Maolong Liu

Senior Director, Head of Operations, Cell and Gene Therapy (CGT) @ Lonza

About

Biopharma executive with 14+ years of progressive experience across biologics and cell & gene therapy operations. Proven track record in building and leading MSAT functions, scaling from early-phase development to commercial manufacturing in both large-scale (20kL) and single-use (1kL/2kL) settings. Extensive expertise in technology transfer, process validation, process support, and lifecycle management. As Senior Director and Site Leadership Team member at Lonza, led transformation of MSAT into a high-impact function—growing delivery capacity to >6 Tech Transfers and up to 4 commercialization programs annually. Implemented real-time monitoring via SIMCA Online, strengthening product quality and process control. Culture champion and people developer; initiated site-wide programs (DARE, Mums & Dads for Life) and led lean transformation through value stream mapping.

Country

City

Singapore

Industry

Biotechnology

Skill

GMP, Biotechnology, Biopharmaceuticals, Pharmaceutical Industry, Life Sciences, Technology Transfer, Corrective and Preventive Action (CAPA), Management, Fermentation, Downstream Processing, CAPA, Process Engineering, SOP, Validation

Experience

Senior Director, Head of Operations, Cell and Gene Therapy (CGT)

Lonza

2025-10 - Present · 1 yr

Singapore

• Oversee Singapore CGT Operations, directing the production of therapeutic cell therapy drug products and ensuring safe, compliant, and efficient manufacturing. • Responsible for key performance areas including safety, quality, compliance, delivery and financial execution.

Senior Director, Head of MSAT

Lonza

2022-5 - 2025-10 · 3 yrs 6 mos

Singapore

• Lead the MSAT function (>40 staffs) across Tech Transfer, Process Support, Data Science and Process Validation for mammalian manufacturing (20kL and 1kL/2kL). • Scaled MSAT delivery to >6 Tech Transfers and up to 4 PPQ/commercialization programs annually. • Implemented SIMCA Online and MVDA for real-time monitoring and early deviation detection. • Built a high-performing team and restructured capabilities to meet growing business demand. • As member of Site Leadership Team, drove cultural transformation via DARE job rotation program, Mums & Dads for Life, and lean workflow redesign.

Associate Director, MSAT

Lonza

2021-10 - 2022-5 · 8 mos

Singapore

• Oversaw MSAT operations for both large- (20kL) and small-scale (1kL/2kL) assets, ensuring end-to-end support for manufacturing, process improvement, tech transfer and commercialization.

Senior Department Manager, MSAT

Lonza

2018-5 - 2021-10 · 3 yrs 6 mos

Singapore

• Managed 13 staff (engineers and section managers); supported commercial production (20kL & 1kL) across upstream and downstream. • Led tech transfers into 20kL manufacturing and continuous support for licensed products.

MSAT Manager, Cell Therapy (ad interim)

Lonza

2019-11 - 2020-3 · 5 mos

Singapore

• Directed MSAT CGT team (7 engineers) for GMP support, tech transfer, pilot runs, and PAI readiness.

Associate Department Manager (MSAT Downstream)

Lonza

2016-5 - 2018-5 · 2 yrs 1 mo

Singapore

• Oversaw downstream tech transfer, process support, and startup of 2kL single-use facility. • Conducted BLA-supporting studies and proposed upgrades for high-titer readiness.

Section Manager (MSAT Downstream)

Lonza

2013-6 - 2016-5 · 3 yrs

Singapore

• Led technical support for 3 commercial 20kL processes; acted as SME during regulatory inspections. • Chaired Deviation/Change Control/Material Review Boards.