Microbiology & Contamination Control Manager
Permanent | Pharmaceutical / Biologics Manufacturing
An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced Microbiology leader to take ownership of both QC Microbiology operations and site-wide Contamination Control Strategy (CCS) within a growing pharmaceutical manufacturing environment.
This is a high-impact leadership role, combining team management with strategic influence across manufacturing, engineering, quality, and development functions.
The Opportunity
You will lead the QC Microbiology and Environmental Monitoring teams, while driving a robust, forward-thinking Contamination Control Strategy aligned with EU GMP Annex 1 and global regulatory expectations.
This is a highly visible role with responsibility for embedding contamination control into process design, facility development, and day-to-day operations, ensuring a proactive and compliant approach across the site.
Key Responsibilities
Leadership & Laboratory Oversight
* Lead and develop QC Microbiology and Environmental Monitoring teams
* Ensure delivery of microbiological testing across raw materials, in-process and finished product
* Maintain laboratories in a state of continuous GMP compliance and inspection readiness
Contamination Control Strategy (CCS)
* Own and continuously improve the site-wide CCS in line with regulatory expectations
* Embed contamination control principles into facility design, material flows, and operational processes
* Drive CCS as a dynamic, data-led system informed by risk and trend analysis
Technical Expertise & SME Leadership
* Act as site Subject Matter Expert for microbiology, aseptic processing, and cleanroom operations
* Provide input into deviations, investigations, CAPAs, and change controls
* Support audits and regulatory inspections as the microbiology lead
Cross-Functional Influence
* Partner with Manufacturing, MSAT, QA, and Engineering to embed contamination control into:
* Aseptic behaviours and operator practices
* Cleaning and environmental monitoring programmes
* Process design, tech transfer, and validation activities
Continuous Improvement & Risk Management
* Lead trending and analysis of microbiology and environmental monitoring data
* Drive initiatives to reduce contamination risks and improve performance
* Support structured risk assessments and implementation of robust controls
Training & Culture
* Deliver site-wide training on contamination control and microbiology practices
* Champion a culture of proactive risk identification and continuous improvement
About You
We are looking for a strong technical leader with a passion for contamination control and operational excellence.
You will bring:
* Significant experience within GMP pharmaceutical or biologics manufacturing environments
* Expertise in aseptic processing, environmental monitoring, and contamination control
* Proven experience leading and developing microbiology or laboratory teams
* Strong knowledge of global GMP regulations, including EU Annex 1
* Excellent stakeholder management and the ability to influence across a matrix organisation
A degree in Microbiology, Biological Sciences or a related discipline is preferred.
Why Apply?
* Opportunity to shape and lead a site-wide contamination control strategy
* Work in a cutting-edge biopharmaceutical manufacturing environment
* Play a key role in regulatory readiness and future site developments
* Visible leadership position with strong cross-functional influence
If you're a driven microbiology leader ready to step into a strategic and operational role, we’d love to hear from you.