Upstream Manufacturing Lead, Associate Director

WuXi Biologics; Dundalk; On-site; EUR 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

WuXi Biologics Ireland seeks an Upstream Lead - Associate Director to steer the Upstream Manufacturing organization, drive talent development, and ensure safe, compliant routine manufacturing execution at Dundalk. You will partner with Tech Ops and MSAT to enable efficient tech transfers and process validation.

Reporting to Manufacturing Lead - MFG 6/7, you will manage a cross-functional team, lead strategic planning, ensure GMP compliance, and champion continuous improvement across SOPs, MBRs,

Qualifications

• BSc, MSc or PhD in Chemical Engineering, Bioscience, or Biotechnology required.
• Qualification / Training in People Leadership is highly advantageous.
• Prior 3-5 years of Upstream manufacturing experience in biopharma/vaccine.

Responsibilities

• Lead manufacturing leadership efforts for WuXi Biologics Ireland, shaping strategy and cross-functional execution.
• Support Manufacturing and global strategy alignment, ensuring compliance and performance.
• Manage a team of Shift Leads, Specialists, and Bioprocess associates for commercial-scale operations.
• Collaborate on tech transfer and process validation with Tech Ops and MSAT.
• Ensure GMP compliance, manage deviations and CAPAs, and support audits.
• Deliver staff training to maintain safe, compliant operations.
• Develop talent, recruit, and build a high-performing Upstream team.
• Drive continuous improvement of SOPs, MBRs, and OJT documentation.
• Lead operational excellence initiatives using PSP, SW, and Kaizen.
• Communicate status to senior management with appropriate detail.
• Coordinate work across Upstream and other functions to meet objectives.
• Perform duties per GMP, SOPs, and controlled documents; take on extra tasks as needed.

Skills

People leadership

Financial acumen

Communication skills

Strategic planning

Problem solving

Team leadership

Education

BSc/MSc/PhD in Chemical Engineering | Bioscience | Biotechnology

People leadership training

Job description

WuXi Biologics Ireland seeks an Upstream Lead - Associate Director to steer the Upstream Manufacturing organization, drive talent development, and ensure safe, compliant routine manufacturing execution at Dundalk. You will partner with Tech Ops and MSAT to enable efficient tech transfers and process validation.

Reporting to Manufacturing Lead - MFG 6/7, you will manage a cross-functional team, lead strategic planning, ensure GMP compliance, and champion continuous improvement across SOPs, MBRs,