Head of Manufacturing - Biologics

Job Title: Head of Biologics Manufacturing

Location: Hesse

Reports to: SVP of Manufacturing

Department: Manufacturing / Operations

Job Type: Full-Time

Position Overview:

Our client is seeking a seasoned and strategic leader for the role of Head of Biologics Manufacturing. This individual will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of biologics manufacturing operations, ensuring the delivery of high-quality biopharmaceutical products in compliance with global regulatory standards. The successful candidate will bring extensive experience in biologics production, strong leadership skills, and a track record of operational excellence in GMP environments.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead end-to-end biologics manufacturing operations, including upstream, downstream, and fill/finish processes.
• Develop and execute manufacturing strategies aligned with organizational goals and product pipeline milestones.
• Ensure adherence to quality, regulatory, safety, and compliance standards (e.g., FDA, EMA, ICH, cGMP).
• Manage and mentor a multidisciplinary manufacturing team, promoting a high-performance and quality-focused culture.
• Oversee tech transfer, scale-up, and validation activities for new products and processes.
• Collaborate closely with internal stakeholders across Quality, Regulatory, Process Development, Engineering, and Supply Chain.
• Provide leadership during regulatory inspections, audits, and partner due diligence activities.
• Drive operational improvements through continuous improvement initiatives and adoption of innovative technologies.
• Manage budgets, capacity planning, and manufacturing KPIs to support clinical and commercial demands.

Candidate Profile:

• Bachelor’s degree in Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related field; advanced degree (MSc, PhD, or MBA) preferred.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in biologics manufacturing, with at least 3 years in senior leadership roles.
• Proven expertise in GMP biologics production, including experience with technologies such as single-use systems, perfusion, chromatography, and aseptic fill/finish.
• Demonstrated success in leading teams, scaling operations, and supporting tech transfer/commercialization activities.
• Strong knowledge of regulatory requirements and experience managing inspections and audits.
• Excellent interpersonal, leadership, and decision-making skills.
• Experience with digital manufacturing systems and continuous improvement methodologies is an advantage.
• Fluency in both German & English

Why This Role:

• High-impact leadership role within a dynamic and growing biopharmaceutical organization.
• Opportunity to shape and scale biologics manufacturing capabilities to support a robust pipeline.
• Competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits package.

Email applicants: Jake.tookey@discoverinternational.com