Head of QA and Compliance

Transpharmation Ltd.; Fergus; On-site; CAD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading preclinical Contract Research Organization in Ontario is seeking a Head of QA and Compliance. This role focuses on operational excellence and compliance within a collaborative atmosphere. The ideal candidate will have over 5 years of experience in operational leadership in a CRO or similar field, with strong leadership and problem-solving skills. The position requires on-site presence at least 3 days a week.

Benefits

Competitive wages

Benefits package

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of experience in operational leadership.
• Strong leadership and organizational skills.
• Familiarity with regulatory frameworks in preclinical research.

Responsibilities

• Develop and monitor SOPs to optimize quality.
• Collaborate with teams to align operational goals.
• Manage resource planning and budgeting.

Skills

Leadership

Organizational skills

Interpersonal skills

Problem-solving

Decision-making

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Life Sciences or related field

Job description

Overview

Transpharmation is a dynamic preclinical contract research organization that specializes in high-quality, translational drug discovery services. The company provides a friendly and team-oriented work atmosphere as well as competitive wages and benefits.

Transpharmation, a leading preclinical Contract Research Organization (CRO) specializing in translational neuroscience, is seeking a dynamic and experienced Head of QA and Compliance to support and enhance operational excellence at our Fergus, Ontario site. Reporting directly to the Director of Operations, this role will ensure the smooth execution of daily activities, drive continuous improvement, and uphold the highest standards of scientific and regulatory compliance.

Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and monitor SOPs and operational workflows to optimize productivity and quality.
• Collaborate with scientific, quality assurance, and business development teams to align operational goals with company strategy.
• Manage resource planning, including staffing, equipment, and facility needs.
• Assist in budget preparation, cost control, and financial forecasting.
• Ensure compliance with GLP, AAALAC, and other relevant regulatory and ethical standards.
• Liaison with CCAC and OMAFRA.
• Identify operational risks and implement mitigation strategies.
• Contribute to strategic planning and support the execution of growth initiatives.
• Promote cooperation within own team as well as between groups and with other departments.
• Point of contact for BA sub-contractor activities.
• Facilitate internal and external audits.
• Provide training to staff as required.
• Other duties as assigned.

Interfacing and On-site Presence

This position requires the individual to serve as an important interface between internal departments, as well as external groups. The Head of QA and Compliance will be required on site a minimum of 3 days per week in coordination with the Director of Operations, with one day overlapping so all parties are on site together.

Communication

Communications are with all departments and employees within the organization as well as with external companies. Verbal communication is required to request and receive instructions for work, report on activities, results, problems, and to participate in planning and scheduling of work and equipment use. Written communication is required for accurate and detailed recording of procedures, reporting, and completing documentation. Reading and comprehension of written protocols and manuals is essential.

Working Conditions

Environment
Generally working indoors. Occasional periods of several hours per day exposed to noxious odours from diagnostic materials and/or samples. There will also be the occasional need to work with chemicals and/or biohazards in a controlled environment.

Risk to Health
There will be occasional exposure to small quantities of toxic irritant or corrosive chemicals as well as exposure to freezers (-80C) and liquid nitrogen (-200C) while storing, retrieving, shipping, and receiving materials. There will be exposure to zoonotic diseases. There will also be repetitive physical activities. There will be occasional periods of several hours per day performing physically repetitive procedures (typing, etc.). There is also a potential for digital eye strain resulting from prolonged computer use.

Physical Requirements

Physical Demands
The demands of this position include: standing, bending, twisting, lifting, carrying liquid containers, carrying boxes weighing up to 20 kg and daily periods of keyboarding.

Qualifications

• Educational background
• Bachelor’s degree in Life Sciences, Business Administration Operations Management, or a related field.
• Experience
• Minimum 5 years of experience in operational leadership, preferably within a CRO or pharmaceutical/biotech environment.
• Strong leadership, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
• Proven ability to manage cross-functional teams and complex projects.
• Excellent problem-solving and decision-making capabilities.
• Familiarity with regulatory frameworks relevant to preclinical research.
• Experience with Lean, Six Sigma, or other process improvement methodologies.
• Knowledge of neuroscience or translational research models.