Spray Dryer Manager

On behalf of one of our partners, a leading international pharmaceutical company based in the canton of Neuchâtel, we are currently recruiting a Spray Dryer Manager for a permanent position.

This is a key leadership role responsible for ensuring the high-quality and on-time delivery of Spray-Dried Dispersions (SDDs). The successful candidate will oversee spray drying manufacturing operations running 24/5, while driving operational excellence, process optimization, regulatory compliance, and team performance.

Key Responsibilities

Production Management

• Lead daily spray drying operations to ensure product quality, yield, and manufacturing efficiency.
• Monitor and optimize critical process parameters, including inlet/outlet temperatures, feed rates, moisture levels, and process performance.
• Ensure adherence to production schedules and operational targets.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance productivity and product consistency.

Team Leadership

• Manage, coach, and develop a team of operators and technicians.
• Foster a strong culture of safety, quality, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• Plan workforce allocation and shift schedules to ensure efficient operations.
• Support employee training and skills development.

Quality & Compliance

• Ensure all manufacturing activities comply with GMP requirements, quality standards, and regulatory expectations.
• Collaborate closely with QA and QC teams on product release activities, investigations, deviations, and CAPAs.
• Implement corrective and preventive actions when required.
• Maintain accurate and compliant production documentation and batch records.

Equipment & Maintenance

• Oversee first-level preventive maintenance and cleaning activities for spray drying equipment and associated systems.
• Coordinate with maintenance teams to ensure timely troubleshooting and repair of equipment issues.
• Maintain equipment performance records and operational logs.

Health, Safety & Environment

• Ensure strict compliance with safety procedures, hygiene standards, and environmental regulations.
• Conduct safety briefings and participate in incident investigations.
• Promote a proactive safety culture across the manufacturing team.

Process Optimization

• Analyze production data and KPIs to identify opportunities for process improvements and energy optimization.
• Participate in technology transfers, process development activities, and scale-up projects.
• Drive innovations aimed at reducing manufacturing costs and improving process robustness.

Reporting

• Prepare and communicate daily, weekly, and monthly production reports and performance indicators.
• Ensure completeness and accuracy of operational documentation and reporting.

Profile

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Process Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in Spray Drying operations, ideally within the pharmaceutical, biotech, or fine chemical industry.
• Previous experience managing or supervising teams, with a strong interest in developing leadership responsibilities.
• Solid knowledge of GMP-regulated manufacturing environments.
• Strong understanding of spray drying processes, equipment, and process optimization methodologies.
• Proven problem-solving and decision-making skills.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management abilities.
• Fluent English required; French is a plus