***NOTE: CURRENTLY CLOSED AS UNDER OFFER*** Job Title: Executive Project Manager - Pilot/scaler and lab Facility Construction
Organization: Vancouver Island Life Sciences Association (VILS)
Location: Victoria, BC
Job Summary: The Executive Project Manager will play a pivotal role in the successful establishment of a multi-use, modular biomanufacturing scaler/pilot and wet lab facility for new and establishing life sciences companies. This individual will report to the VILS board and oversee the coordination and execution of the facility's design and construction phase, actively engage in tenant recruitment and consultation efforts, and create a comprehensive business plan for the facility. The role will serve as a key liaison between the VILS Board of Directors, contractors, potential tenants, and other stakeholders, ensuring effective communication and reporting on project-related matters. This position holds the potential to evolve into a Managing Director role upon completion of the facility build.
Responsibilities:
- Business Plan Development:
- Complete a comprehensive business plan for the facility, outlining its vision, mission, operational model, revenue streams, marketing strategy, operational requirements and growth potential.
- Conduct market analysis to identify target industries, customer segments, and competitive landscape.
- Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to gather data and insights to inform the business plan.
- Develop financial projections, including revenue forecasts, cost estimates, and ROI analysis.
- Grant Application
- Apply for and oversee application for funds from funding sources including Canadian Federal government agencies.
- Identify additional government, non-profit, corporate, and other grant/funding opportunities with aid of board and complete application processes, reporting to board on progress.
- In collaboration with Board members, meet and liaise with representatives from funding bodies and other stakeholders.
- Project Management:
- Coordinate with Design/Build Group and other contractors and stakeholders to oversee and adapt as needed the comprehensive project plan, including design, budget, timeline, and quality standards.
- Oversee the design and construction process, ensuring compliance with regulatory guidelines (e.g. may include Biosafety containment (eg BSL2), Good Laboratory Practices (GLP), Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), CLIA, sterile, clean, etc) and industry best practices.
- Regularly monitor and report to the VILS Board on project progress, identify risks or issues, and recommend and implement appropriate solutions to ensure timely completion.
- Tenant Recruitment and Management:
- Develop and implement a strategic plan for attracting tenants to the facility.
- Conduct market research to identify potential tenant companies and establish and continue relationships with potential partner organizations, incubators, and accelerators.
- Collaborate with potential tenants to understand their needs, negotiate lease agreements, and facilitate the onboarding process.
- Stakeholder Engagement and Reporting:
- Act as the primary point of contact for the VILS Board, providing regular updates on design, business plan, and other key decisions.
- Collaborate with board members to develop and present recommendations on critical project elements.
- Prepare comprehensive reports, presentations, and other relevant materials to keep stakeholders informed about project status and outcomes.
- Collaboration and Coordination:
- Foster effective working relationships with contractors, architects, engineers, and other relevant parties to ensure seamless project execution.
- Coordinate with internal teams and external stakeholders to align project goals and facilitate successful implementation.
- Transition possible to Managing Director Role:
- Contribute to the development of a long-term strategic plan for the facility.
- Collaborate with the Board to define the role's responsibilities, qualifications, and succession plan.
- As the facility build nears completion, assume leadership responsibilities and support transition into the Managing Director role, overseeing the facility's day-to-day operations, tenant management, strategic growth, and execution of the business plan.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor's or higher degree in a relevant field such as project management, life sciences, business administration, or a related discipline. A master's degree or other relevant certification would be considered an asset.
- Proven experience in physical project coordination, preferably in a scientific or construction environment. Experience in managing and/or developing a certified facility (ie BSL2, GMP etc.) strongly preferred.
- Strong understanding of life sciences industry trends, research, and development processes.
- Excellent organizational and time management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
- Effective communication and interpersonal skills to engage and collaborate with diverse stakeholders.
- Demonstrated problem-solving abilities, with a proactive and solution-oriented approach.
- Experience in tenant recruitment, lease negotiations, business development, and business plan development is highly desirable.
- Familiarity with regulatory requirements and compliance in the life sciences field is strongly preferred.
- Flexibility to adapt to evolving responsibilities as the project progresses.
We offer a competitive compensation and benefits package commensurate with experience.
Start Date: As soon as possible
Duration: 18+ months with the possibility to transition to Managing Director role
To apply: Please submit your resume, cover letter, and references to vils@vils.ca. While we greatly appreciate all applications, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews. We will accept applications and conduct interviews until a candidate is selected for this position.
Note: This job description is a general outline of the duties and qualifications for the position. It is subject to change based on candidate and or organizational needs and may be revised or updated at any time.
