Collaborator Project Manager

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Collaborator Project Manager

Application Deadline: 1 February 2026

Department: S-MIC Operations

Employment Type: Permanent - Full Time

Location: Stevenage (SMIC)

Description

The Collaborator Project Manager will manage the day-to-day progression of projects from initiation through to closure, while supporting CGT Catapult's relationship with Collaborators throughout onboarding and their occupancy at the Stevenage and Braintree Manufacturing Innovation Centres (MIC's). The Collaborator Project Manager will also oversee internal projects that contribute to the ongoing development and improvement of the MIC's and the wider cell and gene therapy cluster at both sites. In addition, the role will support continuous improvement initiatives within the PM function across the MICs.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage the full lifecycle of Collaborators at the MIC's from onboarding through day-to-day engagement to contract exit ensuring a professional, efficient, and mutually beneficial experience
• Lead the planning and delivery of internal and external projects, including financial oversight, stakeholder management, risk and issue management, and alignment with CGT Catapult PMO standards
• Serve as the primary point of contact for Collaborators, maintaining strong working relationships, coordinating operational and quality activities, resolving issues promptly, and escalating appropriately when required
• Coordinate Collaborator manufacturing schedules during routine operations and planned site events (e.g. facility shutdowns), ensuring minimal disruption and operational continuity
• Support the Business Development team by hosting Collaborator visits, preparing costings and Additional Input Agreements (AIAs), contributing to negotiations, and supporting contract development and execution
• Work closely with Engineering, Operations, and Quality teams to ensure Collaborator requirements including facility modifications, documentation, and compliance needs are effectively planned, reviewed, and executed
• Manage internal (non-collaborator) projects independently, ensuring delivery of objectives and business benefits to agreed time, cost, and quality
• Prepare, review, and maintain GMP and quality documentation related to PM function (e.g., SOPs, quality records), ensuring timely closure and adherence to internal standards
• Contribute to continuous improvement by sharing best practices across the CGT Catapult organisation and supporting enhancements within the PM function
• Provide clear and timely reporting on project progress, risks, mitigation plans, and financial status to internal and external stakeholders
• Direct and coordinate cross-functional teams within CGT Catapult to ensure the timely execution of project action plans and achievement of defined milestones

Experience:

• Extensive hands-on project management experience managing all aspects of the project lifecycle including financial oversight, planning, scheduling, resource management, stakeholder engagement, and day-to-day delivery
• Proven experience working within a GMP environment, ideally within the cell and gene therapy sector
• Experience in simultaneously managing multiple projects of varying scale, complexity, and duration

Skills, Knowledge and Expertise

• Highly motivated, pragmatic, and aligned with CGT Catapult's mission to advance the UK cell and gene therapy industry
• Strong interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills with high emotional intelligence and the ability to build effective relationships
• Strong understanding of Quality Assurance and Regulatory requirements desirable
• Strong track record in relationship management within biologics contract manufacturing or a comparable regulated industry
• Hands-on, proactive approach with the ability to take initiative, work independently, and remain adaptable in a fast-paced environment
• Resilient, well-organised, and capable of managing multiple priorities while maintaining excellent attention to detail
• Collaborative team player able to work effectively with Programme Managers, external and internal project leads using various methodologies, and the CGT Catapult's PMO
• Quick learner, flexible, and able to respond to evolving project needs and stakeholder expectations
• Proficient in Microsoft applications and familiar with tools such as Smartsheet, SAP, and Board
• Committed to continuous learning and professional development, staying current with best practices in project management and the sector
• Able to perform well under pressure and maintain a solutions-oriented mindset
• Willingness to travel as needed to support project delivery across CGT Catapult sites
• Ambitious, driven, and enthusiastic about building a high-impact career in the cell and gene therapy sector

Education / Qualifications:

• MSc or BSc in a relevant life sciences, engineering, or commercial discipline
• Formal project management qualifications (e.g., PRINCE2, APM PMQ, Agile) are desirable