We are seeking an Assistant Production Manager (APM) to support production activities at our Pirbright, UK manufacturing site. The role ensures efficient, compliant and safe large‑scale production of FMD and BTV antigens and final product, working within EU, UK, GMP, biosafety and HSE standards. The APM will oversee daily production operations, lead teams, optimise processes and support the Head of Production to maintain high productivity and regulatory compliance. This is a fixed‑term contract until 31 December 2027. It is based at the Pirbright manufacturing site and requires full‑time onsite attendance.
Production & Operational Excellence
* Ensure production departments operate efficiently and in full compliance with biosafety, GMP, HSE and statutory requirements.
* Manage and develop staff, deputising for the Head of Production when required.
* Lead process improvements, addressing inefficiencies and implementing corrective actions.
* Oversee equipment, business processes and training within your scope.
Cross‑Functional Collaboration
* Coordinate daily activities with Production, QA, MSAT and other departments to ensure smooth production flow.
* Strengthen relationships with internal and external stakeholders, promoting quality assurance and operational efficiency.
* Act as client project manager for CAPEX‑related activities impacting production readiness.
Area Management
* Plan and execute shift‑based work, cover holiday/sickness planning and coordinate staff exchanges between areas.
* Manage cost centres and annual budgeting for assigned areas.
* Own end‑to‑end batch scheduling, ensuring timely batch close‑out (target: within 12 weeks).
* Coordinate maintenance, validation and production scheduling to minimise downtime.
Continuous Improvement
* Lead or support tier meetings and ensure timely execution of assigned actions.
* Drive business process excellence (BPE) initiatives and lead improvement projects.
* Apply project management methodologies to deliver initiatives on time, within scope and budget.
Biosafety & EHS
* Ensure all biosafety rules are followed and required reporting/communication is completed.
* Investigate EHS incidents, conduct risk assessments and complete all mandatory H&S training.
Finance & GMP
* Monitor departmental budgets, investigate variances and approve invoices.
* Ensure readiness for audits and lead required activities during internal/external inspections.
* Manage change controls, CAPA actions, deviation investigations and accurate data entry (LIMS/SAP/GBS).
Qualifications
* Degree in a scientific discipline preferred; equivalent experience also considered.
* Experience in a pharmaceutical or highly regulated production environment.
* Strong organisational, communication and people management skills.
* Ability to plan, prioritise and deliver against multiple operational deadlines.
* Experience driving continuous improvement and operational excellence.
* Good IT skills (MS Office, SAP/GBS desirable).
* Deep understanding of HSE, biosafety and GMP standards.
* Strategic thinking and strong leadership skills.
* A proactive, solutions‑oriented mindset with strong autonomy.
* Evidenced ability to work methodically with minimal supervision.
* Ability to challenge existing processes and promote a culture of improvement.
A Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check will be required for the successful candidate. Any offer of employment will be subject to satisfactory DBS certificate.
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