Head of R&D: API Innovation & Global Tech Transfer

Invenia; Groningen; On-site; EUR 150,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

Invenia in the Netherlands seeks a Head of R&D to lead the Drug Substance business unit's research strategy, bridging science, production and commercial aims. You will define the R&D roadmap, drive API development, and oversee technology transfer across sites to deliver scalable solutions.

You will coordinate cross-site R&D activities, ensure GMP/GDP compliance, mentor high-performing teams, and act as the technical lead in client discussions and proposals to secure new CDMO projects.

Qualifications

• PhD in Organic Chemistry or related field.
• Strong commercially driven, entrepreneurial, pragmatic and solution-oriented mindset.
• Experience in a CDMO environment is preferred.
• Affinity with the pharmaceutical industry, with solid knowledge of GMP and GDP guidelines.
• In-depth understanding of API manufacturing processes.
• Excellent communication abilities and customer orientation.
• Portfolio, Program & Project management in R&D environment (PMP or P30 preferred).
• Fluency in English, additional languages are a plus.

Responsibilities

• Drive innovation in API development and GMP production through integration of synthetic chemistry and chemical engineering — optimizing routes, process design, and scale-up for robustness, safety, and manufacturability.
• Coordinate R&D activities across multiple sites, ensuring consistent standards, communication, and project governance, ensuring delivery of projects within agreed deadlines and commitments.
• Act as the primary technical lead for the CDMO activities, both internally and in client discussions, supporting proposal development and project acquisition.
• Accountable for R&D portfolio, programs & project management discipline, leading all R&D initiatives from scoping to execution and delivery of milestones across the stage gate process.
• Define, implement, and monitor the R&D strategy aligned with Business Unit and Group objectives.
• Collaborate with Business Development, Operations, Quality, and Regulatory Affairs to secure seamless technology transfer. Build, inspire, mentor, and develop high-performing cross-site teams with a culture of accountability and innovation.
• Ensure GMP, SHE, and quality compliance across all projects and sites.
• Monitor market and scientific trends to identify new opportunities and steer innovation proposals.

Skills

Commercially driven mindset

Entrepreneurial mindset

Solution oriented

Communication skills

Customer orientation

Portfolio/Program/Project management

English fluent

Education

PhD in Organic Chemistry

Job description

Invenia in the Netherlands seeks a Head of R&D to lead the Drug Substance business unit's research strategy, bridging science, production and commercial aims. You will define the R&D roadmap, drive API development, and oversee technology transfer across sites to deliver scalable solutions.

You will coordinate cross-site R&D activities, ensure GMP/GDP compliance, mentor high-performing teams, and act as the technical lead in client discussions and proposals to secure new CDMO projects.