Head of Manufacturing Science and Technology

THE POSITION

You will strategically and technically lead all aspects of the MSAT (Manufacturing Science & Technology) functions within the site in order to drive transformational change and increase efficiency, safety and quality within the production site. 

This position is a Senior Leadership role and has the responsibility of aligning MSAT strategies through execution of projects that are aligned with the site strategy, the global MSAT strategy, industry benchmarks / best practices and the target KPIs. MSAT objective is to proactively and continuously improve the sites manufacturing processes using industry best practices and benchmarks as well as managing all transfer activities to Pirbright and within the BI network.

This role is based at our manufacturing site in Pirbright requiring a minimum of 2/3 days on site.

TASKS & RESPONSIBILITIES

•    Drive MSAT improvements thru a strategic risk-based approach by partnering with Functional Area Heads, Site Director and relevant local and global stakeholders.

•    Lead the overall strategy and planning of the local MSAT team to ensure implementation according to clearly detailed expectations and requirements.

•    Direct, develop and mentor employees to overall success of team.  Add value, and advance by leading, supporting, coaching, suggesting alternatives, providing insight, and removing obstacles.

•    Provactively interface with other off site support functions such as VPH Tech Services, Global MSAT and other sites, Regulatory Affairs, Global Innovation (GI), and external consultants / process experts where appropriate to ensure Pirbright adheres to supply commitments, regulatory and market needs, ready for new vaccine strains, new registrations or technical requests coming from existing customers

•    Operate within the site leadership team to deliver on time and budget site strategic objectives, be it through process robustness & yield improvement, cost avoidance, CAPEX implementation or compliance drivers. Use VPH product and process knowledge to support SLT decision making in terms of site priorities.

•    Lead and maintain the site industrial risk management program. Drive actions to mitigate risks to an acceptable level. Communicate new risk and mitigation to relevant stakeholders.

• Provide technical knowledge in complex deviations.

REQUIREMENTS

•    Master of Science in life sciences (e.g. Biochemical / Biotechnology), preferably with PhD

• Extensive MSAT/scientific experience within a biologics GMP manufacturing environment. Vaccine knowledge is a plus.

•    Proven track record of building and leading teams of highly qualified scientists and engineers.

•    Demonstrated ability to trouble shoot complex manufacturing processes, investigate atypical process events in a highly structured manner.

• Develop valid process scale down models and deliver solutions on time and on budget

•    Proven track record of developing and transferring efficient and robust GMP manufacturing processes and technologies for biologics.

•    Ability to be creative and innovative to develop potential resolutions to project obstacles.

•    Maintain a continuous process improvement mind set and in depth understanding of transformations/change management

•    Strong ability to influence in a team environment and collaborate with peers.