Senior Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Operations Manager

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

Benefits offered by this job

Remote-first culture

Home office setup allowance

Bonus potential

Flexible work hours

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Operations Manager to lead remote manufacturing activities across multiple lines. You will drive production planning, resource allocation, and quality control within GMP frameworks while coordinating cross-functional teams in a fully remote setup.

Ideal candidates have 8–10+ years in pharma manufacturing, strong leadership, and expertise with ERP/MES systems, lean/Six Sigma, and strategic cost optimization.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Pharmacy or Chemical Engineering; Master’s preferred.
• 8–10+ years in pharmaceutical manufacturing operations management.
• Proven track record in large-scale pharma facilities and GMP compliance.
• Experience with lean/Six Sigma and continuous improvement.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all pharmaceutical manufacturing operations and scheduling.
• Ensure GMP compliance and regulatory requirements.
• Lead cost reduction and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Manage remote manufacturing team and performance reviews.
• Oversee supply chain relationships and supplier quality.
• Implement and maintain MES and ERP-driven processes.
• Conduct regular CAPA investigations and corrective actions.

Skills

Leadership

Remote management

GMP knowledge

Strategic planning

Problem solving

ERP systems

MES experience

Budget management

Cross-functional coordination

Regulatory compliance

Education

Bachelor's degree in Pharmacy or Chemical Engineering

Master's degree preferred

Tools

ERP systems

MES

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leader in pharmaceutical production, is seeking a highly experienced Senior Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Operations Manager to spearhead their manufacturing operations. This is a fully remote position, offering an exceptional opportunity to manage and optimize production processes without the need for on-site presence. You will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of pharmaceutical manufacturing, including production planning, resource allocation, quality compliance, and team leadership, all managed through advanced digital platforms. This role requires a deep understanding of GMP, operational excellence, and supply chain management within the pharmaceutical sector. As a remote-first leader, you will drive efficiency and innovation, ensuring the highest standards of product quality and safety are met across multiple production lines. This is a strategic leadership role perfect for an experienced operations manager looking to leverage their skills in a flexible, remote environment, contributing to the successful delivery of essential medicines. The company is committed to fostering a remote-first culture, providing the necessary tools and support for leaders to excel. Your leadership will be critical in maintaining our reputation for manufacturing excellence. This role offers significant autonomy and the chance to shape the future of our production strategies. We are looking for a dynamic leader to drive continuous improvement initiatives from **Vereeniging**, **Gauteng**, though operations are not localized to this area, your role will be fully remote. Your strategic oversight is paramount.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee and manage all aspects of pharmaceutical manufacturing operations, including production scheduling, resource management, and budget control.
• Ensure strict adherence to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and all relevant regulatory requirements.
• Develop and implement strategies for operational excellence, continuous improvement, and cost reduction.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing manufacturing team through effective remote management techniques.
• Drive production planning and ensure timely delivery of high-quality pharmaceutical products.
• Manage relationships with key suppliers and ensure the integrity of the supply chain.
• Oversee the implementation and maintenance of manufacturing technologies and equipment.
• Develop and execute robust quality assurance and quality control procedures within the manufacturing environment.
• Conduct regular performance reviews and implement corrective actions as needed.
• Foster a culture of safety, quality, and efficiency within the manufacturing operations.
• Manage deviation investigations and implement CAPA to prevent recurrence.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Pharmacy, Chemical Engineering, or a related field; Master's degree preferred.
• Minimum of 8-10 years of progressive experience in pharmaceutical manufacturing operations management.
• Proven track record of successfully managing large-scale pharmaceutical production facilities.
• Extensive knowledge of GMP regulations and pharmaceutical manufacturing processes.
• Demonstrated experience in implementing lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, or other continuous improvement methodologies.
• Strong leadership, team management, and communication skills, adapted for remote environments.
• Excellent strategic planning, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
• Experience with ERP systems and manufacturing execution systems (MES).
• Ability to manage budgets and control costs effectively.
• Proven experience in managing cross-functional teams and collaborating with regulatory bodies.
• Must be comfortable and effective working in a fully remote capacity, requiring strong self-discipline and digital communication proficiency.
• Residency within **South Africa** is preferred for administrative and potential infrequent travel purposes, although the role is primarily remote.

Benefits

• Our client offers an attractive salary package for this senior remote leadership role.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance is provided.
• A generous retirement fund contribution is offered.
• Significant annual leave and paid time off are granted.
• Opportunities for professional development, including executive leadership training and industry certifications, are available.
• This fully remote position provides ultimate flexibility and eliminates commute time and expenses.
• A dedicated home office setup allowance is provided.
• Performance-based bonuses and potential stock options are part of the compensation structure.
• Our client fosters a culture of innovation and work-life balance.
• Access to cutting-edge manufacturing technologies and methodologies.
• Opportunities for significant career growth and impact within a leading pharmaceutical company.
• Exposure to a diverse range of pharmaceutical products.