Site Director

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced and visionary Site Head to lead a flagship pharmaceutical manufacturing site in Europe. The successful candidate will have full responsibility for site operations, driving performance, compliance, and culture across a workforce of over 700 employees. This is a critical leadership role with accountability for operational excellence, financial performance, regulatory compliance, and strategic growth.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Strategy

Provide overall leadership for the site, setting clear vision, objectives, and culture.

Develop and implement long-term strategies aligned with company growth, client needs, and regulatory expectations.

Operational Excellence

Ensure reliable, efficient, and cost-effective manufacturing of APIs to meet global client demand.

Drive continuous improvement initiatives across quality, productivity, and safety.

Champion digitalisation, sustainability, and lean manufacturing practices.

Regulatory & Quality Compliance

Maintain compliance with GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice), EHS (Environment, Health & Safety) and all applicable international regulations.

Act as the senior contact for regulatory inspections and client audits.

Financial Accountability

Own the site P&L, ensuring delivery of budgetary and financial performance targets.

Oversee investment planning, capital projects, and cost-optimisation initiatives.

People & Culture

Lead, inspire, and develop a diverse workforce.

Build a high-performance culture based on safety, accountability, collaboration, and innovation.

Implement robust succession planning and talent development programmes.

Stakeholder Engagement

Represent the site to senior company leadership, clients, regulators, and local community stakeholders.

Act as a visible ambassador of the company’s values and mission.

Qualifications & Experience

Advanced degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Pharmacy, or related discipline. MBA preferred.

15+ years of progressive leadership experience in pharmaceutical / biotech manufacturing, with at least 5 years in a senior site or large plant leadership role.

Proven track record in API manufacturing and CDMO business environment.

Strong knowledge of GMP, regulatory frameworks (EMA, FDA, ICH), and EHS standards.

Demonstrated ability to manage large, complex organisations with >

500 employees.

Strategic thinker with commercial acumen and client-facing experience.

Exceptional communication, influencing, and change leadership skills.