Associate Director – Planning & Scheduling (Pharma)

About the role

The Global Clinical Supply organization is seeking an Associate Director to lead planning and scheduling activities for label production across its clinical supply chain. This senior position oversees daily label operations, ensures compliance with GMP, drives continuous improvement, and supports both local and global labelling initiatives.

Key responsibilities

• Verify that all components and bulk materials used in label production are correctly identified, not expired, and match work order specifications.
• Print, inspect, proof, and maintain accountability for clinical product labels.
• Manage label inventory, including disposal of expired materials.
• Serve as a Qualified Trainer and conduct periodic quality inspections during printing.
• Prepare shipments of labels to external packaging sites and receive bulk labels from vendors.
• Participate in equipment testing, upgrades, and ensure tasks follow GMP and batch record instructions.
• Implement process improvements to increase quality, efficiency, and customer satisfaction.
• Monitor production schedules weekly, monthly, and quarterly while managing headcount and utilization.
• Lead innovation and technology initiatives in label production.
• Evaluate employee performance, conduct development discussions, and complete year‑end reviews.
• Manage the team, resolve problems, and escalate issues when necessary.
• Lead local and global label projects, organize meetings, and delegate tasks.
• Author, review, and approve SOPs and job aids for packaging and labeling activities.
• Support internal and external audits and recommend efficiency improvements.
• Coordinate and train new employees.

Required profile

• Bachelor’s degree with at least four years of relevant experience, or a High School Diploma with six years of relevant experience in pharmaceutical operations, preferably clinical supply.
• Minimum two years of experience in a management or leadership role.
• At least six years of experience in supply chain or operations within the pharmaceutical sector.
• Strong ability to collaborate effectively with cross‑functional teams.

Required skills

• Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) compliance.
• Label production and printing equipment operation.
• Inventory management for labeling materials.