Let’s get started
By clicking ‘Next’, I agree to the Terms of Service
and Privacy Policy
Jobs / Job page
Associate Director, External Quality Operations image - Rise Careers
Job details

Associate Director, External Quality Operations

We are seeking a highly motivated individual to join the BlueRock team as an Associate Director in the Quality Assurance (QA) department reporting to the Sr. Director of External Quality Operations.  This position will be responsible for providing QA oversight for cGMP activities at external contract organizations (CxOs) for all relevant operations of aseptically produced investigational cell and gene therapy products.  This position will work with a diverse group of internal and external partners to provide a continuously improving, controlled, compliant and effective program.


Responsibilities:
  • Lead cGMP QA compliance activities at external CxOs for all relevant operations. including raw material testing, GMP manufacturing, QC testing, release, stability, packaging/labeling, lot disposition and clinical supply activities for aseptically produced investigational cell and gene therapy products
  • Oversee quality aspects for commissioning, qualification and validation activities for equipment, batch record review, deviation handling and quality event processes at external CxOs
  • Support complex external OOS investigations, manufacturing investigations, change controls and implementation of CAPAs at external CxOs and internally, when applicable
  • Act as QA representative at internal project meetings and meetings with external CxOs; liaise with external QA representatives and maintain external relationships
  • Maintain knowledge of current industry standards and trends in best practices for compliance with cGMP regulations
  • Assist in the preparation of regulatory documents, including briefing documents, IND filings, etc.


Minimum Requirements:
  • Life Sciences-based MSc or PhD with a minimum of 8 years’ experience in pharma, biopharma or biotech with demonstrated knowledge of relevant cGMP regulations and QA operations in a GMP-regulated environment
  • Strong knowledge of GMP application to production and QC testing of biologics and aseptic processing, preferably with experience in cell and gene therapy
  • Extensive experience working with CxOs and contract testing labs, including negotiating Quality Agreements and resolving quality issues
  • Strong knowledge of regulations and industry standards, including cGMP and applicable guidance documents, ICH guidance documents, USP, Ph. Eur, ISO and associated global regulations
  • Knowledge of medical device quality requirements and knowledge of ISO requirements for medical device production and testing is an asset
  • Ability to lead teams in meeting aggressive project timelines and to constructively engage team members in resolving conflicts
  • Highly adaptable and skilled problem solver with a proactive attitude comfortable with ambiguity; skilled with influencing and negotiating with stakeholders of various levels
  • Ability and willingness to work in alternate time zones, if required (ie. early morning, late evening, possibly overnight)


#LI-AL1

BlueRock Therapeutics Glassdoor Company Review
3.5 Glassdoor star iconGlassdoor star iconGlassdoor star icon Glassdoor star icon Glassdoor star icon
BlueRock Therapeutics DE&I Review
3.8 Glassdoor star iconGlassdoor star iconGlassdoor star icon Glassdoor star icon Glassdoor star icon
CEO of BlueRock Therapeutics
BlueRock Therapeutics CEO photo
Seth Ettenberg
Approve of CEO

Average salary estimate

$165000 / YEARLY (est.)
min
max
$150000K
$180000K

If an employer mentions a salary or salary range on their job, we display it as an "Employer Estimate". If a job has no salary data, Rise displays an estimate if available.

What You Should Know About Associate Director, External Quality Operations, BlueRock Therapeutics

Join BlueRock’s dynamic team as an Associate Director, External Quality Operations in our Cambridge, Massachusetts office! This is an exciting opportunity for a driven professional who thrives in a fast-paced environment. In this role, you’ll take charge of providing crucial QA oversight for cGMP activities at our external contract organizations (CxOs), focusing on investigational cell and gene therapy products. Collaborating with a diverse group of internal and external partners, your mission will be to maintain a continuously improving and compliant program. You’ll lead QA compliance activities at CxOs, ensuring the quality aspects of various operations, from raw material testing to clinical supply activities. Your insights and leadership will be vital in overseeing commissioning, qualification, and validation activities, while supporting complex investigations and change controls. As the QA representative in meetings, both internal and external, you’ll build and maintain strong relationships, ensuring that our standards meet industry best practices. With a life sciences background and significant experience in the pharma/biotech industry, your skills in GMP application and problem-solving will shine here at BlueRock. If you’re passionate about driving quality excellence and eager to work in a collaborative environment, we’d love to meet you!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Associate Director, External Quality Operations Role at BlueRock Therapeutics
What are the responsibilities of an Associate Director, External Quality Operations at BlueRock?

