Site Head Australia

Become a member of the BioNTech Family!

As a part of our team of more than 5.000 pioneers, you will play a key role in developing solutions for some of the most crucial scientific challenges of our age. Within less than a year, we were able to develop our COVID-19 mRNA vaccine following the highest scientific and ethical standards - writing medical history.

We aim to reduce the suffering of people with life-changing therapies by harnessing the potential of the immune system to develop novel therapies against cancer and infectious diseases. While doing so, we are guided by our three company values: united, innovative, passionate. Get in touch with us if you are looking to be a part of creating hope for a healthy future in many people's lives.

Site Head* Australia

BioNTech is establishing an mRNA research and manufacturing facility in Melbourne based on its modular mRNA manufacturing approach called BioNTainers that will support R&D and the evaluation of mRNA vaccine candidates in clinical trials in Australia, with the aim of strengthening Australia's mRNA ecosystem. In this exciting role, you will:

Be responsible for the development of a green-field manufacturing site capable of producing mRNA for non-clinical studies to inform lead vaccine selection and the subsequent GMP manufacture of mRNA vaccines for clinical trial supply.

Be responsible for the management of the site including day-to-day manufacturing operations. Responsibilities include achieving the set targets for the site from site development, through start up and the transition to routine operations as well as running continuous improvements linked to KPI's. Ensure that both industry and global standards are applied along the value chain, from procurement to delivery of product.

Collaborate with external partners with the aim of strengthening Australia's mRNA ecosystem. Responsibilities include partnering with external parties to support the transition of projects into non-clinical development and potential clinical manufacturing, identifying and assessing innovative research programs and executing alliances in line with BioNTech's corporate strategy in Australia.

Lead and manage all in-country business decisions and accountable for P&L at BioNTech Australia.

Your main responsibilities are:

• Work in close partnership and alignment with internal functions to meet the needs of ecosystem partners and clients in order to support the transition of projects into non-clinical development and potential clinical manufacturing with the aim of strengthening Australia's mRNA ecosystem.
• Work in close partnership and alignment with the global modular manufacturing organization to establish the BioNTainer manufacturing site including oversight of construction, equipment installation, qualification and validation activities.
• Provide leadership for the successful set up and operation of the manufacturing facility including delivering on all business objectives to achieve seamless integration and results.
• Ensure that all necessary processes are set up according to GMP and local regulatory requirements.
• Ensure that all aspects of technical operations within the assigned facilities functions are in compliance with BioNTech policies and standards in the area of regulatory compliance, Quality Assurance, GMP, Health, Safety, Security and Environmental Protection.
• Ensure operations per set schedule, budget and in accordance with GMP and local regulations.
• Drive the talent agenda: Leading people processes through recruitment, training, coaching and performance to meet all operation requirements sustaining both global and local competitiveness and diversity.
• Identify and evaluate business opportunities and present recommendations to senior management team.
• Lead communications and ensure alignment with global and regional teams, vendors, suppliers, local authorities, and others.
• Act as main contact person with local Victorian government and key stakeholders.

What you have to offer:

• University degree (MSc or higher) in Biological Sciences, Biochemistry, Biochemical Engineering, Pharmaceutical Development. Business degree or MBA desirable.
• +15 years of industry experience in the field of biopharmaceutical or vaccine manufacturing including experience running day-to-day operations in a regulated environment.
• Experience and understanding of the legal duties and responsibilities as a Director of an Australian company.
• Cross-functional experience in drug discovery and/or CMC/technical development highly desirable.
• Profound experiences in the life sciences, biotechnology or biopharmaceutical industry, at senior management level and ideally with international exposure.
• Prior experience leading cross-functional organizations and teams.
• Demonstrated track record of past achievements in the execution of large capital projects with prior experience working on a greenfield project highly desirable.
• Strong people and operations leadership skills including willingness to mentor team members and share knowledge.
• Ability to be agile and effectively collaborate in a dynamic, cross-functional environment with internal and external stakeholders.
• Ability to communicate effectively up and down, at all levels of the organization, present complex and/or new ideas with clarity and simplicity.
• Ability to work in an international team understanding cross-cultural perspectives for the transfer of know-how from Germany.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills to manage shifting priorities, demands and timelines. Ability to identify problems, define problem statements clearly and drive resolution through sound and systematic application of technical knowledge. Innovative and effective in solution development, risk management, and execution.
• Brings a positive, can-do attitude with the ability to succeed in a fast-paced work environment.
• Demonstrates sound judgment in collecting and synthesizing relevant data and information; communicates, influences, and escalates issues and decisions as needed.
• Takes accountability for actions, drives results, learns from mistakes. Is direct and truthful and therefore widely trusted - delivers on promises, goals, and expectations. Makes quality decisions and resolves problems rapidly. Asks "what can I do to help?

Benefits for you:

We offer a competitive compensation package which will be determined by the contract type and selected candidate's qualifications and experience.

How to apply:

Apply now and simply send us your application documents including Curriculum Vitae, copy of ID, copies of degree certificates and professional certificates, motivation letter as well as your contact details by using our online form.

Please note:

• Only applications sent via our online form shall be considered.
• Only Candidates with the right qualifications and relevant experience shall be shortlisted and
• Incomplete applications shall be rejected.
• Please note that BioNTech will run a background check during the hiring process

We are looking forward receiving your application.

• BioNTech does not tolerate discrimination, favoritism, or harassment based on gender, political opinion, religion or belief, nationality, ethnic or social origin, age, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, physical appearance, health status or any other aspect of personal status. We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment and are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. Most important - it's a match!

BioNTech - As unique as you

www.biontech.com