A Look into Project Management: Colleague Spotlight on Darren Bird

In the CDMO & CRO industry, Project Coordinators play a pivotal part in ensuring that customer’s biopharmaceutical projects run smoothly across various departments and sites.

At Abzena’s Cambridge, UK facility, Darren Bird, fills this essential position with a unique blend of practical expertise and a hands-on approach.

An Unconventional Path to Biotech

Darren’s journey into the biotech industry has been anything but traditional. With a preference for sports over academics during his school years, he found his passion through an apprenticeship in electronics at Cambridge University. This hands-on experience equipped him with meticulous attention to detail and strong problem-solving skills—attributes that have proven invaluable in his current role.

He initially joined Abzena with the intention of it being a stopgap while searching for an engineering position. However, Darren quickly realized the potential for growth and the applicability of his skills within the industry as a project coordinator. His story is a testament to the value of transferable skills and the opportunities that can arise in the CRO & CDMO industry when stepping outside one’s comfort zone.

Behind the Scenes

As a Project Coordinator III, Darren’s day-to-day responsibilities primarily involve setting up projects in Abzena’s ERP system, Microsoft Project and AMICI. He plays a crucial role in supporting the Project Management Office and technical teams, ensuring that all project components are accurately established and aligned with the company’s objectives.

Effective communication is at the heart of Darren’s role. Interacting and coordinating with multiple departments, he understands the importance of how his work impacts others within the organization. His keen eye for detail means he often serves as the final checkpoint before documents are sent to customers highlighting his integral role in maintaining the high customer service standards Abzena is known for.

Life at the Cambridge Site

One of the aspects Darren appreciates most about working at Abzena is the vibrant social environment at the Cambridge site. The company fosters a strong sense of community through various activities such as football, tennis, quiz nights, bingo nights, and summer parties. Thanks to the encouraging atmosphere among colleagues, Darren has even rekindled his love for football after many years.

This balance of hard work and social engagement creates a dynamic workplace where employees can thrive professionally and personally. The camaraderie and team spirit not only enhance job satisfaction but also contribute to the company’s collaborative success.

Personal Pursuits and Passions

Outside of his professional life, Darren is a dedicated family man who is passionate about DIY projects. His philosophy of “not paying someone to do something he can do himself” reflects his proactive and resourceful nature. He enjoys attending comedy shows, live music events and discovering new pubs. Recently, his family welcomed a rescue dog into their home, adding to the joys of family life.

With four children, Darren values quality time with his family. His interests and commitment to family mirror the dedication and enthusiasm he brings to his role at Abzena.

Embracing New Opportunities

Darren’s experience highlights the growth potential when embracing new opportunities, even those outside one’s initial field of expertise. His advice to anyone considering a similar path is encouraging: don’t be afraid to leverage your transferable skills and give it a go. His journey demonstrates that with the right attitude and willingness to learn, transitioning into a new industry can lead to a rewarding and fulfilling career.

Join Our Team at Abzena

Interested in learning more about our project management opportunities? At Abzena, we recognize the value of diverse experiences and backgrounds to our team. If Darren’s journey inspires you and are interested in contributing to meaningful projects, we invite you to explore career opportunities with us.

Visit our Careers Portal to learn more about current openings.

Careers at Abzena