Head, Drug Release Section

Apply Now; Doha; On-site; QAR 120,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

Apply Now in Doha seeks a senior Drug Release Manager to oversee the safe and compliant release of medicines imported into Qatar. You will lead the Drug Release Section, ensure adherence to Pharmacy Act 1983, and drive QA, testing, and regulatory compliance across the release process.

You will supervise staff, coordinate with regulatory affairs and QA, implement robust inspection protocols, and stay current with evolving regulations to safeguard public health and pharmaceutical integrity.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Pharmaceutical Sciences/Pharmacy required.
• Master’s degree in a related field preferred.
• License required for new hires per regulations.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership to the Drug Release Section team.
• Ensure compliance with national pharmaceutical regulations and guidelines.
• Oversee the release of all medicines imported to the State.
• Implement QA and inspection protocols for product release.
• Coordinate with regulatory affairs, manufacturing, and quality control.
• Conduct audits/inspections to ensure quality standards.
• Drive process optimization to improve turnaround times and efficiency.
• Collaborate with regulatory agencies and external stakeholders.
• Manage staff, mentor teams, and uphold safety and integrity.

Skills

Strategic leadership

Team management

Quality assurance

Regulatory compliance

Process optimization

Stakeholder engagement

Audits & inspections

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Pharmaceutical Sciences/Pharmacy

Master’s degree preferred

Job description

Job Summary The incumbent will play a pivotal role in overseeing the meticulous drug screening process, ensuring the safe, high-quality, and fully compliant release of medicines and pharmaceuticals imported into the State of Qatar. Operating in accordance with the stringent standards outlined in Pharmacy Act no. (3) of 1983, they will bear the crucial responsibility of validating the authenticity, efficacy, and regulatory adherence of pharmaceutical products. This multifaceted role demands unwavering dedication and precision to safeguard public health and uphold pharmaceutical integrity within the nation.

Key Roles and Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership and direction to the Drug Release Section team.
• Manage and mentor staff, fostering a culture of excellence, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• Ensure compliance with national pharmaceutical regulations, standards, and guidelines governing drug release processes.
• Oversee the release of all medicines and pharmaceuticals imported to the State, ensuring their validity, effectiveness, and compliance with regulatory laws and guidelines.
• Implement rigorous inspection protocols to verify the quality and safety of imported pharmaceutical products before their release for distribution.
• Confiscate any medicines found to be in violation of regulations, coordinating their destruction as per legal requirements.
• Stay abreast of changes in regulatory requirements and update procedures accordingly.
• Develop and implement robust quality assurance processes to guarantee the integrity, safety, and efficacy of released pharmaceutical products.
• Oversee the sending of samples of incoming medicines to the drug quality laboratory for analysis.
• Ensure that samples undergo comprehensive testing to verify their actual ingredients and compliance with regulatory laws before final release.
• Conduct regular audits and inspections to assess compliance with quality standards.
• Oversee the timely and accurate release of pharmaceutical products for distribution.
• Establish and maintain efficient release procedures while adhering to established protocols.
• Collaborate with competent authorities in the seizure of narcotic drugs that violate organizational laws and conditions.
• Ensure prompt and efficient handling of narcotic drug seizures in accordance with established procedures and legal requirements.
• Liaise with internal stakeholders, including regulatory affairs, manufacturing, and quality control departments, to ensure seamless coordination of drug release activities.
• Serve as a point of contact for external stakeholders, including pharmaceutical companies and regulatory agencies, regarding drug release matters.
• Identify opportunities for process optimization and efficiency enhancement within the Drug Release Section.
• Drive initiatives to improve productivity, reduce turnaround times, and enhance overall service quality.
• Perform other duties as requested to meet the ongoing organizational needs.

Essential Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Pharmaceutical Sciences/ Pharmacy from a recognized university. Master's in related field preferred. Required Certification/ Licensure: Subject to Healthcare Specialties Department regulations. License required for new hires effective Sept 2024

Essential Experience

Minimum 10 years’ experience in relevant role, out of which 4 years in Managerial or Supervisory capacity