.
• Knowledge of regulatory requirements and quality systems (e.g. ISO, FDA GMP) is preferred.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills with the ability to convey complex information clearly and concisely.
• Strong interpersonal skills including diplomacy and negotiation abilities, and maintain/project a positive attitude, especially during difficult situations.
• Customer-focused mindset with a sense of ownership and accountability.
• Adaptable and flexible to changing priorities in a dynamic manufacturing environment.
• Excellent presentation skills (both in small/direct meetings with management, as well as in large venues such as Sales meetings).

Pay

For California, the base salary range for this position is $69,500 - $90,200. Compensation for the successful candidate will depend on various factors (e.g., qualifications, education, prior experience, location, etc.).