Pharmaceutical Project Manager - Drug Development Lifecycle

Placements24; Johannesburg; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Performance incentives

Generous leave provisions

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a highly organized Pharmaceutical Project Manager to lead end-to-end development projects from discovery through regulatory submission and market launch. The role requires managing cross-functional teams, budgets, timelines, and resources within a hybrid Randburg, Gauteng setup.

The ideal candidate has 6–8 years in pharma/biotech project management, strong knowledge of drug development processes, and solid leadership and negotiation skills. Master’s or MBA is preferred.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Pharmacy, Science, Engineering, or related field; Master's degree or MBA preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage multiple pharmaceutical development projects concurrently, ensuring alignment with strategic objectives.
• Develop comprehensive project plans, including scope, timelines, budgets, resource allocation, and risk management strategies.
• Coordinate and facilitate cross-functional project teams, fostering effective communication and collaboration among members.
• Monitor project progress, identify potential risks and issues, and implement proactive solutions to keep projects on track.
• Manage project budgets, track expenditures, and ensure efficient resource utilization.
• Prepare and present regular project status reports to senior management and stakeholders.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements (ICH, GCP, GMP) throughout the project lifecycle.
• Oversee documentation and archiving of project-related information.
• Contribute to continuous improvement of project management methodologies and processes.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Interpersonal skills

Negotiation

Education

Bachelor's degree in Pharmacy, Science, Engineering, or related field

Master's degree or MBA preferred

Tools

MS Project

Asana

Jira

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading biopharmaceutical company recognized for its commitment to innovation and patient care, is seeking a highly organized and experienced Pharmaceutical Project Manager . This role is instrumental in overseeing the end-to-end lifecycle of pharmaceutical development projects, from early-stage research through to regulatory submission and market launch. Based in Randburg, Gauteng , this position operates under a hybrid work model, allowing for effective collaboration within the office and focused work from home. You will be responsible for planning, executing, and closing projects, managing cross-functional teams, budgets, timelines, and resources to ensure successful project delivery. The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership skills, a deep understanding of drug development processes, and a proven ability to navigate complex challenges in a fast-paced environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage multiple pharmaceutical development projects concurrently, ensuring alignment with strategic objectives.
• Develop comprehensive project plans, including scope, timelines, budgets, resource allocation, and risk management strategies.
• Coordinate and facilitate cross-functional project teams, fostering effective communication and collaboration among members.
• Monitor project progress, identify potential risks and issues, and implement proactive solutions to keep projects on track.
• Manage project budgets, track expenditures, and ensure efficient resource utilization.
• Prepare and present regular project status reports to senior management and stakeholders.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant regulatory requirements (e.g., ICH, GCP, GMP) throughout the project lifecycle.
• Facilitate decision-making processes and resolve conflicts within project teams.
• Oversee the documentation and archiving of project-related information.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of project management methodologies and processes within the organization.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Pharmacy, Science, Engineering, or a related field; Master's degree or MBA preferred.
• Minimum of 6-8 years of experience in project management within the pharmaceutical or biotechnology industry, with a strong understanding of drug development processes.
• Proven track record of successfully managing complex projects from initiation to completion.
• Proficiency in project management software (e.g., MS Project, Asana, Jira) and methodologies (e.g., Agile, Waterfall).
• In-depth knowledge of pharmaceutical development phases, regulatory affairs, and quality assurance principles.
• Excellent leadership, communication, interpersonal, and negotiation skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, with a strategic mindset.
• Ability to manage budgets and resources effectively.
• Must be able to work effectively in a hybrid environment and reside within or be willing to commute to Randburg, Gauteng.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, a comprehensive benefits package including medical aid, retirement fund, performance incentives, and generous leave provisions. The hybrid work model promotes a flexible and productive work environment, enhancing work-life balance. You will have the opportunity to work on cutting-edge projects, collaborate with talented professionals, and contribute to the development of life-changing medicines. Our client is committed to employee growth through continuous training and development programs. Join a forward-thinking company in the vibrant city of Randburg, Gauteng , and shape the future of pharmaceutical innovation.