Chief Operating Officer

Nature’s Toolbox (NTx) is a venture-backed company for novel recombinant cell-free drug development and biomanufacturing.  NTx was founded on the principle that nature’s biology can be repurposed to improve the manufacturing speed, quality and cost of vaccines, biologics and therapeutics.  When fully operationalized, our platform technologies will rapidly advance medical innovation to benefit patients. NTx is emerging from its pre-commercial stage and has several collaborations underway that will be the foundation for global commercial relationships.

The Role

We are seeking a visionary Chief Operating Officer (COO) to lead and expand NTx’s operations, overseeing both product development and manufacturing functions to support our growth and partnerships. Reporting directly to the CEO, this individual will play a pivotal role in scaling manufacturing infrastructure, including both in-house and contract manufacturing operations within the U.S. While location for this role is flexible, the candidate must be willing to travel regularly to NTx’s offices in Rio Rancho, NM. The COO will be accountable for operational strategy, supply chain efficiency, and the quality, compliance, and financial performance of NTx’s manufacturing capabilities.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the design, build-out, and start-up of new manufacturing facilities and manage expansions across sites. Lead the supply strategy, site selection, capital planning, and construction oversight for NTx’s manufacturing footprint.
• Collaborate closely with R&D to ensure seamless integration of product development into manufacturing. Establish scalable processes for non-GMP and cGMP production, from bulk manufacturing to finished product.
• Spearhead initiatives that drive operational excellence, including the implementation of cutting-edge technologies, automation, and continuous improvement methodologies to enhance efficiency, safety, and product quality.
• Oversee all production functions, ensuring that NTx’s manufacturing of proprietary raw materials and drug substances meets the quality and supply needs for both domestic and international markets. Accountable for consistent, high-quality output that adheres to regulatory and customer specifications.
• Direct all aspects of supply chain management, including sourcing, logistics, and inventory, with responsibility for on-time delivery and inventory optimization. For outsourced production, lead contract negotiations, manage supplier relationships, oversee technology transfers, and ensure quality through audits and compliance checks.
• Ensure that all manufacturing operations meet relevant quality standards (GMP) and EHS regulations. Accountable for compliance and audit readiness for internal, agency, and customer audits.
• Management and integration of internal and external (CDMO) manufacturing.
• Drive a culture of safety across all operations. Implement and monitor safety protocols and conduct regular training to minimize risk and enhance employee well-being.
• Manage operational budgets, deliver on cost-of-goods targets, and achieve operating and capital expense goals. Lead cost reduction initiatives while driving operational efficiency.
• Assess operational capacity and align resources, including headcount, equipment, and capital, with production goals. Ensure lean and efficient resource utilization across both internal and outsourced manufacturing operations.
• Collaborate closely with HR, Finance, Commercial, and R&D as a member of the executive leadership team to support company-wide goals.

Qualifications

• MBA is required, with a degree in Life Sciences, Engineering, or Management preferred.
• 15+ years of experience in large-scale biotech or pharmaceutical manufacturing, with expertise in engineering, process development, and operational excellence. Experience in senior management, with hands-on experience leading large teams and cross-functional operations.
• Comprehensive understanding of cGMP regulations, US-based manufacturing requirements, and continuous improvement methodologies (e.g., Lean Six Sigma) to drive compliance and operational excellence.
• Proven experience in building, scaling, and managing teams, with strong communication skills to effectively engage stakeholders at all levels.

Compensation

• $250,000-$300,000 base + equity