Director/ Sr. Director, Operations

Profluent is an AI-first protein design company. Founded in 2022, we develop deep generative models to design and validate novel, functional proteins to revolutionize biomedicine. Based in Emeryville, CA, we are backed by leading investors including Spark Capital, Insight Partners, Air Street Capital, AIX Ventures, and Convergent Ventures.

At Profluent, we work at the intersection of AI-driven protein design and cutting-edge gene editing technologies. We’re looking for a strategic and hands-on Director / Senior Director of Operations to lead and scale core operational functions across the company.

As a key member of the team, you’ll oversee core functions across HR, IT, Finance, and Lab Operations, along with other operational areas critical to company growth. This role reports directly to the CEO and will manage an existing team supporting core operational functions.

You’ll bring a strong foundational understanding of these areas and apply that knowledge to build scalable systems that support our next phase of growth. Success in this role requires someone who performs strongly in a fast-paced environment and is both a leader and a builder - someone who takes initiative, drives outcomes, and builds systems and processes from the ground up.

This is an excellent opportunity to shape the foundation of how our company runs and make an impact during a critical growth stage.

Responsibilities 

• Lead and empower a team across key operational areas and lab management, supporting their development and driving strong execution across functions
• Oversee all core operational functions, including HR, IT, Finance and Lab Operations
• Lead day-to-day execution and long-term planning across departments, ensuring alignment with company goals and operational excellence
• Partner closely with the CEO and leadership on strategic planning and cross-functional initiatives and translate high-level goals into operational execution across teams
• Identify gaps, streamline systems, and build the infrastructure needed to support the company’s next stage of growth

Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience across G&A functions, including but not limited, to Operations, HR, Finance, and other cross-functional leadership roles.
• Bachelor’s degree 
•  Demonstrated leadership across a combination of key operational areas 
• Proven people manager with experience leading small, high-performing teams
• Strong project management, communication, and cross-functional collaboration skills
• Decisive and action-oriented, with an ability to design and implement effective systems 
• Comfortable operating in ambiguity, building structure, and driving progress in a lean environment
• Working knowledge of key compliance areas (e.g., labor law, data privacy, safety regulations)
• Financial fluency, able to partner on budgeting, vendor management, and spend tracking

Preferences (but not required)

• Experience in biotech and/or a high-growth startup
• MBA or advanced degree
• Familiarity with tools such as Rippling, Carta, QuickBooks, Ramp, Pilot etc

Work Authorization Requirement

Applicants must have ongoing work authorization in the United States that does not require employer sponsorship. Sponsorship will not be provided now or at any time in the future for this position.

Employment Eligibility VerificationLegal authorization to work in the United States is required. In compliance with federal law, all persons hired must verify their identity and work eligibility and complete the required employment verification form upon hire.

What we offer at Profluent

• A high-growth opportunity with meaningful impact
• Competitive compensation package
• Health insurance (health/dental/vision)
• Generous paid time off (PTO) policy
• Commitment to physical and mental well-being
• More benefits and perks to be added!

Profluent Bio, Inc is an equal opportunity employer promoting diversity and inclusion in the workspace. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, marital status, age, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical conditions, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender (including gender identity and gender expression), sex (which includes pregnancy, childbirth, and breastfeeding), genetic information, taking or requesting statutorily protected leave, or any other basis protected by law.