At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead regulatory strategy and ensure compliance across diverse healthcare products.
- Company: Vernacare, a pioneer in sustainable healthcare innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous leave, life insurance, and wellness support.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team committed to innovation and sustainability.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on patient safety and healthcare quality.
- Qualifications: Significant experience in Regulatory Affairs and strong leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
Location
Chorley, Lancashire - Remote/ Hybrid
Reporting to
- Director of QA, Regulatory Affairs & Clinical
- Join Vernacare and Help Shape the Future of Healthcare Compliance
At Vernacare, we proudly protect the safety and dignity of patients and the healthcare professionals who care for them.
As pioneers in sustainable manufacturing and healthcare innovation, we are committed to delivering exceptional product quality, outstanding customer service, and meaningful environmental impact.
We are now seeking an experienced
Head of Regulatory Affairs to lead our Regulatory Affairs function and drive regulatory excellence across our diverse portfolio of Medical Devices, Veterinary Pharmaceuticals, PPE, Biocides, Cosmetics, and General Products.
The Opportunity
This is a senior leadership role offering the chance to shape and implement regulatory strategy across a growing international business.
Reporting directly to the Director of QA, Regulatory Affairs & Clinical, you will lead a team of Regulatory Affairs professionals while remaining hands-on in the delivery of key regulatory programmes and submissions.
You will play a critical role in ensuring ongoing regulatory compliance, driving market access activities, leading major projects such as MDR remediation and MDSAP readiness, and building a high-performing regulatory team that supports Vernacare's continued growth.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and develop the Regulatory Affairs and Post-Market Registration teams.
- Implement regulatory strategy and translate business objectives into practical regulatory plans.
- Drive delivery of key regulatory programmes, including MDR remediation and MDSAP certification readiness.
- Oversee global product registrations, renewals, variations, and post-market maintenance activities.
- Ensure compliance across Medical Devices, Veterinary Pharmaceuticals, PPE, Biocides, Cosmetics, and General Products.
- Collaborate closely with Quality, Clinical, Commercial, Product Development, and Operations teams.
- Manage relationships with Notified Bodies, Competent Authorities, and regulatory agencies.
- Provide expert regulatory guidance on product development, market expansion, acquisitions, and change programmes.
- Lead audit and inspection readiness activities across the organisation.
- Monitor emerging regulatory requirements and assess business impacts.
About You
We're looking for a confident and pragmatic regulatory leader who thrives in a fast-paced regulated environment.
Essential Experience
- Significant Regulatory Affairs experience within a regulated industry.
- Experience leading Regulatory Affairs professionals and cross-functional teams.
- Strong knowledge of EU MDR, UK MDR, ISO 13485 and technical documentation requirements.
- Proven success delivering regulatory strategies and complex regulatory programmes.
- Experience working with Quality Management Systems, audits, and regulatory inspections.
- Strong stakeholder management and communication skills.
- Ability to balance strategic leadership with hands-on regulatory delivery.
Qualifications
- Degree in Life Sciences, Pharmacy, Regulatory Affairs, Veterinary Medicine, Biomedical Sciences, Engineering, or a related discipline (or equivalent experience).
Desirable
- Postgraduate qualification in Regulatory Affairs or related subject.
- Membership of TOPRA, RAPS, or similar professional body.
- Experience with MDSAP certification.
- Exposure to FDA, Health Canada, TGA, Veterinary Pharmaceuticals, PPE, Biocides, Cosmetics, or international registrations.
Why Join Vernacare?
We offer a competitive benefits package designed to support your wellbeing and recognise your contribution:
- Life Insurance – 4x salary
- 25 Days Annual Leave + Bank Holidays
- Enhanced Sick Pay Scheme
- EV & Cycle to Work Salary Sacrifice Schemes
- Employee Assistance Programme – including 24/7 GP access
- Mental Health First Aiders
- Refer a Friend Scheme – up to £1,000
- Company Pension Scheme
- Quarterly Impact Awards – up to £2,500
- Manager Recognition Awards
This is an outstanding opportunity for an ambitious regulatory leader to make a significant impact within a business committed to quality, innovation, sustainability, and patient care.
