Head of Manufacturing

Location: On-site

Type: Full-time

About KELI Therapeutics

KELI Therapeutics is a clinical-stage European biotech company based in Kaunas, Lithuania. We develop and manufacture advanced regenerative therapies using:

  • Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) for systemic inflammation

  • Chondrocyte-based therapies for orthopedic repair

  • Exosome-based wellness and skincare products

We operate under a licensed tissue establishment and GMP manufacturing framework. With €2.5 million in EIC Accelerator funding, we are preparing for a Phase I/II multicenter clinical trial in Acute Kidney Injury across five EU countries.

We are scaling toward international commercial readiness across Europe, the Gulf, Asia, and North America.

The Role

As Head of Manufacturing, you will lead all GMP production activities across our three core product platforms: MSCs, chondrocytes, and exosomes. This role combines hands-on oversight of cleanroom operations with strategic planning for future scale-up.

You’ll build and manage the manufacturing team, ensure GMP compliance, and deliver products on time and at clinical-grade quality standards.

Key Responsibilities

  • Lead daily operations across all manufacturing lines (MSCs, chondrocytes, exosomes)

  • Manage cleanroom readiness, staff, workflows, and documentation

  • Oversee batch execution and troubleshoot deviations in real time

  • Collaborate with QA/QC to ensure compliance and timely batch release

  • Drive the implementation of new processes and tech transfers

  • Plan for capacity scale-up, future automation, and facility expansion

  • Ensure team training and readiness for clinical, regulatory, and audit needs

What We’re Looking For

  • Degree in biotechnology, cell biology, or a related field

  • GMP manufacturing experience in ATMPs, biologics, or cell therapy

  • Leadership experience managing production teams and cleanroom operations

  • Deep understanding of GMP standards, documentation, and deviation handling

  • Strong operational mindset with the ability to move between strategy and execution

  • Hands-on, solutions-oriented, and ready to lead from the floor

What We Offer

  • Competitive salary (>2500 Eur Gross) based on experience and qualifications

  • Leadership role in one of the most clinically advanced cell therapy companies in Europe

  • Influence across three core product lines with global commercial potential

  • Purpose-built GMP facility and the opportunity to design for scale

  • Private health insurance

  • Personal time off

  • Relocation support

  • Annual training budget and professional development

  • Travel opportunities to trial sites and manufacturing partners

Why Join Us

  • You’ll lead the engine room of a company delivering real-world therapies.

  • You’ll have full ownership of GMP execution, scale-up, and new tech integration.

  • You’ll join a leadership team executing at a global scale—with real funding, real patients, and a defined mission.

  • You’ll help build a manufacturing capability that goes beyond a facility, into a platform.

  • You won’t inherit a system—you’ll shape it.

To Apply

Send your CV and a short cover letter to: global@keli.eu