Head of Quality (HOQ)

SLS Services Limited; Birmingham; On-site; GBP 65,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

A specialized pharmaceutical company is seeking a Head of Quality (HOQ) in Birmingham. The role involves leading the Quality agenda, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards, and mentoring a skilled QA/QC team. Ideal candidates will have over 5 years of experience in pharma manufacturing, particularly in Specials, and possess a degree in Pharmacy or relevant fields. The position offers significant influence and career growth within the organization.

Benefits

Career growth opportunities

Strategic impact in quality setting

Qualifications

• 5+ years’ experience in pharma manufacturing, particularly in Specials.
• History of leading inspections and managing licenses.
• Eligibility for Manufacturer’s “Specials” Licence.

Responsibilities

• Lead the Quality agenda and maintain the site's QMS.
• Ensure compliance with GMP/GDP standards and MHRA licenses.
• Chair Quality Councils and present KPIs to senior leadership.

Skills

Leadership

Regulatory compliance

Operational excellence

Quality management systems

Education

Degree in Pharmacy or Pharmaceutical Sciences

Job description

Overview

We’re seeking an experienced Quality professional to take the lead at a UK site specialising in Specials (unlicensed medicines) as the Head of Quality (HOQ). This is a high-impact role where you’ll set the quality agenda, shape strategy at board level, and ensure the highest standards of compliance and patient safety.

What you’ll be doing

• Lead the Quality agenda: Own the site’s QMS and quality policy, keeping it independent, robust, and inspection-ready.
• Safeguard compliance: Ensure the site meets GMP/GDP standards, maintains MHRA licences, and is always prepared for regulatory scrutiny.
• Drive operational excellence: Oversee audits, CAPAs, supplier qualification, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Build and inspire: Lead and mentor a skilled QA/QC team, fostering a Right First Time culture and preparing future leaders.
• Work at the top table: Chair Quality Councils, present KPIs to senior leadership, and act as a trusted voice at board level.
• Be the regulatory interface: Engage directly with inspectors, customers, and partners, ensuring data integrity and patient safety are never compromised.

What you’ll bring

• A degree in Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or related field (MSc/PhD a plus).
• Eligibility to be named on a Manufacturer’s “Specials” Licence (QP status highly desirable).
• 5+ years’ experience in pharma manufacturing — with proven exposure to Specials or other complex, regulated environments.
• A track record of leading inspections, managing licences, and delivering operational compliance.
• Strong leadership skills, with the confidence to influence at every level — from regulators to the boardroom.

What’s in it for you?

• Strategic impact: Shape the future of a licensed site and set the benchmark for quality in Specials manufacturing.
• Leadership visibility: Work directly with senior leadership and regulators in a high-profile role.
• Career growth: Build your leadership profile while mentoring and developing a high-performing team.
• Patient focus: Play a central role in delivering safe, compliant medicines where they’re needed most.