Head of IT 

Vancouver, WA (Hybrid option 2-3 days/week)

The Head of IT will lead the design, development, and execution of an IT strategy that drives growth, innovation, and operational excellence across Absci. This role reports directly to the CLO and requires a highly strategic, adaptable, and technically proficient IT leader to manage the IT landscape, ensuring compliance, security, and scalability in a regulated, high-growth biotech environment. The ideal candidate is a hands-on professional who enjoys a fast-paced environment and is more than willing to roll up their sleeves to get things done. The position requires consistent on-site presence at our Vancouver, WA location.

Responsibilities: 

Strategic Leadership and Innovation: Develop and implement an IT roadmap aligned with our strategic growth. Collaborate with AI, Drug Creation, BD, Finance, HR, and Legal/IP teams to drive robust, scalable, and secure systems that support business goals. Provide leadership and mentorship to members of the current IT team.

Infrastructure and Systems Integration: Lead the integration and management of enterprise software, cloud platforms, and network solutions across our IT ecosystem. Anticipate challenges to stay ahead in a dynamic environment.

Data Security, Cybersecurity and Compliance: Safeguard our sensitive data by overseeing all security and compliance efforts, including audits and risk management, and ensure alignment with industry regulations.

Quality Systems and Regulatory Alignment: Ensure IT solutions support regulatory requirements. Integrate IT systems that comply with GxP, 21 CFR Part 11, and other regulatory standards.

Cross-functional collaboration: Act as a trusted advisor to senior leadership, translating technical capabilities into business strategy. Communicate IT and business alignment plans to employees, partners, and stakeholders.

Governance and Risk Management: Implement IT governance frameworks, policies, and risk management strategies, including to maintain SOX and any other relevant regulatory compliance standards. Ensure business continuity, disaster recovery procedures, and data integrity across IT services.

Budget and Financial Oversight: Analyze costs, manage the IT budget, and advise on the financial impact of technology decisions. Present IT metrics, KPIs, and project updates to stakeholders.

Vendor and Partner Strategy: Build and manage relationships with vendors and external partners, negotiate contracts, and ensure the team leverages best-in-class technology to achieve strategic objectives.

Qualifications:

• A bachelor’s degree in computer science, electrical engineering, information systems or related technology field (graduate degree a plus)
• 10+ years of work and management experience in biotech or within laboratory environments, with significant expertise in scaling infrastructure in high-growth organizations, including relevant experience in IT compliance and governance. 
• Strong knowledge of SOX compliance, GxP regulations, 21 CFR Part 11, and data privacy laws (e.g., GDPR, 201 CMR 17.00). 
• Proven expertise in IT security, compliance frameworks, and risk management.
• Experience with laboratory software and systems such as LIMS (Benchling, Sapio, LAbVantage, STARLIMS, etc.), ELNs, and other laboratory instrument systems
• Experience with lab instrument hardware/software automation
• Extensive experience with core ERP and HRIS systems, including integration, maintenance, and workflow optimization.
• Familiarity with generative AI tools such as OpenAI/ChatrGPT/, LLMs, Github copilot, and the like, as well as privacy and security concerns.  
• Strong organizational and interpersonal skills, project management skills, and ability to communicate cross-functionally across the organization.

Preferred (but not required):

• Direct experience with Netsuite and Coupa

The salary range for this position is $220,000 - 270,000/year. Competitive equity package applies. Pay offered may vary depending on job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. In addition to equity, compensation packages include a wide range of medical, dental, vision benefits and ability to participate in our employee stock purchase plan.