CE-700 pilot reported temporary loss of aircraft control during encounter with severe turbulence in cruise.

Narrative

We encountered severe turbulence at 45;000 feet en-rout from ZZZ to ZZZ1. We were following behind other traffic; about 75 miles in front of us; around thunderstorms; . No reports of turbulence in the area were made by other traffic in the area. We also inquire with ACT if there where turbulence reports; ATC said that no one had reported turbulence in the area for the past hour. The weather app also did not show any turbulence reports in the past two hours at FL450.After maneuvering around a thunderstorm cell; by about 15 miles to the upwind side; the aircraft pitched up about 20° and rolled to the left about 30° uncommanded while experiencing severe turbulence. The SIC; as the flying pilot; immediately took the controls and disconnected the autopilot. I simultaneously; as the pilot monitoring; contacted ATC requesting FL410. ATC cleared us to the requested altitude and the SIC started an immediate descent. Passing through FL440 the turbulence almost completely subsided. The seat-belt sign was on; all passengers and crew were seated. No passenger injuries or aircraft damage were noted during or after the flight.I feel that best way to avoid this situation in the future is to deviate further around the tops of thunderstorms; if fuel allows. If fuel becomes an issue; a fuel stop should be made.