Leen Spooren recently stepped into the role of Operations Manager at Zeopore. She takes on a new role alongside Henk Janssen, who had coordinated the realization of the semi-industrial production facility over the past two years. Leen Spooren: “I will focus on the transition toward a fully autonomous production unit with dedicated operators, economically producing industrial-scale volumes of mesoporous zeolites. I look forward to rub shoulders with Henk and learn from his extensive experience during this transition.” Leen holds a master’s degree in biochemistry and biotechnology and her previous work experiences in pharma and biotech are helpful in her new role.
Leen earned her stripes in pharma and biotech
“My first work experience as a process engineer was at JSR Micro in Leuven. Here I took part in scaling up protein A production with modified bacteria within the Life Science division. The transition from pilot to full-scale production was similar in volume to what we’re doing at Zeopore. A bit later at Pfizer, I became an interim project lead in a technology transfer of an automatic syringe filling line where I was involved in a number of root cause investigations.
At Biocartis, I first led a process validation transfer project from manual production to semi-automatic production before shifting my focus to supporting the daily production on the semi-automated production line, including planning, SOPs, non-conformities, (planned) deviations, change requests, training of operators, etc. This brings me to my previous professional role at miDiagnostics, a start-up where I adapted flexibly to changing strategies. Here I was involved in both process development and production via CMOs.
Taking production operations to the next level
Leen already had some knowledge of zeolites, having observed her roommate working on a PhD focused on the topic. “Initially at Zeopore, I’m learning more about zeolites and their specific aspects to understand the associated processes. Along the way, I provide input on how certain aspects could be made safer and more consistent through feasible adjustments.”
After the introductory period, Leen will focus on professionalizing organizational procedures and planning. “Our goal is to implement enhancements on multiple fronts to maximize safety, quality, and efficiency, while ensuring smooth technology transfer and thorough training and supervision of operators. In parallel, we need our supply chain to naturally blend with consumables storage and product shipment. We aim to scale production volumes to reach up to 40 tons by 2025, serving industrial testing for at least three customers or applications.”
Enthusiastically leading this transformation journey
“I’m excited to join the Zeopore team and take on the challenge of transforming production to a smooth, structured and systemic operation. Guiding this process alongside Henk Janssen is something I'm truly passionate about. I enjoy optimizing processes and contributing knowledge and experience. Supporting this transition allows us to empower each other, both individually and as a team. I find it incredibly rewarding to help each other and work together towards our shared goals.”
Much like in my professional activities, I am primarily a social person. I enjoy being around people in a wide variety of settings. I love participating in group activities, such as sports and leisure pursuits, volunteering in the music world, and traveling to various countries.
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