- Posted 02 September 2024
- Job type Contract
- DisciplinePharmaceuticals and Biotechnology, Quality and Regulatory
- ReferenceVL1
Consultant
Director of Quality Assurance
Job description
Job Summary:
Our client, a leading pharmaceutical company, is seeking an experienced and highly skilled Director of Quality Assurance to lead their QA department remotely. This critical role requires a strategic leader with extensive experience in pharmaceutical quality assurance, ensuring that all products meet rigorous regulatory standards and quality benchmarks. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record of managing QA teams in the pharmaceutical industry, implementing best practices, and ensuring compliance with industry regulations.
Key Responsibilities:
Leadership & Strategy:
Develop and implement the overall QA strategy for the client, ensuring alignment with business objectives, regulatory requirements, and product development goals.
Lead, mentor, and manage a global team of QA professionals, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and quality excellence.
Collaborate with the client’s R&D, Manufacturing, Regulatory Affairs, and Supply Chain teams to ensure quality is embedded throughout the product lifecycle.
Regulatory Compliance & Quality Systems:
Ensure compliance with all relevant pharmaceutical regulations, including FDA, EMA, GMP, and ISO standards.
Establish, maintain, and continuously improve the client’s quality management systems (QMS) to meet or exceed regulatory and industry standards.
Prepare for and manage regulatory inspections and audits, ensuring readiness and compliance across all functions.
Process & Implementation:
Oversee the development, validation, and implementation of quality assurance processes, including risk management, CAPA (Corrective and Preventive Action), and change control procedures.
Implement and maintain robust systems for document control, deviation management, and batch release.
Integrate quality assurance practices into the client’s manufacturing processes, ensuring product quality from development through commercialisation.
Quality Control & Testing:
Oversee all phases of product testing, including raw material, in-process, and final product testing, to ensure the highest levels of quality and compliance.
Ensure effective management of the client’s stability programs, method validation, and analytical testing.
Develop and enforce quality assurance policies and procedures to minimise risks and optimise product safety and efficacy.
Reporting & Analysis:
Provide regular quality reports to the client’s executive leadership, including key performance indicators (KPIs), compliance updates, and improvement initiatives.
Conduct root cause analysis of quality issues, driving corrective actions to prevent recurrence and ensure continuous improvement.
Customer & Market Focus:
Collaborate with the client’s Commercial and Customer Support teams to gather market feedback, address quality concerns, and implement necessary improvements.
Stay current with industry trends, emerging regulations, and advancements in pharmaceutical QA practices to ensure the client’s products remain competitive and compliant.
Required Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in Pharmacy, Chemistry, Biology, or a related field; Master’s or Doctorate degree preferred.
10+ years of experience in Quality Assurance within the pharmaceutical industry, with at least 5 years in a leadership role.
Extensive knowledge of pharmaceutical regulatory requirements (FDA, EMA, GMP, ISO) and quality management systems.
Proven ability to lead and manage remote and distributed QA teams in a highly regulated environment.
Strong understanding of pharmaceutical manufacturing processes, including formulation, packaging, and distribution.
Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills, with a focus on compliance and quality improvement.
Exceptional communication and leadership abilities, with a collaborative approach to cross-functional teamwork.
Preferred Qualifications:
Experience with biologics, sterile manufacturing, or other specialised pharmaceutical areas.
Certifications such as Certified Quality Auditor (CQA) or Certified Pharmaceutical GMP Professional (CPGP).
Familiarity with digital quality management systems (QMS) and electronic batch record systems.
What the Client Offers:
Competitive salary and performance-based incentives.
Comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, and vision insurance.
Flexible working hours and the ability to work remotely.
Opportunities for professional growth and development in a dynamic and innovative environment.
A commitment to quality, patient safety, and regulatory compliance.
Message me directly or drop me an email at vilius.lukauskas@lifesciencepeople.co.uk if interested.