Associate Director, Analytical Quality Control in Cramlington

Pharmaron is a global CRO helping pharma and biotech companies bring new therapies to life. With over 25,000 employees worldwide across 23 sites in the UK, US and China, we support drug discovery through to manufacturing with fully integrated, high-quality services.

We are now seeking a highly experienced and forward-thinking Head of Analytical Quality Control to lead our Analytical QC operations at our Cramlington site. This is a key leadership position driving scientific excellence, operational performance, regulatory compliance and team development within our Analytical QC organisation.

At Pharmaron we offer:

• A vibrant, fast-growing business working at the forefront of the life sciences sector
• Excellent opportunities for professional development within a rapidly expanding global organisation
• A collaborative, supportive team environment where high standards and scientific excellence are celebrated
• The chance to make a direct impact on high-value CMC programmes and global client partnerships

Key roles and responsibilities:

• Lead multiple analytical teams and enable delivery of complex, multi-disciplinary projects
• Ensure Analytical QC operations comply with GMP, regulatory requirements and Pharmaron procedures
• Manage resources, forecast capacity and address constraints to meet project timelines
• Oversee laboratory investigations, ensuring thorough, timely and compliant execution
• Maintain governance of QMS documentation including deviations, CAPAs and change controls, ensuring on-time closure
• Develop and review departmental metrics, monitor trends and implement CAPAs where required
• Act as point of escalation for complex technical or operational issues
• Provide regular updates to senior management on technical matters, resource status and departmental performance
• Shape scientific strategy, drive innovation and introduce new analytical technologies
• Independently author or oversee high-quality technical reports, publications and presentations
• Lead Analytical QC support during client audits and regulatory inspections (e.g. MHRA, FDA)
• Collaborate cross-functionally to harmonise processes and support business activities including proposals and client visits
• Manage forecasting, procurement, installation, qualification and maintenance of analytical instrumentation
• Provide leadership, coaching, performance management and development for the Analytical QC team

Requirements:

• 10+ years (PhD) or 15+ years (MSc/BSc) of relevant industry experience
• Extensive leadership experience within Analytical Chemistry or Quality Control in a GMP environment
• Strong background in analytical sciences applied to API development, with deep understanding of core and advanced analytical techniques
• Proven experience managing multi-disciplinary scientific teams, including coaching, performance management and capability development
• Demonstrated ability to operate strategically, manage complex projects and make sound scientific and operational decisions
• Strong understanding of GMP, GLP and ICH guidelines with experience supporting audits and regulatory inspections
• Excellent communication and stakeholder-management skills, with the ability to influence across functions and at senior levels
• Highly organised, able to prioritise effectively and drive delivery in a fast-paced environment
• Proactive, resilient and solution-focused leader with strong attention to detail and commitment to quality
• Strong interpersonal skills, collaborative mindset and ability to build a positive team culture
• High level of integrity, professionalism and respect for confidentiality

Our Cramlington site has an established history of cGMP manufacturing services for an array of Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (API), ranging from pilot scale to commercial metric ton scale. The site operates from small scale in the laboratory through to large manufacturing scale. It also offers chemistry and analytical development service.