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- Tasks: Lead and inspire teams in sterile pharmaceutical manufacturing, ensuring compliance and operational excellence.
- Company: Join a dynamic organisation focused on innovation and people development in the pharmaceutical industry.
- Benefits: Enjoy a culture of continuous improvement, professional growth, and impactful work on a global scale.
- Why this job: Make a measurable difference in a fast-paced environment while driving transformation and performance.
- Qualifications: Degree in relevant field and 10+ years in manufacturing leadership, especially in sterile operations.
- Other info: This role offers a unique chance to influence strategic decisions and engage with stakeholders at all levels.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
Are you a dynamic leader with a passion for operational excellence in sterile pharmaceutical manufacturing? This is your opportunity to take charge of a highly visible, impactful role where you’ll lead complex operations, drive performance, and elevate compliance standards on a global stage.
As Operations Site Lead, you will oversee high-performing teams responsible for the manufacture of veterinary pharmaceutical products in a sterile and aseptic environment. You'll ensure seamless, compliant production and timely delivery to international markets while fostering a culture of safety, quality, and continuous improvement.
You’ll play a central role in site-wide transformation initiatives, operational optimization, and strategic leadership — making a measurable difference in a fast-paced, highly regulated environment.
Key Responsibilities- Lead, inspire, and manage large cross-functional teams in a GMP-regulated sterile manufacturing setting.
- Drive a high-performance culture rooted in compliance, accountability, and excellence.
- Coach and develop team members to support ongoing growth, performance improvement, and succession planning.
- Spearhead site turnaround initiatives, transformational change, and process optimization projects.
- Ensure compliance with global regulatory authority standards (MHRA, FDA, EU GMP).
- Lead change management efforts, internal audits, and readiness for external regulatory inspections.
- Champion continuous improvement initiatives to enhance efficiency, reduce waste, and improve yield.
- Implement Lean, Six Sigma, and other process improvement methodologies within an aseptic/sterile setting.
- Own and deliver on Operational and Compliance KPIs, consistently exceeding production and quality goals.
- Oversee planning and scheduling to meet customer order deadlines and business objectives.
- Collaborate cross-functionally with Engineering, Validation, Quality, and Process Excellence teams.
- Ensure accurate, compliant completion of manufacturing documentation and QMS records.
- Build a culture of transparency, communication, and cross-departmental alignment.
- Degree in Pharmacy, Science, Engineering, Mathematics, or a related field, or equivalent industry experience.
- 10+ years in manufacturing leadership, with at least 5 in a senior sterile/aseptic operations role.
- Deep expertise in pharmaceutical manufacturing, including aseptic processing, API, packaging, and product launches.
- A proven track record of leading site operations, engaging teams, and influencing strategic decisions at the executive level.
- Strong understanding of global regulatory and validation requirements (FDA, MHRA, EU GMP).
- Experience managing EHS protocols, including NEBOSH, COSHH, and risk assessments.
- Skilled in performance management, mentoring, and developing talent in regulated environments.
- Proficiency in QMS documentation and digital tools (Excel, PowerPoint, Word).
- Strategic thinker with a strong eye for operational detail, capable of managing complex, fast-moving priorities.
- Outstanding communication and interpersonal skills with an ability to engage stakeholders at all levels and implement change effectively.
This is a unique chance to take a strategic leadership role in an organization that values innovation, excellence, and people development. If you’re ready to take ownership of a vital operation and make a lasting impact—this role is for you.
Site Lead employer: Next Phase Recruitment
Contact Detail:
Next Phase Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Site Lead
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the pharmaceutical manufacturing industry, especially those with experience in sterile and aseptic environments. Attend industry conferences or webinars to connect with potential colleagues and learn about the latest trends and challenges in operations management.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with Lean and Six Sigma methodologies, as these are crucial for process improvement in a GMP-regulated setting. Consider obtaining certifications if you haven't already, as this will demonstrate your commitment to operational excellence and continuous improvement.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your leadership style and how you've successfully managed cross-functional teams in the past. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've driven performance and compliance in previous roles, as this will showcase your ability to lead effectively in a high-stakes environment.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on global regulatory standards such as FDA, MHRA, and EU GMP. Understanding these regulations deeply will not only help you in interviews but also position you as a knowledgeable candidate who can ensure compliance and drive operational success from day one.
We think you need these skills to ace Site Lead
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience in sterile pharmaceutical manufacturing and leadership roles. Emphasise your achievements in operational excellence, compliance, and team management to align with the job requirements.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for operational excellence and your ability to lead high-performing teams. Use specific examples from your past experiences that demonstrate your skills in driving performance and managing compliance.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: Clearly outline your educational background and any relevant certifications, such as NEBOSH or Six Sigma. This will help demonstrate your expertise in regulatory standards and process improvement methodologies.
Showcase Leadership Experience: In your application, provide examples of how you have successfully led teams in a GMP-regulated environment. Discuss your approach to coaching and developing talent, as well as any transformational initiatives you have spearheaded.
How to prepare for a job interview at Next Phase Recruitment
✨Showcase Your Leadership Experience
Be prepared to discuss your previous leadership roles in detail. Highlight specific examples where you successfully led teams in a GMP-regulated environment, focusing on how you inspired and managed cross-functional teams to achieve operational excellence.
✨Demonstrate Regulatory Knowledge
Familiarise yourself with the global regulatory standards relevant to the role, such as MHRA, FDA, and EU GMP. Be ready to explain how you've ensured compliance in past positions and how you would approach regulatory challenges in this new role.
✨Emphasise Continuous Improvement Initiatives
Prepare to discuss your experience with Lean, Six Sigma, or other process improvement methodologies. Share specific examples of how you've implemented these strategies to enhance efficiency and reduce waste in sterile manufacturing settings.
✨Engage with Strategic Thinking
Articulate your strategic vision for the role and how you plan to drive performance and transformation initiatives. Be ready to discuss how you prioritise complex tasks and manage fast-moving priorities while maintaining operational detail.
