Precis Engineering + Architecture, an award-winning design firm with offices in Ambler, Pa., and Cary, N.C., has named two new directors in its Ambler, Pa., headquarters. The firm hired Jonathan Busam as Director – Process Engineering and promoted Van Zhao from Process Engineering Manager to Director – Process Technology.

Formerly a senior director of manufacturing, facilities maintenance, and engineering for DSM-Firmenich Biomedical, Busam brings two decades of client-side engineering and process optimization skills to his role.

“Jonathan’s ability to look holistically at processes and facilities will better inform the Precis design approach,” said Precis Principal – PA Operations Josh Capparella, PE, LEED AP BD+C. “We are excited to have his leadership and valued client perspective.”

“I am excited to collaborate with the current team, elevate process engineering, and drive innovative market solutions,” said Busam. “I look forward to leveraging our collective strengths both to enhance our existing client relationships and to unlock new opportunities to offer a competitive edge.”

Busam spent 20 years leading new product development and engineering across biomedical manufacturing and R&D environments. He has managed large-scale projects, led cross-functional teams, and implemented advanced technologies to enhance product offerings and streamline production. He brings this client-side global perspective to his role leading the Precis process engineering group and integrating process services with the rest of the firm’s engineering and architecture disciplines.

Busam holds a B.S. in Chemistry from Widener University and continued studies in polymer science and engineering at Lehigh University. He is a member of the American Chemical Society. Busam lives with his family in Kennett Square, Pa.

Zhao has nearly 20 years of consulting engineering experience. She joined Precis in 2023 and has provided technical leadership over the full spectrum of life sciences process engineering, from gene therapy and vaccine manufacturing to APIs and automation. In her new role, Zhao serves as a subject matter expert, providing process support for fill-finish technologies, potent compound isolators, CIP/SIP systems, flammable materials storage and distribution, and other complex issues. Her leadership ensures project alignment with standards and specifications and supports successful project execution.

“Engineering projects are long journeys, and lasting results come from strong partnerships,” said Zhao. “I believe in leading with integrity, building trust from day one, and working side-by-side with clients and teammates to reach the finish line together.”

“We value Van’s expertise and look forward to her continued technical leadership within the process engineering group,” added Capparella.

Zhao holds a B.S. in Chemical Engineering from Drexel University and is an active member of the International Society for Pharmaceutical Engineering (ISPE), American Society of Mechanical Engineers Bioprocessing Equipment Program (ASME BPE), and American Institute of Chemical Engineers (AIChe). She lives with her family in Conshohocken, Pa.

The roles strengthen Precis’ ability to deliver integrated engineering and architecture solutions that support the complex needs of pharmaceutical, biotechnology, life sciences, and mission-critical clients.