Head of Operational Services (M/W/X) - Filling and Lyophilization
CSL Behring Marburg, the largest manufacturing site within the CSL network, is seeking a dedicated and experienced leader for the role of Head of Operational Services in the Value Stream Filling and Lyophilization. In this pivotal position, you will lead cross-functional teams and play a central role in ensuring regulatory compliance, quality assurance, and operational excellence across the Value Stream (VS). You will drive strategic initiatives focused on continuous improvement, cross-functional collaboration, and regulatory engagement, while acting as a key interface between operational teams and global functions.
The Role:
- Lead and develop cross-functional teams, including operational services, detailed manufacturing scheduling, and compliance, as well as subject matter experts such as MES/EDV coordinators, aseptic leads, and documentation specialists.
- Serve as head of manufacturing within the value stream (leiter der herstellung as defined under §14 AMG – German Medicines Act), with responsibility for reviewing and approving production protocols.
- Foster talent development and cultivate a high-performance culture that inspires individuals to achieve both personal and organizational goals.
- Design, implement, and maintain policies and procedures to ensure compliant manufacturing operations in alignment with cGMP, Annex 1, safety, environmental protection, and lean principles.
- Oversee change control processes related to manufacturing operations and GMP documentation.
- Ensure timely and thorough deviation investigations and the implementation of effective corrective and preventive actions (CAPAs).
- Maintain continuous cGMP compliance by implementing robust procedures and monitoring their effectiveness.
- Represent the value stream as a subject matter expert during internal, customer, and regulatory audits.
- Lead the evaluation of inspection outcomes, drive the execution of CAPAs, and ensure timely communication with regulatory authorities.
- Conduct and oversee GxP training programs for value stream staff, covering cGMP, safety, and environmental protection.
- Drive continuous improvement initiatives aimed at enhancing operational efficiency and economic performance, including optimization of throughput, yield, lot sizes, and labor utilization.
- Lead the development of risk assessments and provide oversight in critical deviation investigations.
- Act as a key interface to global functions and other CSL Behring value streams, promoting knowledge sharing and best practices.
Your Skills and Experience:
Educational Background:
Degree in a relevant scientific discipline such as pharmacy, chemistry, biotechnology, biology, or biochemistry.
Industry Experience:
8–10 years of experience in the pharmaceutical or biotech industry, with broad expertise across disciplines including quality, aseptic operations, process engineering, and regulatory affairs.
Leadership Experience:
Minimum of 3 years in a leadership or team management role, with demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional teams effectively.
Core Competencies:
- Strong leadership and interpersonal skills
- Proven expertise in GMP compliance, quality assurance, and regulatory inspections (e.g., FDA [CBER, CDER], Regierungspräsidium)
- Experience in occupational safety and continuous improvement methodologies
- Lean Six Sigma Green Belt certification preferred
- Fluent in English, both written and spoken