Pharma Manufacturing Automation & MES Lead

Team Horizon; Cork; On-site; EUR 85,000 - 105,000; Full time

Job summary

Team Horizon is seeking a Site Automation Manager for a client in Cork. You will lead the Automation and MES team, delivering maximum availability and performance of automation/MES solutions while driving a culture of continuous improvement and people development.

Responsibilities include overseeing design and lifecycle management of automation projects, driving digital transformation, and mentoring a high-performing team.

Qualifications

• Degree (Level 8) in Automation, Electronic Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Minimum 10 years of technical experience in the Pharmaceutical industry, focused on automation and MES systems.
• At least 5 years of proven project and people management experience, with a strong track record of talent development and results delivery.
• Fluent English, both written and oral.

Responsibilities

• Deliver maximum availability and performance of automation and MES solutions, using proactive/predictive maintenance to minimize downtime.
• Oversee design, implementation, and full lifecycle management of automation/MES projects, ensuring efficient and cost-effective manufacturing aligned with business priorities.
• Drive digital transformation and paperless manufacturing initiatives leveraging expert technical skills.
• Lead, coach, and develop a high-performing team; provide mentoring, feedback, performance reviews, and clear objectives.
• Foster a collaborative and inclusive team culture focused on learning, accountability, and knowledge sharing.
• Champion process enhancements and embed automation best practices for continuous improvement.
• Recognize and reward innovation; lead and support change management initiatives as technologies and business needs evolve.
• Build strong, trust-based relationships with cross-functional stakeholders, aligning automation strategy with business needs.
• Maintain the highest standards in communication, customer focus, and stakeholder engagement internally and externally.
• Ensure compliance with cGMP, SOPs, data integrity and security, and Health, Safety & Environmental regulations.
• Promote an EHS&E culture, set ISO and company standards, and always demonstrate a ‘Right First Time’ ethos.

Skills

Automation

MES systems

Leadership

Project management

People development

Digital transformation

Communication

Change management

Education

Engineering degree (Automation/Electronic)

Job description

Team Horizon is seeking a Site Automation Manager for a client in Cork. You will lead the Automation and MES team, delivering maximum availability and performance of automation/MES solutions while driving a culture of continuous improvement and people development.

Responsibilities include overseeing design and lifecycle management of automation projects, driving digital transformation, and mentoring a high-performing team.