Controls and Automation Manager

Thank you for checking out our vacancy, we are delighted you want to learn more about joining Dechra. A career at Dechra is different. Sure, we are a growing global company with a presence in 27 countries but our purpose is simple - to achieve the sustainable improvement of animal health and welfare globally. If you want to be part of a team that invests in your future and ensures you have the support to reach your full potential and thrive, please read on.

The Controls and Automation Manager is responsible for overseeing the design, development, and maintenance of automated systems and control processes across manufacturing operations. This role ensures compliance with regulatory standards, optimizes production efficiency, and guarantees the safe, reliable, and effective operation of automated systems used in pharmaceutical manufacturing. As a key leader in the engineering team, the Controls and Automation Manager will collaborate with cross-functional teams, including production, quality assurance, IT, and compliance, to drive continuous improvement in automation technologies while ensuring alignment with industry best practices and regulatory requirements (such as cGMP, FDA, and EMA standards).

Role Responsibility

This role has a broad and varied remit and the successful candidate will have responsibility for duties including:

• Lead the implementation and maintenance of automation and control systems in manufacturing environments.
• Oversee the integration of new automation systems and upgrades to existing systems, ensuring minimum downtime during transitions.
• Manage and mentor a team of controls engineers, automation technicians, and other relevant staff.
• Collaborate with other departments (production, quality, engineering, IT, etc.) to resolve automation-related challenges and drive process optimization.
• Foster a culture of continuous improvement and innovation, encouraging staff development and knowledge sharing.
• Create and manage project timelines, resources, and budgets, ensuring adherence to internal and external timelines.
• Develop risk assessments and mitigate potential issues associated with new automation initiatives.
• Design, develop, and optimize control systems (PLC, SCADA, DCS, etc.) for various pharmaceutical manufacturing processes.
• Evaluate and implement new technologies to improve system performance, energy efficiency, and safety.
• Conduct troubleshooting and root cause analysis for automation-related issues, ensuring minimal impact on production.
• Participate in regulatory inspections and audits, providing technical support and ensuring adherence to compliance standards.
• Prepare and review documentation related to automation systems, including SOPs, protocols, and reports.
• Promote a culture of safety by ensuring that all automation systems are designed and maintained to meet safety standards and risk management guidelines.
• Develop and enforce safe working practices related to automation equipment and control systems.

The Candidate

Here at Dechra we pride ourselves on being an inclusive employer. We know that individuals' unique background and experience can bring a wealth of variety and expertise to our global workforce. For this role, we are particularly keen to hear from those who have/are:

• Minimum of 5 years in automation/controls management within a regulated manufacturing environment, ideally within the pharmaceutical, biotech, or life sciences industries.
• Strong knowledge of PLC, SCADA, DCS, HMI, and other control systems.
• Experience with automated systems in pharmaceutical manufacturing, including process control, packaging, and laboratory automation.
• Familiarity with pharmaceutical regulatory requirements (e.g., FDA, cGMP).
• Proven experience leading cross-functional teams and managing complex projects from concept to implementation.
• Proficient in automation software (e.g., Siemens, Allen Bradley, Rockwell), and strong understanding of industrial networking protocols.
• Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills for diagnosing and resolving complex technical issues in control and automation systems.

Additional Information:

Occasional global travel may be required with this role. This role is based in the UK / remote.

What we can offer you:

• 33 days annual leave (inclusive of Bank Holidays)
• Employee Assistance Program
• Life Assurance
• Enhanced Family Leave
• Bonus (discretionary)
• Car or car allowance (discretionary)
• Discounted Pet Food

About the Company

If a career at Dechra has piqued your interest, find out more at Dechra Careers. Dechra is a growing, global specialist in veterinary pharmaceuticals. Our expertise is in the development, manufacture, marketing and sales of high quality products exclusively for veterinarians worldwide. All applications received are reviewed by our internal talent acquisition team and we will get in touch if your skills and experience match what we are looking for. Should you not hear back from us within 28 days please don’t be too disappointed - we may keep your CV on our database for any future vacancies which could be suitable, and we encourage you to keep an eye on our career site. We value diversity within our global workforce and encourage an inclusive culture. Any questions or queries, please contact us.