Delara Motlagh

About Delara Motlagh

GLOBAL COMMERCIAL LEADER | GENERAL MANAGERWith more than 18 years in various cross-functional roles in the biomedical and healthcare field, I bring a unique perspective and a deep understanding of the technical elements of the industry. I leverage my experience across R&D, operations, manufacturing, and marketing to bridge communication gaps, translate the diverse needs of these areas, and identify a path forward to ensure strategic alignment between these various functions.I am a strategic, critical, and system-level thinker with exceptional problem-solving skills. The common thread running through my career journey is successfully untangling complex problems. I see the big picture and the interdependencies that can comprise a single issue. This vision allows me to make accurate assessments and develop solutions that address root causes and interconnections for a clear roadmap, redefining the problem statement and repositioning the team where needed.Lauded as a natural leader, I am decisive, action-oriented, stimulating, and inspirational. I am serious in my approach to leadership and never shy away from making the tough decisions. I believe in the power of teams to deliver results. I set the vision, define the path forward, and inspire teams to take action, while coaching and guiding them along the way.I am personable and authentic in my communications. I tailor my style and messages to engage audiences that range from manufacturing employees to C-suite executives. Building trust with individuals and teams is a key component of my leadership style.Resourceful. Tenacious. Results-driven. I thrive in learning environments where I can partner with and inspire teams to make an impact together. I bring expertise in commercial strategy and product development for drugs, biologics, and medical devices. That expertise coupled with cell / gene therapy market knowledge puts me in a key position to make a difference in the lives of patients.

Experience

1. Chief Operating Officer

   FUJIFILM Cellular Dynamics, Inc

   Apr 2025 — Present

Education

• University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

  BS, Biology

• Northwestern University - Kellogg School of Management

  Executive MBA

• University of Illinois Chicago

  PhD, Physiology & Biophysics

• University of Illinois Chicago

  MS, Biological Sciences

Skills

• Healthcare
• Business Development
• Commercialization
• Cardiology
• Development of Strategic Marketing Plans
• Strategy
• Diabetes
• Regenerative Medicine
• Drug Development
• Biopharmaceuticals
• Medical Affairs
• Regulatory Submissions
• Leadership
• Clinical Trials
• Regulatory Affairs
• Lifesciences
• Technology Transfer
• R&D
• Market Development
• Oncology
• Infectious Diseases
• Clinical Development
• Neuroscience
• Medical Devices
• Clinical Research
• Creative Problem Solving
• Cross-Functional Team Leadership
• Marketing Strategy
• Critical Thinking
• Life Sciences
• Pharmaceutical Industry
• Fda
• Therapeutic Areas
• People Development
• Biotechnology
• Stem Cells
• Immunology
• Product Launch
• Brand Development