Head of Downstream Processing
Head of Downstream Processing - 6 month Contract
Location: Valais, Switzerland
On-site: 5 days per week
Contract: 6-month assignment
About the Role
We are currently seeking an experienced Head of Downstream Processing (DSP) Manufacturing Operations to join a leading biopharmaceutical manufacturing site in Valais Canton.
In this leadership role, you will be responsible for overseeing DSP manufacturing operations and leading a multidisciplinary team of process engineers, manufacturing specialists, shift leaders, and biotechnologists. As a key member of the Manufacturing Leadership Team, you will drive operational performance, GMP compliance, continuous improvement initiatives, and the successful delivery of manufacturing campaigns.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead, coach, and develop a multidisciplinary manufacturing team, fostering a culture of accountability, engagement, and continuous development.
- Ensure safe, compliant, and efficient execution of DSP manufacturing operations while meeting quality, regulatory, customer, and delivery objectives.
- Drive operational excellence through KPI management, process optimization, problem-solving, and continuous improvement initiatives.
- Manage manufacturing performance, resource allocation, workforce planning, and capacity requirements to support business needs.
- Develop and implement training strategies to ensure operational readiness and sustainable performance.
- Collaborate closely with cross-functional stakeholders, including MSAT, QA, USP Operations, Production Support, and Supply Chain teams.
- Act as the manufacturing representative during customer visits, audits, and regulatory inspections, ensuring a constant state of inspection readiness.
- Provide technical and quality oversight through change controls, risk assessments, GMP documentation, and compliance activities.
- Contribute to site-wide initiatives as a member of the Manufacturing Leadership Team, supporting overall operational and business objectives.
- Support facility expansion and capital investment projects, including commissioning, qualification, automation, and operational readiness activities.
- Serve as Deputy Head of Operations when required, ensuring leadership continuity and effective decision-making.
Required Qualifications & Experience
- MSc or equivalent degree in Biotechnology, Chemical Engineering, Bioengineering, Chemistry, or a related scientific discipline.
- Fluency in English and German.
- Minimum 10 years of experience within biopharmaceutical manufacturing environments.
- Strong expertise in GMP-regulated manufacturing operations and operational excellence.
- Proven experience leading multidisciplinary teams in a manufacturing setting.
- Experience managing KPIs, production performance, resource planning, and continuous improvement initiatives.
- Excellent communication, leadership, coaching, and decision-making abilities.