As the Associate Director of Facilities Engineering at Kite Pharma, Howard Jens plays a pivotal role in driving the success of capital projects within a cutting-edge commercial cell therapy manufacturing facility. With extensive experience in engineering management and project engineering across diverse sectors, including biotech...
As the Associate Director of Facilities Engineering at Kite Pharma, Howard Jens plays a pivotal role in driving the success of capital projects within a cutting-edge commercial cell therapy manufacturing facility. With extensive experience in engineering management and project engineering across diverse sectors, including biotech and pharmaceuticals, Howard leads a dedicated team of Project Engineers and Project Managers. His responsibilities encompass the entire lifecycle of facility projects, from initial design and construction to installation and commissioning, ensuring that all operations adhere to stringent regulatory standards and industry best practices.
Howard's expertise in managing complex project portfolios is complemented by his strategic approach to scope, budget, and schedule management. He is adept at navigating the intricacies of ISO classified and EU grade clean room environments, ensuring compliance with critical regulations such as 21 CFR Part 11. His leadership extends beyond project execution; he actively supports regulatory audits and oversees change control processes, ensuring that deviations are managed effectively and that the facility remains aligned with the highest quality standards.
A personable and fair manager, Howard values work-life balance and fosters a collaborative environment that encourages cross-functional teamwork. His skills in CAPA, cleaning validation, and design control are instrumental in enhancing operational efficiency and maintaining the integrity of Kite Pharma's innovative therapies. As a goal-oriented professional, Howard Jens is committed to advancing the field of cell therapy manufacturing, leveraging his extensive knowledge and experience to contribute to the organization's mission of transforming patient care through groundbreaking treatments.
