Possessing nearly two decades of prowess in biochemical and chemical engineering, Heather D. Embree, MS, a leader in her field, is vice president of research and development strategic operations at Zai Lab, where she oversees strategy, budgeting, and program management. At the California-based lab, Ms. Embree ensures the alignment of clinical development plans with timelines and regulatory submissions, utilizing her skills in management, drug development, and strategic planning.
Prior to her tenure at Zai Lab, Ms. Embree held several key positions at Allogene Therapeutics from 2018 to 2023. She began as senior director of program management before advancing to executive director and eventually vice president of program management and head of portfolio management. During this period, she played a pivotal role in steering the company’s portfolio management strategies, contributing significantly to its growth and success.
Ms. Embree previously held notable positions at Lentigen Technology Inc., a Miltenyi Biotec Company, from 2007 to 2018. Starting as quality assurance and compliance manager, she advanced through roles including interim director of quality and director of operations. During her time there, she was pivotal in expanding the company’s business in cell therapy products, contributing to the submission of 13 investigational new drug applications and the development of a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility. Earlier in her career, Ms. Embree gained invaluable experience as a quality assurance specialist II at Lonza and as a research assistant at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County. She began her professional journey with six years of research in the pulp and paper industry at MeadWestvaco, now WestRock.
Educationally, Ms. Embree’s formidable background includes earning both a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Science in chemical and biochemical engineering from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County. She continues to stay abreast of developments in the field, dedicating her time as chief of the American Society of Gene & Cell Therapy since 2023, advocating for the use of gene and cell therapies to treat disease.
Recalling the origins of her journey, Ms. Embree’s passion for engineering was ignited by a high school chemistry teacher who recognized her exceptional problem-solving abilities. Since then, her career has been defined by resilience and determination as well as having to navigate the challenges of being one of the few women in her engineering classes and operating in a mostly male field. Ms. Embree began her career with six years of research in the pulp and paper industry but transitioned to the biotech sector after starting a family, seeking greater fulfillment. Her biotech experience started in quality assurance, where she utilized her technical expertise to analyze manufacturing batch failures and address root causes. After five years, she moved into program management and commercial operations at Lentigen. She takes great pride in her instrumental role in advancing Lentigen’s cell therapy business, with her efforts facilitating the company’s acquisition, expansion, and position as a major player in the industry.
Peering into the future, Ms. Embree plans to serve on corporate boards, contributing to strategic direction while stepping away from daily operations, and is considering patient advocacy work. Grateful to be part of a company developing life-changing treatments for oncologic and autoimmune diseases, she remains committed to making meaningful contributions that extend beyond her professional responsibilities.
Ms. Embree has found added fulfillment in being a mentor to rising and aspiring professionals throughout her career. She values the meaningful connections she has built with many mentees who return years later to thank her for the lessons she imparted and the lasting impact she has had on their lives. Born in Baltimore, Maryland, Ms. Embree is married to Mark Leonard, and the couple has three children.