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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a new R&D unit, managing projects in pharmaceuticals and chemicals.
- Company: Join a dynamic team in Chelmsford, focused on innovation in biotech and pharmaceuticals.
- Benefits: Earn £650 a day on an 11-month contract, with flexible working options.
- Why this job: Be at the forefront of R&D, driving impactful projects in a fast-paced environment.
- Qualifications: MA or PhD in Life Sciences, IT, or Engineering; 10+ years in biotech/pharma management.
- Other info: Opportunity to lead cross-functional teams and influence industry advancements.
The predicted salary is between 104000 - 156000 £ per year.
Location: Chelmsford, UK
Department: Operations Directorate
Reporting to: Operations Director, UK
About the Role
We are seeking an experienced Lead (TL) for an 11-month contract to play a pivotal role in establishing and managing a new Chemicals and Materials R&D Unit in Chelmsford, UK. This senior position focuses on delivering consulting services for pharmaceutical and chemical manufacturing facilities, research and development logistics, and outsourced production. As a shared facility, the R&D unit will handle multiple client projects, requiring a hands-on, dynamic leader to drive innovation and operational excellence.
The Technology Lead will oversee the design, development, and validation of processes, instruments, and equipment, while also managing clinical information technologies and strategic vendor interactions. This role involves leading cross-functional project teams, ensuring technology solutions align with business objectives, and delivering projects on time, scope, and budget.
Key Responsibilities
- IT Logistics Development:
- Analyse and optimize business processes to align with technology solutions.
- Identify and deploy clinical information systems to support product development.
- Develop and manage project plans, including timelines, resources, risks, and stakeholder communications.
- Ensure system validation, change control, and stakeholder alignment throughout project lifecycles.
- Oversee schedules, supplies, equipment, and manpower in the pilot plant, with a focus on solid oral dosage forms.
- Provide technical leadership in process development, validation, and equipment qualification.
- Manage technology transfer projects to ensure timely scale-up and product launches.
- Author and approve technical documentation (SOPs, batch records, validation protocols).
- Lead cross-functional project teams and oversee contractors without direct reports.
- Foster strong relationships with business leaders, vendors, and stakeholders.
- Drive operational excellence and innovative solutions in a fast-paced, client-driven environment.
Qualifications & Experience
- MA or PhD in Life Sciences, IT, or Engineering.
- 10+ years of management experience in the biotech or pharmaceutical industry, with expertise in technical development and R&D project implementation.
- 5+ years of professional IT experience in high-performing technical and business environments.
- Technical expertise in at least one of: parenteral or solid drug product manufacturing/development, biotechnology, chemical production/development, analytical development, or quality control.
- Strong project management skills (PMP certification a plus).
- Excellent communication, leadership, and stakeholder management skills.
- Knowledge of GMP, system validation, and change control processes.
Person Specification
- Proven ability to lead complex projects in a matrix organization, delivering on aggressive milestones.
- Innovative and forward-thinking, with a focus on scalable, sustainable solutions.
- Exceptional interpersonal skills to influence and collaborate across functional areas.
- Hands-on approach with a track record of problem-solving and process optimization.
Project Lead (TL) - 11-Month Contract - £650 a day (Outside IR35) employer: WUNDERTALENT
Contact Detail:
WUNDERTALENT Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Project Lead (TL) - 11-Month Contract - £650 a day (Outside IR35)
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the biotech and pharmaceutical industries. Attend relevant conferences or seminars where you can meet potential colleagues or clients, as personal connections can often lead to job opportunities.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your leadership skills by sharing examples of past projects where you successfully led cross-functional teams. Be prepared to discuss how you managed challenges and drove innovation during these projects.
✨Tip Number 3
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends and technologies in R&D logistics and clinical information systems. Being knowledgeable about current advancements will help you stand out as a candidate who is ready to drive operational excellence.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your experience with GMP, system validation, and change control processes in detail. Highlight specific instances where you ensured compliance and quality in your previous roles, as this is crucial for the position.
We think you need these skills to ace Project Lead (TL) - 11-Month Contract - £650 a day (Outside IR35)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in project management, particularly in the biotech or pharmaceutical industry. Emphasise your leadership roles and any specific projects that align with the responsibilities of the Project Lead position.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your understanding of the role and the company. Mention your experience with R&D logistics and your ability to lead cross-functional teams. Be sure to express your enthusiasm for driving innovation and operational excellence.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: Clearly state your qualifications, such as your MA or PhD in Life Sciences, IT, or Engineering. Include any certifications like PMP that demonstrate your project management skills, as these are crucial for the role.
Showcase Problem-Solving Skills: In your application, provide examples of how you've successfully led complex projects and solved problems in a fast-paced environment. This will illustrate your hands-on approach and ability to deliver on aggressive milestones.
How to prepare for a job interview at WUNDERTALENT
✨Showcase Your Leadership Experience
As a Project Lead, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to lead cross-functional teams. Prepare specific examples of past projects where you successfully managed teams and delivered results, highlighting your leadership style and how you foster collaboration.
✨Highlight Technical Expertise
Given the technical nature of this role, be ready to discuss your experience in biotech or pharmaceutical environments. Focus on your knowledge of processes related to drug manufacturing or development, and be prepared to explain how you've applied this expertise in previous roles.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills and ability to handle complex project challenges. Think of scenarios where you've had to optimise processes or manage risks, and articulate your thought process and the outcomes of your decisions.
✨Demonstrate Stakeholder Management Skills
This role requires strong communication and stakeholder management abilities. Be prepared to discuss how you've built relationships with vendors and business leaders in the past, and how you ensure alignment and collaboration throughout project lifecycles.
