Controls and Automation Manager

Dechra Limited; City of Westminster; Hybrid; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A global leader in veterinary pharmaceuticals is looking for a Controls and Automation Manager based in the UK. The role requires overseeing the design and maintenance of automated systems in pharmaceutical manufacturing while ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. The ideal candidate will have over 5 years of experience in automation management and knowledge of control systems. The position fosters a culture of continuous improvement and provides opportunities for team collaboration and innovation, along with generous benefits including 33 days annual leave, life assurance, and a discretionary bonus.

Benefits

33 days annual leave

Employee Assistance Programme

Life Assurance

Enhanced Family Leave

Bonus (discretionary)

Car or car allowance (discretionary)

Discounted pet food

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years in automation/controls management within a regulated manufacturing environment.
• Experience with automated systems in pharmaceutical manufacturing, including process control, packaging and laboratory automation.
• Familiarity with pharmaceutical regulatory requirements (e.g. FDA, cGMP).

Responsibilities

• Lead the implementation and maintenance of automation and control systems.
• Manage and mentor a team of controls engineers and automation technicians.
• Create and manage project timelines, resources and budgets.

Skills

PLC

SCADA

DCS

HMI

Automation software (Siemens, Allen Bradley, Rockwell)

Analytical and troubleshooting skills

Communication

Job description

If you want to be part of a team that invests in your future and ensures you have the support to reach your full potential and thrive, please read on.

The Opportunity

The Controls and Automation Manager is responsible for overseeing the design, development, and maintenance of automated systems and control processes across manufacturing operations. This role ensures compliance with regulatory standards, optimises production efficiency, and guarantees the safe, reliable, and effective operation of automated systems used in pharmaceutical manufacturing. As a key leader in the engineering team, the Controls and Automation Manager will collaborate with cross‑functional teams, including production, quality assurance, IT and compliance, to drive continuous improvement in automation technologies while ensuring alignment with industry best practices and regulatory requirements (such as cGMP, FDA and EMA standards).

Responsibilities

• Lead the implementation and maintenance of automation and control systems in manufacturing environments.
• Oversee the integration of new automation systems and upgrades to existing systems, ensuring minimum downtime during transitions.
• Manage and mentor a team of controls engineers, automation technicians and other relevant staff. Collaborate with other departments (production, quality, engineering, IT, etc.) to resolve automation‑related challenges and drive process optimisation.
• Foster a culture of continuous improvement and innovation, encouraging staff development and knowledge sharing.
• Create and manage project timelines, resources and budgets, ensuring adherence to internal and external timelines.
• Develop risk assessments and mitigate potential issues associated with new automation initiatives.
• Design, develop and optimise control systems (PLC, SCADA, DCS, etc.) for various pharmaceutical manufacturing processes.
• Evaluate and implement new technologies to improve system performance, energy efficiency and safety.
• Conduct troubleshooting and root‑cause analysis for automation‑related issues, ensuring minimal impact on production.
• Participate in regulatory inspections and audits, providing technical support and ensuring adherence to compliance standards.
• Prepare and review documentation related to automation systems, including SOPs, protocols and reports.
• Promote a culture of safety by ensuring that all automation systems are designed and maintained to meet safety standards and risk management guidelines.
• Develop and enforce safe working practices related to automation equipment and control systems.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years in automation/controls management within a regulated manufacturing environment, ideally within the pharmaceutical, biotech or life sciences industries.
• Strong knowledge of PLC, SCADA, DCS, HMI and other control systems.
• Experience with automated systems in pharmaceutical manufacturing, including process control, packaging and laboratory automation.
• Familiarity with pharmaceutical regulatory requirements (e.g. FDA, cGMP).
• Proven experience leading cross‑functional teams and managing complex projects from concept to implementation.
• Proficient in automation software (e.g. Siemens, Allen Bradley, Rockwell) and strong understanding of industrial networking protocols.
• Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills for diagnosing and resolving complex technical issues in control and automation systems.
• Strong communication and ability to work with multiple teams.

Benefits

• 33 days annual leave (inclusive of Bank Holidays)
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Life Assurance
• Enhanced Family Leave
• Bonus (discretionary)
• Car or car allowance (discretionary)
• Discounted pet food

Other Information

Occasional global travel may be required. This role is based in the UK/remote.

About the Company

Dechra is a growing, global specialist in veterinary pharmaceuticals. Our expertise is in the development, manufacture, marketing and sales of high‑quality products exclusively for veterinarians worldwide. All applications received are reviewed by our internal talent acquisition team and we will get in touch if your skills and experience match what we’re looking for. We value diversity within our global workforce and encourage an inclusive culture. Seniority level: Senior.