Global Head

Krug Associates; Southampton; On-site; GBP 100,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading international pharmaceutical company in the UK is seeking a Global Head of Manufacturing Science and Technology. This senior role involves managing scientific guidance, ensuring operational excellence with external manufacturers, and leading technical teams. The ideal candidate requires over 10 years in pharmaceutical manufacturing expertise, combined with a strong educational background in Chemistry or Biochemical Engineering. The position demands excellent leadership and analytical skills, along with a commitment to continuous improvement across manufacturing processes.

Qualifications

• More than 10 years’ experience in pharmaceutical or biotech manufacturing.
• Expertise in sterile manufacturing, fill-finish processes, and packaging operations.
• Thorough understanding of CMC requirements and regulatory submissions.

Responsibilities

• Manage projects and deliver scientific guidance.
• Act as the primary subject matter expert supporting all MS&T initiatives.
• Champion continuous improvement and process optimisation initiatives.

Skills

Leadership

Analytical skills

Communication

Project management

Process development

Knowledge of GMP

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.