Spherical Search has recently partnered with a well-established Analytical Testing and CRO services organisation specialising in inhalation and nasal drug delivery. The company works with a broad range of pharmaceutical, biologics, and device organisations on a global scale.
We are currently seeking an Associate Manager to join the team in an on-site role, based within a commutable distance of Cwmbran, Wales.
Associate Manager, Pharmaceutical Development
Role Details
* Job Title: Associate Manager, Pharmaceutical Development
* Business Unit: Pharmaceutical Development
* Team: Pharmaceutical Development
* Line Manager: Manager, Pharmaceutical Development
* Functional Report: General Manager
Role Overview
* Lead and manage a team of Senior Scientists and Pharmaceutical Analysts.
* Provide scientific and technical leadership to project teams and clients.
* Act as a recognised internal point of contact for problem solving within area of technical expertise.
Values & Behaviours
Act as a role model for exemplary performance aligned with the Company’s values:
* Respect and trust people
* Value each individual’s contribution
* Take initiative and develop full potential
* Promote teamwork and collaboration
* Act with openness, honesty, and integrity
* Behave ethically and responsibly, holding accountability to all stakeholders
Job Responsibilities
Job descriptions outline approximately 85% of responsibilities. Additional reasonable duties may be required.
Core Responsibilities
* Promote the Company’s best interests through professional and effective performance.
* Complete timesheets, expenses, training records, and appraisals in a timely manner.
* Maintain compliance with SOPs, QMS requirements, and data integrity standards (ALCOA+).
* Ensure confidentiality of company information.
* Maintain accurate, contemporaneous, and compliant records.
People Management
* Lead, manage, and inspire Senior Scientists and Pharmaceutical Analysts.
* Plan and allocate resources to meet project and customer requirements.
* Ensure team members are appropriately trained and competent.
* Conduct performance reviews, objective setting, and development planning.
* Support recruitment, onboarding, and training initiatives.
* Manage absence, wellbeing, and return-to-work plans with care and consistency.
* Support and deputise for the Head of Department as required.
* Foster a positive working environment that supports retention and engagement.
Science & Technical Leadership
* Provide scientific and technical leadership to internal teams and external clients.
* Deliver specialist training internally or externally as required.
* Act as a technical expert in data analysis, interpretation, and reporting.
* Maintain comprehensive experimental records and author/review formal reports.
* Contribute to publications, including peer-reviewed journals.
* Stay informed on emerging technologies and recommend adoption where appropriate.
* Act as an ambassador within the wider scientific and industrial community.
Quality & Regulatory Compliance
* Ensure work conducted under GMP meets all regulatory and quality standards.
* Maintain audit-ready training records for self and team members.
* Ensure timely completion of Change Controls, Deviations, and CAPAs.
* Promote a strong culture of compliance and data integrity.
Continuous Improvement
* Lead and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives.
* Identify and address inefficiencies in processes and workflows.
* Deliver improvement projects on time and in full.
Customer & Project Support
* Support project teams as a technical subject matter expert.
* Maintain and enhance client relationships throughout project delivery.
* Communicate project issues promptly and transparently.
* Ensure high-quality data presentation and reporting standards.
* Present technical results clearly to internal and external stakeholders.
Health, Safety & Environment
* Act as a role model for health, safety, and environmental best practice.
* Ensure risk assessments, COSHH compliance, and safe working practices.
* Ensure incidents are logged, investigated, and corrective actions implemented.
* Promote continuous improvement in safety standards.
Systems, Processes & Facilities
* Implement and maintain quality systems and technical procedures.
* Author and review SOPs within area of expertise.
* Ensure effective use of IT systems and prompt issue escalation.
* Support laboratory, equipment, and facility management activities.
Role Context & Collaboration
* Collaborate cross-functionally on resource planning, training, safety, and facilities.
* Communicate effectively with customers regarding project progress and issue resolution.
Scope
* Direct Reports: Senior Scientists and Pharmaceutical Analysts
* Facilities: Laboratory ownership and oversight (shared)
* Equipment: Formulation and product processing assets
* Financial Responsibility: None
Working Arrangements
* Location: Office and laboratory based (laboratory presence encouraged)
* Hours: 37.5 hours per week, Monday–Friday (09:00–17:00 core hours)
* Travel: Up to 10% for training, inter-site support, or customer engagement
* Flexibility: Occasional evening or weekend work by prior agreement
Education, Experience & Skills
Education
* Degree in science, pharmacy, or a related discipline (2:1 or above preferred)
Experience & Skills
* Experience in inhalation or respiratory product development or research
* Strong understanding of GMP, ICH, and COSHH requirements
* Proven people leadership and team management experience
* Strong technical expertise within a specialist scientific field
* Excellent communication, influencing, and stakeholder management skills
* Highly organised, data-driven, and adaptable in fast-paced environments
Training & Development
* Six Sigma training desirable
* Management training preferred
Licences/Certifications
* None required