ALEXANDER DIFFLEY
Watkinsville
Summary
Dynamic Manufacturing Manager with a proven track record at Axitan, excelling in process optimization and team leadership. Expert in bioreactor operations and technical documentation, I spearheaded initiatives that enhanced production efficiency and safety compliance, driving significant improvements in workflow and quality assurance. Committed to fostering a culture of continuous improvement. Result-driven Manufacturing Manager with broad experience in overseeing production processes, ensuring cost-effectiveness and quality compliance. Strengths include strong leadership skills, effective communication, and ability to troubleshoot manufacturing issues swiftly. Proven record of implementing innovative solutions that enhance operational efficiency and improve bottom-line profitability.
Overview
25
25
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Manufacturing Manager
Axitan
Comer
04.2023 - Current
- Managed daily and weekly production schedules to optimize workflow and reduce downtime.
- Led process development initiatives and created new formulations to support product innovation and scalability.
- Implemented design improvements to eliminate contamination and improve process efficiency.
- Trained team members on equipment operation, process control, and maintenance procedures.
- Led production planning and scheduling to optimize workflow efficiency.
- Managed team performance and provided coaching to enhance skills.
- Implemented safety protocols to maintain a secure work environment.
- Coordinated equipment maintenance and repairs to reduce downtime.
- Maintained accurate records of all activities related to manufacturing operations.
- Established and maintained quality control standards throughout the manufacturing process.
Senior Bioprocessing Specialist
RWDC Industries
Watkinsville
01.2019 - 01.2023
- Led daily fermentation activities for high-value microbial product manufacturing.
- Supervised and trained a 10-person team for commercial-scale PHA production.
- Developed SOPs, batch records, and QA protocols; ensured timely and accurate documentation.
- Spearheaded safety culture and real-time data acquisition systems.
- Collaborated across departments (engineering, QA, and downstream) to optimize performance and resolve technical issues.
- Commissioned new bioreactors, and supported HMI and control system development.
- Initiated root cause analysis and implemented corrective/preventive actions for process issues.
Product Development Specialist
Affinity Energy & Health
Cumming
01.2016 - 01.2019
- Increased DHA production via aerobic fermentation of marine microalgae.
- Eliminated contamination via targeted process redesigns.
- Designed and led the sanitary packaging process for products.
- Trained technicians, maintained compliance, and led USDA certification processes.
- Presented ideas at internal meetings regarding possible updates or enhancements to existing products.
- Provided technical support during the production process to ensure quality control measures were met.
Scientist / Production Manager
Sapphire Energy
San Diego
01.2008 - 01.2016
- Directed upstream and downstream fermentation process development for microalgae in open ponds and bioreactors.
- Built and scaled R&D systems and processes for biomass production.
- Developed SOPs, performed documentation reviews, and ensured compliance across departments.
- Reduced operational incidents through quarterly safety and EHS initiatives.
- Trained cross-functional teams and improved team performance through mentoring and evaluations.
Production Manager
Fuji Chemical
Maui
01.2001 - 01.2008
- Managed a 15-person team producing food-grade astaxanthin using microalgae.
- Oversaw QA/QC, field activities, documentation, and regulatory compliance.
- Led procurement, safety training, and performance evaluations.
Education
B.S. - Biology, Cum Laude
Southampton College
NYSkills
- Commercial Fermentation & Aseptic Operations
- Team Leadership & Staff Training
- GMP, HACCP, EHS, and Safety Compliance
- Technical Documentation & Root Cause Analysis
- Bioreactor Operations & Troubleshooting
- Process Optimization & Data Analysis
- Scheduling & Production Planning
- Process optimization
- Production scheduling
- Quality assurance
- SOP development
- Engineering/project management experience
- Certified forklift operator
- Process improvement
- Production planning
Certification
- OSHA, DOT, Hazmat Safety
- Safe Start Instructor
- First Aid / CPR / AED Certified
- ECP, MOC, JSA, LOTO Trained
- Microsoft Office Suite & Database Proficiency
Timeline
Manufacturing Manager
Axitan
04.2023 - Current
Senior Bioprocessing Specialist
RWDC Industries
01.2019 - 01.2023
Product Development Specialist
Affinity Energy & Health
01.2016 - 01.2019
Scientist / Production Manager
Sapphire Energy
01.2008 - 01.2016
Production Manager
Fuji Chemical
01.2001 - 01.2008
B.S. - Biology, Cum Laude
Southampton College
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