Global Head

Krug Associates; Birmingham; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading pharmaceutical company in the UK is seeking a Global Head of Manufacturing Science and Technology to maintain technical excellence across external manufacturing partners. Key responsibilities include project management, scientific guidance, and leading teams in sterile manufacturing. The ideal candidate should possess a BSc/MSc/PhD in Chemistry or Biochemical Engineering and over 10 years of relevant experience. Exceptional communication and leadership skills are essential, along with the willingness for international travel.

Qualifications

• Over 10 years of experience in pharmaceutical or biotech manufacturing.
• Strong expertise in process development for various molecule types.
• Demonstrated expertise in sterile manufacturing and packaging operations.

Responsibilities

• Manage projects and deliver scientific guidance aligning with business objectives.
• Lead technical and scientific team in the pharmaceutical field.
• Champion continuous improvement and process optimisation initiatives.

Skills

Leadership

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Process development

GMP knowledge

Technical expertise

Education

BSc and MSc / PhD in Chemistry, Biochemical Engineering, or related field

Job description

Global Head of Manufacturing Science and Technology

Our client is a prominent international pharmaceutical company based in the UK seeking to appoint a Global Head of Manufacturing Science and Technology (MS&T). The role focuses on maintaining technical excellence and operational preparedness across the company’s external manufacturing partners.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Manage projects and deliver scientific guidance in line with the overall business objectives.
• Act as the primary subject matter expert supporting all MS&T initiatives.
• Offer recommendations to project teams to secure timely delivery and adherence to necessary scientific standards.
• Develop, maintain, and revise manufacturing process SOPs and related policies.
• Prepare and keep current detailed manufacturing process maps.
• Establish and implement advanced technology transfer frameworks and procedures, ensuring supporting documentation remains complete and up to date.
• Champion continuous improvement and process optimisation initiatives that increase yield, lower costs, and enhance product quality throughout the manufacturing lifecycle.
• Introduce and apply best-in-class project management tools across all initiatives, with regular reviews to maintain high standards.
• Monitor external developments and keep teams informed of significant technical and strategic changes that may influence manufacturing approaches.
• Lead and develop a team of technical and scientific specialists in the pharmaceutical field.

EDUCATION / EXPERIENCE

• BSc and MSc / PhD in Chemistry, Biochemical Engineering, or related field.
• More than 10 years’ experience in pharmaceutical or biotech manufacturing, with strong expertise in process development—ideally covering both small and large molecules.
• Demonstrated expertise in sterile manufacturing, fill-finish processes, and packaging operations.
• Solid knowledge of GMP and technical manufacturing, particularly in technology transfer.
• Thorough understanding of CMC requirements and regulatory submissions to agencies such as EMA and FDA.
• Inspiring leadership style combined with a practical, hands‑on approach to overseeing technical operations, complex projects, and cross‑functional teams.
• Outstanding analytical, scientific, and communication abilities, with skill in explaining complex ideas to varied audiences.
• Fluency in English.
• Willingness to undertake international travel as needed.