Director of analytical operations

Director of Analytical OperationsLocation: Craigavon, Northern Ireland & Dundalk, Republic of IrelandHours: 35 hours per week, Monday Friday. Business Unit: Almac Pharma ServicesOpen To: Internal and external applicants welcome to apply. Ref No.: HRJOB11637The OpportunityAnalytical Operations at Almac Pharma Services plays a critical role in ensuring the quality, safety and effectiveness of medicines for patients worldwide. Across our laboratories in Craigavon and Dundalk, our teams provide high-quality analytical testing and services that support drug product development, manufacturing, packaging and product release.Due to continued growth, we are now seeking a Director of Analytical Operations to provide strategic leadership across both sites, ensuring that our analytical capabilities, infrastructure and teams are fully aligned to the evolving needs of the business and our clients.This is a senior leadership role where you will be responsible for the performance, compliance and continuous development of analytical operations (Quality Control and Analytical Services). You will ensure that laboratories operate efficiently, safely and in full compliance with regulatory standards, while also supporting operational delivery and driving improvements in performance and capability.As a key member of the Pharma Services senior management team, you will help shape the strategic direction of the analytical function, leading initiatives that support growth, operational excellence and innovation. You will also play a visible role internally and externally, representing Almac in client interactions and contributing to business development activities.This opportunity would suit a strong, forward-thinking leader with deep analytical and operational experience who thrives in a fast-paced, regulated environment and is passionate about developing high-performing teams.Key responsibilities include:Leading Analytical Operations across Craigavon and Dundalk sitesEnsuring laboratories operate in compliance with regulatory and licensing requirementsDriving performance against operational, financial and quality targetsLeading strategic planning and continuous improvement initiativesSupporting client relationships and business development activitiesManaging analytical capacity, resources and investment aligned to business growthProviding visible leadership and fostering a culture of collaboration, excellence and learningSupporting global alignment and a one team approach across analytical functionsJoining Almac means becoming part of a fast-paced, growing organisation within a highly regulated industry. We offer a supportive and collaborative working environment, with excellent opportunities for learning, development and long-term career progression across the Almac Group.Our approach is simple we support, develop and reward our people, build fulfilling careers and together we advance human health. More information can be found here; Life at Almac (Links Not Allowed).What you need to be successfulTo succeed in this role, you will bring significant leadership experience within an analytical or laboratory environment, along with strong operational and strategic capability. You will be confident in leading teams across locations, driving performance and influencing stakeholders, while maintaining a strong focus on quality and compliance.We are particularly interested in hearing from candidates who have:A degree in an analytical or chemistry-related disciplineSignificant experience operating at a senior level within an analytical or laboratory functionStrong leadership experience, managing multi-site or large-scale teamsExperience managing budgets, resources and capital investmentExperience working in a regulated environment (e.g. GMP or GLP)A proven track record of driving operational excellence and continuous improvementDesirable criteria include:A postgraduate qualification in a related disciplineExperience supporting pharmaceutical development through commercial supplyExperience working within a CDMO environment or similar client-facing settingFurther informationFor further information on essential and desirable criteria, please review the job description attached to the online job posting. This role reports to the VP of Analytical Operations and has responsibility for Analytical Operations teams across both the Craigavon and Dundalk sites.The role will involve regular interaction with senior leadership, cross-functional collaboration, and participation in client meetings and strategic projects. Occasional travel between sites will be required.How to applyApply online and tailor your CV to outline how you meet the role criteria. Please upload your CV in PDF format where possible.Closing DateWe will no longer be accepting applications after 5pm on Sunday 26th July 2026RECRUITMENT AGENCIES PLEASE NOTE: Almac will only accept applications from agencies/business partners that have been invited to work on this role by our Talent Acquisition team. Speculative candidate CVs received or submitted directly to Hiring Managers will be considered unsolicited and no fee will be payable. Thank you for your cooperation.Skills:Analytical Chemistry cGMP manufacturing Operational Excellence Pharmaceutical Drug Products Senior Management Analytical Operations CDMOBenefits:Professional Development + Growth Staff Discounts Professional Coaching Relocation Assistance Wellness Programs Group Healthcare Scheme Pension SchemeWHJS1_NI