As the Associate Director of External Quality Operations at BlueRock, you will lead cGMP QA compliance activities for investigational cell and gene therapy products at external contract organizations. Your responsibilities include overseeing the quality aspects of various operations like raw material testing, GMP manufacturing, QC testing, packaging, and lot disposition. You will also be involved in complex investigations related to quality issues and act as a point of contact at internal and external meetings, making this role integral to maintaining our high quality standards.

Join Rise to see the full answer
What qualifications are needed for the Associate Director position at BlueRock?

To successfully apply for the Associate Director, External Quality Operations role at BlueRock, you’ll need a life sciences-based MSc or PhD and at least 8 years of experience in the pharma or biotech sectors. Candidates should possess a strong understanding of relevant cGMP regulations and QA operations, particularly in the context of biologics and aseptic processing. Additional experience with external contract organizations and knowledge of medical device quality requirements will be advantageous.

Join Rise to see the full answer
How does the Associate Director role at BlueRock contribute to project success?

The Associate Director, External Quality Operations at BlueRock plays a pivotal role in project success by ensuring that all quality assurance standards are met throughout the production and testing stages of investigational cell and gene therapy products. By leading compliance activities and overseeing quality investigations, this position not only mitigates risks but also enhances relationships with CxOs, paving the way for streamlined operations and successful project timelines.

Join Rise to see the full answer
What is the work environment like for the Associate Director at BlueRock?

The work environment for an Associate Director, External Quality Operations at BlueRock is collaborative and fast-paced, involving interactions with various internal teams and external partners. You'll be part of a supportive team that values innovative problem-solving and adaptability, giving you the opportunity to make significant contributions to the quality assurance landscape in the biotech industry.

Join Rise to see the full answer
What skills are essential for the Associate Director role at BlueRock?

Essential skills for the Associate Director, External Quality Operations position at BlueRock include extensive knowledge of cGMP regulations, strong leadership abilities, and excellent communication skills. The ability to negotiate quality agreements, resolve conflicts, and adapt to evolving project needs is vital. Furthermore, having a proactive approach to problem-solving and the capability to influence stakeholders at various levels will greatly benefit your success in this role.

Join Rise to see the full answer
Common Interview Questions for Associate Director, External Quality Operations
What experience do you have with cGMP regulations in the pharma industry?

In answering this question, you should highlight specific instances where you applied your knowledge of cGMP regulations to ensure compliance. Discuss any relevant roles where you attended audits, conducted training sessions, or led initiatives to uphold these standards. Providing concrete examples can showcase your expertise and show interviewers that you are well-versed in industry regulations.

Join Rise to see the full answer
How do you handle conflicts with external partners such as CxOs?

To answer this question effectively, focus on a specific example where you successfully navigated a conflict. Explain the situation, your approach to resolving it, and the outcome. Emphasize your communication skills and the importance of maintaining strong relationships with partners while upholding quality standards.

Join Rise to see the full answer
Describe your experience with quality investigations and management of CAPAs.

When discussing your experience with quality investigations and Corrective Action/Preventive Action (CAPA) management, provide details about the types of investigations you conducted, the methodologies you used, and the impact of the CAPA on quality improvement. Highlight your analytical skills and your ability to implement effective solutions in a timely manner.

Join Rise to see the full answer
How do you ensure regulatory documents meet quality standards?

Talk about your approach to preparing regulatory documents, emphasizing attention to detail and collaboration with cross-functional teams. Explain how you ensure that all documents are compliant with industry standards, review processes, and deadlines. Mention your engagement in continuous improvement efforts to streamline the document preparation process.

Join Rise to see the full answer
What strategies do you use to stay updated on industry trends?

Discuss your commitment to staying abreast of industry trends by following relevant publications, attending conferences, and participating in webinars. Mention any professional organizations or networks that you’re a part of, and how you leverage these resources to enhance your knowledge and apply best practices in your role.

Join Rise to see the full answer
Can you explain your experience with bio-manufacturing and testing of biologics?

When addressing this question, provide an overview of your experience in bio-manufacturing and biopharmaceutical testing. Highlight specific examples of projects you worked on, detailing your role, the techniques used, and the outcomes. This demonstrates not only your technical skills but also your ability to lead teams through complex operations.

Join Rise to see the full answer
How do you typically approach quality audits?

In your response, showcase your structured approach to quality audits, including preparation, execution, and follow-up. Discuss how you gather and analyze data beforehand, your methods for interacting with audit teams, and how you address findings post-audit to enhance compliance and operational efficiency.

Join Rise to see the full answer
What role does teamwork play in your quality assurance approach?

Discuss how teamwork is integral to achieving quality assurance goals. Cite examples of collaborative projects where cross-functional teamwork led to successful outcomes, and illustrate how you foster an inclusive environment where diverse perspectives contribute to enhanced quality standards.

