Head of Technical Operations

Job summary

Lead the scaling of technical operations from process development through GMP manufacturing, overseeing the kilo lab and pilot plant. Drive process optimization and lead a high-performing technical team while collaborating with executive leadership on operational strategy.

Job details

We are seeking a senior technical leader to join a growing CDMO in a key executive-facing role reporting to the CEO. This position will play a central role in scaling technical operations from process development through GMP manufacturing, within a highly chemistry-driven environment. Key responsibilities: Lead process development, scale-up, and technology transfer from lab to GMP manufacturing Oversee kilo lab, pilot plant, and GMP manufacturing operations Ensure GMP execution including batch records, deviations, and change controls Drive process optimization, yield improvement, impurity control, and cost efficiency Build and scale a high-performing technical operations team Collaborate with QA/QC, EHS, facilities, project management, and commercial teams Establish KPIs for safety, quality, delivery, and operational performance Support operational strategy and manufacturing scale-up planning Requirements: Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD in Chemistry 5+ years in pharma or CDMO environments Strong experience in GMP manufacturing, process chemistry, and scale-up Proven leadership of technical/operational teams in regulated environments Strong communication skills with scientific, operational, and executive stakeholders Senior leadership mandate with strong potential to evolve into broader executive responsibility as the organization grows.

What you’ll do

Lead the scaling of technical operations from process development through GMP manufacturing, overseeing the kilo lab and pilot plant. Drive process optimization and lead a high-performing technical team while collaborating with executive leadership on operational strategy.

Requirements

Requires a degree in Chemistry (Bachelor's, Master's, or PhD) and over 5 years of experience in pharma or CDMO environments. Must have proven leadership experience in regulated GMP manufacturing and process chemistry scale-up.

Listed skills

• Quality assurance · Preferred
• Quality Control · Preferred
• Team Leadership · Preferred

Other relevant skills

Identified from the job description. Confirm important requirements above.

• Process Development
• GMP Manufacturing
• Technology Transfer
• Scale-up
• Process Chemistry
• Operational Strategy
• Team Leadership
• Impurity Control
• Yield Improvement
• KPI Establishment
• Change Control
• Batch Records
• Executive Communication
• Cost Efficiency
• Quality Assurance
• Quality Control

Job areas

• Management & Leadership
• Manufacturing
• Science & Research
• Healthcare
• Engineering