
Director Process Chemistry
Stanley Cowton International, Richmond, VA, United States
Direct message the job poster from Stanley Cowton International
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. Seniority level
Seniority level Director Employment type
Employment type Full-time Job function
Job function Science and Research Industries Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Referrals increase your chances of interviewing at Stanley Cowton International by 2x Get notified about new Director of Chemistry jobs in
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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. Seniority level
Seniority level Director Employment type
Employment type Full-time Job function
Job function Science and Research Industries Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Referrals increase your chances of interviewing at Stanley Cowton International by 2x Get notified about new Director of Chemistry jobs in
Richmond, VA . Director Laboratory – Chromatography Lab Operations
We’re unlocking community knowledge in a new way. Experts add insights directly into each article, started with the help of AI.
#J-18808-Ljbffr