Join Rise to see the full answer
How do you prioritize tasks when managing multiple quality assurance projects?

Explain your prioritization methodology, perhaps using a mix of urgency and impact as criteria. Discuss tools or strategies you employ, such as project management software or risk assessments, to ensure that critical projects receive the attention they require and meet deadlines.

Join Rise to see the full answer
What is your experience with negotiating quality agreements?

When discussing your experience with negotiating quality agreements, highlight the key elements of successful agreements you have participated in. Provide examples of your approach to negotiation, focusing on how you balanced the needs of both parties while ensuring regulatory compliance and quality standards.

Join Rise to see the full answer
Similar Jobs
Photo of the Rise User
Aerin Medical Hybrid Mountain View, California, United States
Posted 12 days ago

Aerin Medical is seeking a Senior Post Market Specialist to drive innovation and patient care in the medical device industry.

Photo of the Rise User
Posted 6 days ago

Lead Kaseya's Quality Assurance team in optimizing support services and enhancing customer experience across global operations.

Photo of the Rise User
McLane Company Hybrid US, Rice County, MN; Minnesota, Northfield, MN
Posted 19 hours ago

We are looking for a dedicated Safety & QA Project Manager to uphold our commitment to quality and safety at McLane.

Photo of the Rise User
Crown Cork And Seal Hybrid US, Spartanburg County, SC; South Carolina, Spartanburg, SC
Posted 11 days ago

Join Crown Cork & Seal as a Quality Assurance Inspector and play a crucial role in maintaining packaging quality for consumers around the globe.

Photo of the Rise User
Posted 13 days ago

Take on a vital role as an RN Clinical Compliance Auditor/Analyst with MedStar Health, ensuring adherence to compliance regulations and enhancing clinical integrity.

Photo of the Rise User

Dewberry seeks a skilled Deputy Construction Quality Assurance Manager to oversee quality assurance processes on significant infrastructure projects in Hampton Roads, Virginia.

Join a dedicated Quality Assurance team in Greenville to ensure customer satisfaction through high-quality product inspections.

Photo of the Rise User
Hillcrest HealthCare System Hybrid US, Tulsa County, OK; Oklahoma, Tulsa, OK
Posted 11 days ago

Hillcrest Medical Center is looking for a dedicated Quality & Patient Safety Manager to improve patient care and safety standards.

At BlueRock, our mission is to create authentic cellular medicines to reverse devastating diseases, with the vision of improving the human condition.

10 jobs
MATCH
VIEW MATCH
FUNDING
SENIORITY LEVEL REQUIREMENT
TEAM SIZE
EMPLOYMENT TYPE
Full-time, on-site
DATE POSTED
April 13, 2025

Subscribe to Rise newsletter

Risa star 🔮 Hi, I'm Risa! Your AI
Career Copilot
Want to see a list of jobs tailored to
you, just ask me below!
LATEST ACTIVITY
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Bedford just viewed Human Resource Director at Locus Fermentation Solutions
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Columbus just viewed Cart pusher Courtesy Clerk at Meijer
Photo of the Rise User
12 people applied to Junior QC Tester at Ubisoft
Photo of the Rise User
100+ people applied to Manual QA Backend/Web at LucidLink
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Cleveland just viewed Strategic Finance Analyst at Hungryroot
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Cleveland just viewed Senior Finance Analyst at Stryker
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Cleveland just viewed Global Finance & Strategy Analyst at The Wonderful Company
Photo of the Rise User
11 people applied to QA Specialist at OFX
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Columbus just viewed Social Media and Marketing Coordinator at Empora Title
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Cincinnati just viewed Bank Account Customer Service at Discover
W
Someone from OH, Cincinnati just viewed Customer Service Advisor - Remote at Wns Global Services
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Cincinnati just viewed Creative Director, OnBrand, Copywriter at American Express
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Mount Vernon just viewed Construction Inspector - Transportation at AMT Engineering
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Oxford just viewed Sustainability Specialist - Climate Strategy at Quantis
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Akron just viewed HR Business Partner - COO at Goodyear
Photo of the Rise User
100+ people applied to QC Tester at Ubisoft
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Toledo just viewed Clinical Research Scientist at WHOOP
X
Someone from OH, Cleveland just viewed Lead / Senior Analyst - SAP HCM at Xcellink Pte Ltd
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Akron just viewed Accounting Co-Op at VEGA Americas
R
Someone from OH, Cincinnati just viewed Director, Payroll Tax at Ryan
P
Someone from OH, Columbus just viewed Data Science for Smart Agriculture- Part-Time at PSU