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Senior Director Process Chemistry at Stanley Cowton International Richmond, VA

Stanley Cowton International, Richmond, VA, United States


Job Description Director / Senior Director – Process Chemistry

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?

We’re supporting a pioneering US-based pharmaceutical organization that’s 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 You’ll 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 We’re 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

: You’ll play a central role in the development and manufacturing of mission‑critical medicines in a company that’s still evolving and open to new ways of thinking

Visibility

: You’ll 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

You’ll need to be based in

Virginia

and comfortable working between two key sites in the

Richmond–Hopewell

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.

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