Head of Production | Pharmaceutical | Permanent (£75,000pa - £90,000pa)
The Opportunity
We are looking for an accomplished operational leader to join a Pharmaceutical business and take ownership of production and warehouse functions, ensuring products are manufactured, stored, and delivered efficiently, safely, and to the highest standards.
Reporting into the senior leadership team, the Head of Production will be responsible for building a high-performing operation that consistently delivers exceptional service, supports business growth, and creates an environment where teams can thrive.
This role requires a visible leader who enjoys being close to the operation, developing people, driving performance, and creating a culture focused on accountability, teamwork, and operational excellence.
Key Responsibilities:
Leadership & Team Development
* Lead, inspire and develop managers and teams in a fast-moving operational environment.
* Create a culture that promotes ownership, engagement, collaboration and continuous development.
* Establish clear goals, expectations and performance measures across all operational areas.
* Coach and support operational leaders to build capability and strengthen succession planning.
* Foster strong communication and collaboration between departments.
Operational Performance
* Take overall responsibility for operational output, productivity, quality and customer service delivery.
* Ensure production targets are achieved while maintaining high standards of quality and efficiency.
* Monitor operational performance through meaningful KPIs and implement corrective actions where required.
* Identify opportunities to improve service levels, reduce waste and increase operational effectiveness.
* Maintain a strong focus on cost control without compromising quality or customer expectations.
Production Management
* Ensure production activities are planned and executed effectively to meet business requirements.
* Drive improvements in workflow, equipment utilisation and labour efficiency.
* Work closely with operational managers to maximise output and minimise disruption.
* Support investment decisions relating to machinery, facilities and operational infrastructure.
* Ensure production teams have the resources, training and support required to perform at their best.
Warehouse & Fulfilment Operations
* Oversee all warehousing, inventory and dispatch activities.
* Ensure stock is managed accurately and efficiently throughout the operation.
* Develop robust systems that support excellent order fulfilment and customer service.
* Continuously review warehouse performance and implement improvements to enhance productivity.
* Ensure facilities are organised, safe and operating effectively.
Continuous Improvement
* Drive a culture where operational excellence is embedded throughout the business.
* Challenge existing ways of working and identify opportunities for improvement.
* Lead initiatives that improve productivity, quality, safety and employee engagement.
* Encourage innovation and practical problem-solving across all operational teams.
* Use operational data and performance trends to inform decision-making and prioritise improvement activity.
Health, Safety & Compliance
* Promote a safety-first culture throughout the operation.
* Ensure all activities are carried out in accordance with company policies and relevant regulations.
* Maintain high standards of housekeeping, workplace safety and operational discipline.
* Support audit activity and ensure compliance requirements are consistently achieved.
* Champion best practice across all operational areas.
Strategic Contribution
* Act as a key member of the leadership team, contributing to wider business objectives.
* Support organisational growth through effective operational planning and resource management.
* Provide insight and recommendations on operational investment, infrastructure and future capability.
* Help shape the long-term operational strategy of the business.
* Ensure the operation remains agile, scalable and capable of supporting future demand.
The ideal candidate for this role will have the following background:
We are interested in speaking with experienced operational leaders who have successfully managed production, manufacturing, warehousing or fulfilment environments.
You will be a natural leader with the ability to motivate teams, improve performance and create a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.
Experience & Skills
* Significant leadership experience within production, manufacturing, operations or supply chain environments within the Pharmaceutical sector.
* Proven ability to manage large operational teams through periods of growth and change.
* Strong understanding of production processes, warehousing operations and performance management.
* Strong understanding and experience working under MHRA and GDP guidelines.
* Experience implementing operational improvements and driving measurable business results.
* Commercially aware with a practical and solutions-focused approach.
* Strong communication and stakeholder management skills.
* Ability to balance strategic thinking with hands-on operational leadership.
Why Apply?
This is an opportunity to join a organisation where you can make a genuine impact on operational performance and future business success.
You will have the autonomy to shape the operation, develop teams, influence strategy and build a best-in-class production and warehousing function.
Keywords: Head of Production, Head of Manufacturing, Head of Operations, Head of Warehousing, Head of Distribution, Operations Manager, Production Manager, Distribution Centre Manager, Fulfilment Centre Manager