Head of Global Quality Operations & External Manufacturing

About the role

We are seeking an experienced Interim Head of Quality Operations to lead global quality activities for an international pharmaceutical organization. This 6‑month full‑time assignment is based in the Greater Zurich Area and focuses on external manufacturing, product release and international supply compliance.

Key responsibilities

• Lead Quality Operations across manufacturing and external partner networks.
• Oversee CMOs, CDMOs, laboratories and other GxP service providers.
• Ensure GMP/GDP‑compliant manufacturing, release, storage and distribution of pharmaceutical products.
• Manage supplier qualification, quality agreements, audits and performance monitoring.
• Oversee batch review, batch disposition and product release activities.
• Maintain inspection readiness and support regulatory inspections and audits.
• Drive effective handling of deviations, CAPAs, change controls and quality risks.
• Support continuous improvement of Quality Management Systems.
• Partner closely with Manufacturing, Supply Chain, Regulatory Affairs and Technical Operations.
• Provide senior Quality leadership within an international matrix environment.

Required profile

• Significant experience in pharmaceutical or biotechnology Quality Operations.
• Strong background in GMP/GDP‑regulated environments.
• Experience with external manufacturing, supplier quality and audit management.
• Knowledge of batch disposition, product release and Quality Management Systems.
• Proven leadership experience in an international Quality organization.
• Ability to work effectively with CMOs, CDMOs and cross‑functional stakeholders.
• Master’s degree in Pharmacy, Life Sciences, Biotechnology, Chemistry or a related scientific discipline.
• Valid Swiss work permit or Swiss/EU/EFTA work authorization.

Required skills

• GMP
• GDP
• Quality Management Systems
• Batch disposition
• Product release
• CAPA management
• Change control