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- Tasks: Lead the QA function and shape quality standards in a growing CDMO.
- Company: Rapidly evolving UK-based CDMO with a strong scientific foundation.
- Benefits: Opportunity to make a lasting impact and work with experienced professionals.
- Other info: Enjoy autonomy and visibility while building systems and culture.
- Why this job: Join a pivotal growth phase and influence quality as a competitive advantage.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in leading quality teams within a CDMO environment.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
I'm partnering exclusively with a well-established and rapidly evolving UK-based CDMO that is entering a pivotal phase of growth. This is a business with a strong scientific foundation, an existing GMP operation, and clear ambition to scale both capability and reputation over the next few years.
They are now looking to bring in a Head of Quality who can help shape the next chapter of the organisation and act as a visible leader within the GMP function.
You will take full ownership of the QA function, providing direction, structure, and hands-on expertise as the business grows its manufacturing and client portfolio. You will be expected to lead from the front, setting standards, embedding best practice, and acting as the senior quality authority across the site.
The role will suit someone who has expertise working in a CDMO environment and enjoys operating close to the detail when needed, but who can also step back and build systems, teams, and culture that scale. You will work closely with senior stakeholders across operations, technical, and commercial functions, helping ensure quality remains a competitive advantage rather than a bottleneck.
What you'll need to succeed:
- Proven experience leading quality teams within a CDMO environment
- Confidence acting as the senior quality voice during periods of change or growth
- A leadership style that balances rigour, pragmatism, and collaboration
What you'll get in return:
This is a rare opportunity to step into a senior quality leadership role where you can genuinely shape how a function operates. You'll be joining a capable and motivated quality group, working alongside experienced professionals, and playing a central role in the company's growth journey. The opportunity offers strong visibility, real autonomy, and the chance to make a lasting impact.
What you need to do now:
If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now. If this job isn't quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position, please reach out to Julia Bowden for a confidential discussion about your career.
Head of Quality (CDMO Expertise Required) in Manchester employer: Hays Life Sciences
Contact Detail:
Hays Life Sciences Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Quality (CDMO Expertise Required) in Manchester
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, especially those who have experience in CDMO environments. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even referrals that could give you an edge.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company’s recent projects and challenges. This shows you're genuinely interested and ready to contribute to their growth. Plus, it gives you great talking points to demonstrate how your expertise aligns with their needs.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, send a quick thank-you note to express your appreciation. It keeps you on their radar and reinforces your enthusiasm for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for the best chance at landing that Head of Quality role. We’re all about making connections and helping you find the right fit, so don’t miss out on the opportunity to showcase your skills directly!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Quality (CDMO Expertise Required) in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV speaks directly to the role of Head of Quality. Highlight your experience in CDMO environments and any leadership roles you've held. We want to see how your background aligns with our needs!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this position. Share specific examples of how you've led quality teams and driven change in previous roles. We love a good story!
Showcase Your Leadership Style: In your application, let us know about your leadership style. We’re looking for someone who balances rigour with collaboration. Share instances where you’ve successfully led teams through growth or change – we want to hear about it!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team at StudySmarter!
How to prepare for a job interview at Hays Life Sciences
✨Know Your CDMO Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the company's background, especially its GMP operations and growth ambitions. Familiarise yourself with their current projects and challenges in the CDMO space, as this will help you demonstrate your expertise and how you can contribute to their goals.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Prepare to discuss your leadership approach, particularly how you balance rigour, pragmatism, and collaboration. Think of specific examples where you've successfully led quality teams through change or growth, and be ready to explain how you can apply that experience to shape the quality function at this company.
✨Emphasise Quality as a Competitive Advantage
During the interview, highlight your understanding of how quality can be a competitive advantage rather than a bottleneck. Share insights on best practices you've implemented in previous roles and how they can be adapted to enhance the company's reputation and operational efficiency.
✨Engage with Senior Stakeholders
Be prepared to discuss how you would work closely with senior stakeholders across various functions. Show that you value collaboration and can effectively communicate quality standards while aligning them with operational and commercial objectives. This will demonstrate your ability to be a visible leader within the organisation.