Production Section Head (Pharmaceutical Manufacturing)

About the role

The Production Section Head leads the operational, organizational and technical management of all pharmaceutical production units, including manufacturing, packaging and internal logistics. The role ensures compliance with GMP standards, guarantees resource availability and drives performance, quality, safety and cost objectives.

Key responsibilities

• Coordinate production units (preparation, manufacturing, packaging) to ensure seamless workflow.
• Guarantee availability of materials, equipment and personnel, optimizing capacity and minimizing downtime.
• Oversee production activities in line with approved procedures, GMP, HSE and ISO standards.
• Validate batch records, manage deviations, non‑conformities and production incidents.
• Organize work schedules, approve leave, monitor performance and identify training needs.
• Promote a culture of quality, safety and accountability across all teams.
• Collaborate with Quality Assurance on deviations, CAPA, change controls and regulatory inspections.
• Lead continuous‑improvement initiatives (5S, Lean, Kaizen, SMED) and monitor KPIs.
• Participate in equipment qualification, validation and ensure proper use of PPE.
• Support the definition and implementation of team training plans in coordination with HR/Compliance.

Required profile

• Engineering degree or Master’s in industrial pharmacy, chemistry, process engineering or related field.
• Experience in pharmaceutical manufacturing or a similar industrial environment.
• Strong knowledge of GMP requirements and ISO standards (ISO 14001, ISO 45001).
• Solid understanding of pharmaceutical manufacturing and packaging processes.
• Proven leadership, decision‑making and problem‑solving abilities.
• Analytical, results‑oriented mindset with excellent communication skills.

Required skills

• GMP compliance and ISO 14001/ISO 45001 knowledge.
• Operation of pharmaceutical equipment such as granulators, blister machines and tablet presses.
• Proficiency with ERP systems, preferably Microsoft Dynamics AX.
• Lean manufacturing tools (5S, Kaizen, SMED) and continuous‑improvement methodologies.
• Understanding of HSE regulations and industrial safety standards.