About the Company
Our client is a leading Contract Development and Manufacturing Organization (CDMO) specialising in drug substance (API) development and manufacturing. With a reputation for scientific excellence, operational reliability, and long-term client partnerships, they deliver high-quality, scalable solutions that advance therapies from clinical to commercial stages.
The Opportunity
We are seeking an exceptional Site Director / General Manager to lead a key manufacturing site of approximately 200 employees, encompassing multiple production units and technical functions. This is a pivotal leadership role responsible for setting the site’s strategic direction, ensuring operational excellence, and driving business growth in alignment with corporate objectives.
Key Responsibilities
* Strategic Leadership: Define and execute the site strategy in alignment with global business goals, ensuring sustainable growth, operational excellence, and client satisfaction.
* Operational Management: Oversee all aspects of manufacturing, supply chain, technical operations, and quality, ensuring safe, efficient, and compliant delivery of products.
* EHS & Compliance: Champion a strong safety culture and ensure full adherence to EHS, GMP, and regulatory standards.
* P&L Ownership: Manage the full site P&L, driving cost efficiency, productivity improvements, and margin enhancement.
* People Leadership: Inspire, develop, and empower a diverse workforce, fostering a culture of engagement, collaboration, and accountability across functions.
* Continuous Improvement: Lead initiatives in Lean, digital transformation, and process optimisation to enhance reliability, flexibility, and customer satisfaction.
* Business Development: Partner with commercial teams to support client relationships, new project onboarding, and business expansion opportunities.
* Stakeholder Engagement: Serve as the primary representative of the site to internal leadership, customers, and regulatory authorities.
Candidate Profile
* Proven experience in a senior operational leadership role within a pharmaceutical CDMO or API manufacturing environment.
* Strong technical understanding of drug substance processes, GMP operations, and regulatory expectations.
* Demonstrated ability to lead large teams (>150 people) across multiple disciplines.
* Track record of strategic execution, financial acumen, and continuous improvement.
* Strong leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
* Degree in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or related field; MBA or advanced degree desirable.
Why Join
* Lead a major manufacturing site at the forefront of API innovation.
* Shape the strategic direction of a growing, global CDMO.
* Be part of an organization that values science, people, and long-term partnerships.