MD: Global Biopharmaceutical Company Kite Expands in Frederick County, Adding 100 New Jobs

Kite , a global biopharmaceutical company, is adding 100 new jobs and expanding its cell therapy manufacturing operations in Frederick County.

A Gilead company, Kite is planning to construct a 70,000 square-foot warehouse adjacent to its current facility in the Urbana Corporate Center, which will help expand its global manufacturing network. The company originally announced its entry into Maryland back in 2019 , helping form the largest dedicated in-house cell therapy manufacturing network in the world. The company expects to employ more than 500 full-time staff between its two facilities by the end of 2026.

“Additionally, by locating these global operations in Maryland, we can serve both our European and California manufacturing operations in the same day,” said Chris McDonald, SVP & global head of technical operations. “With three major airports in the area, we have increased flexibility in receiving and shipping materials, which is critical for patients who are waiting for our therapies.”

“Kite’s cutting-edge work is changing the way cancer is treated. Adding to the company’s capabilities locally helps support their global manufacturing network, and the jobs they are creating here is great news for our economy," said Frederick County Executive Jessica Fitzwater.

To assist with project costs, the Maryland Department of Commerce has approved a $1.5 million conditional loan through the Advantage Maryland Fund. Also, Kite qualified for Frederick County’s Commercial and Industrial Tax Credit, which is phased in over 10 years. Additionally, the project is approved for Turbo Fast Track Permitting. The company is also eligible for various state tax credits, including the Job Creation Tax Credit and the More Jobs for Marylanders Tax Credit, which incentivizes manufacturers to create new jobs in the state.