Fujifilm Cellular Dynamics, Inc., a developer and manufacturer of human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC), has appointed Delara Motlagh as its new Chief Operating Officer (COO), effective immediately.

In this role, Motlagh will drive the Company’s overall business and R&D strategy while leading operational execution for both domestic and international markets. Reporting directly to Chief Executive Officer, Tomoyuki Hasegawa, she will also drive the capabilities and expansion of Fujifilm Cellular Dynamics’ discovery research and cell therapy contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO) business units.

“We are excited to welcome ​​Delara, a leader within the cell and gene therapy (CGT) industry, to Fujifilm Cellular Dynamics,” commented Tomoyuki Hasegawa. “With her extensive experience in life sciences, strategic leadership, and deep CGT experience, she is well-positioned to advance our mission of delivering high-quality iPSC-based solutions to customers worldwide, as well as advance our cell therapy CDMO business.”

Experience

Motlagh brings over two decades of industry experience spanning leadership roles in business strategy, commercial operations, research and development and marketing. Previously, she held senior leadership positions at Catalent Pharma Solutions, Terumo Blood and Cell Technologies, and Baxter Healthcare.

“I am honored to join the Fujifilm Cellular Dynamics family at such an exciting time in the company’s growth,” said Motlagh. “Fujifilm Cellular Dynamics’ commitment to innovation and excellence in iPSC technology is truly inspiring, and I look forward to working with the talented team to expand CDMO capabilities and accelerate the development of transformative cell therapies.”

Motlagh holds a Ph.D. in Physiology and Biophysics along with a M.S. in Biology from the University of Illinois, Chicago. She also earned an Executive MBA from Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management and a B.S. in Biology from the University of Illinois, Champaign-Urbana.