Interested?
If you're ready to lead regulatory excellence and play a key role in shaping the future of Vernacare's product portfolio, we'd love to hear from you.
Apply today and help us protect the safety and dignity of patients worldwide.
Head of Regulatory Affairs (Chorley - Remote/ Hybrid) employer: Vernacare International
Vernacare is an exceptional employer that prioritises the wellbeing of its employees while fostering a culture of innovation and accountability. With a hybrid working model based in Chorley or Bolton, we offer a supportive environment where you can thrive, alongside competitive benefits such as enhanced sick pay, life insurance, and opportunities for professional growth. Join us to be part of a dynamic team dedicated to making a meaningful impact in the healthcare sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Regulatory Affairs (Chorley - Remote/ Hybrid)
✨Join Compliance Communities
Get involved in compliance and risk communities — both online and offline. Look for forums, LinkedIn groups, or even local meetups where compliance pros hang out. You never know who might drop a job opportunity your way!
✨Attend Industry Conferences
Keep an eye out for compliance and risk management conferences and workshops in your area. These events are a goldmine for networking, and they often have job boards or recruiters on-site looking for new talent. Plus, it’s a chance to learn what's trending in the field.
✨Leverage Your University Career Services
If you’ve recently graduated or are still studying, head over to your university's career services. Many companies, including those in compliance, actively recruit fresh talent through these services, so make sure you tap into that resource.
✨Showcase Your Knowledge Online
Start writing articles or blog posts about compliance topics that interest you. Share them on platforms like LinkedIn to demonstrate your knowledge and passion. This not only builds your presence in the field but can also catch the attention of companies like Vernacare International looking for candidates who are engaged and informed.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Regulatory Affairs (Chorley - Remote/ Hybrid)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Understanding of Compliance:In the compliance-risk field, it's super important to showcase your understanding of regulations and risk management frameworks. Highlight any relevant coursework, certifications (like ICA or AML), or even projects that demonstrate your knowledge and commitment to this area. We want to see how you can navigate this complex landscape!
Quantify Your Achievements:When detailing your experience, try to quantify your achievements. For example, if you've previously worked on a project that improved compliance metrics or reduced risk exposure, give us the numbers! This data-driven approach really stands out to hiring managers in compliance-risk roles.
Tailor Your CV to Reflect Relevant Skills:Make sure your CV highlights skills that are particularly relevant to compliance, like attention to detail, analytical thinking, and report writing. Ensure these are easy to spot – consider using bullet points to break down your responsibilities and achievements for maximum impact!
Craft a Motivating Cover Letter:In your cover letter, let us know why you’re excited about the compliance-risk role at Vernacare International. Share what motivates you about compliance, and how you believe you can contribute to our mission. This is your chance to showcase not only your skills but also your passion for this important field!
How to prepare for a job interview at Vernacare International
✨Master the Regulations
Brush up on key compliance regulations relevant to the industry you're applying to. Familiarising yourself with specific laws and frameworks used in your field will give you an edge during technical questions. Show that you’re not just aware of them but can also apply them—think real-life scenarios!
✨Show Your Analytical Skills
Compliance roles really focus on analytical skills, so be prepared for case studies or situational questions during the interview. We've got to demonstrate how we approach risk assessments or compliance audits, possibly drawing on examples from past experiences or university projects. Bring some thoughtful case scenarios to discuss!
✨Know Your Tools
Get comfortable with commonly used compliance software and tools. Familiarity with platforms like RSA or MetricStream can really impress during your interview, as it shows you're ready to hit the ground running. If you’ve had any experience with them, make sure to highlight that!
✨Align with Company Culture
Since it's a full-time position, show your long-term commitment and interest in the company’s mission and values. Dive into how your ethics and professional philosophy align with Vernacare International’s stance on compliance. A shared vision can really resonate with interviewers looking for fit as much as skill!
