Drug Product Technical Manager

AbbVie; Sligo; On-site; EUR 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

AbbVie is seeking a Drug Product Technical Manager in Sligo to lead the process engineering and chemistry group supporting drug product operations. The role involves managing a team, overseeing complex processes, and driving continuous improvement across multiple products.

The ideal candidate will have a Bachelor's degree in a relevant field and over 5 years of experience in a GMP environment. Strong leadership and problem-solving skills are essential for this position.

AbbVie is committed to diversity, innovation, and community service.

Qualifications

• 5+ years’ experience in process chemistry or process engineering within a GMP pharmaceutical environment.
• Experience managing direct reports.
• Innovative thinker with a track record of proposing solutions.

Responsibilities

• Manage a team of 3–6 direct reports.
• Provide cross‑training, mentoring, and guidance to team members.
• Identify, prioritise, and manage continuous improvement projects.

Skills

Leadership

Process engineering

Problem-solving

Communication

Education

Bachelor’s degree in a relevant science or technical discipline

Job description

Job Description

We are looking for a Drug Product Technical Manager to join our Technical Operations Team at our API Manufacturing site in Manor Hamilton Road, Sligo. The successful candidate will lead the process engineering and process chemistry group supporting drug product (DP) operations across approximately 4–6 products and new product introductions (NPIs).

This role provides technical expertise in chemistry and chemical engineering, alongside program management support for commercial DP manufacturing and site-wide NPI delivery. The position also plays a key role in monitoring processes and identifying opportunities to improve yield, reduce cycle times, and lower standard product costs through continuous improvement.

Responsibilities

• Manage a team of 3–6 direct reports.
• Set annual goals, complete reviews, and own growth plans and performance management.
• Provide cross‑training, mentoring, and guidance to team members.
• Operate with significant autonomy while aligning with the Technical Operations Manager.
• Own technical accountability for 4–6 commercial and NPI products involved in large‑scale drug product manufacture.
• Provide support for highly complex processes, including chemistry, engineering, and solid oral dose technical requirements.
• Lead all new process and validation activities from project start‑up through process qualification.
• Identify, prioritise, and manage continuous improvement projects; coach technical support engineers and chemists; and coordinate with cross‑functional teams.
• Prepare process fits, feasibility studies, development work, and operating budgets for future product introductions.
• Plan and lead technical transfers for future product introductions.
• Support departmental budgeting as delegated by the Manufacturing Manager.
• Manage medium‑scale capital projects.
• Support site strategy and work with internal and external stakeholders to influence product development and transfer.
• Promote AbbVie culture within the team and across the department.
• Adhere to all EHS & E standards, procedures, and policies.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant science or technical discipline.
• People leadership experience with experience managing direct reports.
• 5+ years’ experience in process chemistry or process engineering within a GMP pharmaceutical environment.
• 3–5+ years’ experience supporting start‑ups and/or new product introductions in pharmaceutical facilities.
• Experience in batch processing, technical transfers, commissioning, and validation.
• Strong problem‑solving skills under pressure, with the ability to assess multiple solutions.
• Innovative thinker with a track record of proposing, demonstrating, and implementing new solutions.
• High attention to detail, strong compliance mindset, and a results‑driven approach.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skill.

Additional Information

AbbVie is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to operating with integrity, driving innovation, transforming lives and serving our community. Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled.

US & Puerto Rico only – to learn more, visit https://www.abbvie.com/join-us/equal-employment-opportunity-employer.html

US & Puerto Rico applicants seeking a reasonable accommodation, click here to learn more: https://www.abbvie.com/join-us/reasonable-accommodations.html