Interim Head of Global Quality Operations & External Manufacturing

About the role

This interim position leads Quality Operations for an international pharmaceutical organization, overseeing external manufacturing, product release, and supply activities across multiple markets. The role is based in the Greater Zurich Area and lasts for a six‑month full‑time assignment.

Key responsibilities

• Lead Quality Operations across manufacturing and external partner networks, including CMOs and CDMOs.
• Ensure GMP and GDP compliant manufacturing, storage, distribution, and product release.
• 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.

Required profile

• Significant experience in pharmaceutical or biotechnology Quality Operations.
• Strong background in GMP/GDP‑regulated environments.
• Proven leadership in an international Quality organization.
• Master’s degree in Pharmacy, Life Sciences, Biotechnology, Chemistry or a related scientific discipline.
• Ability to work effectively with CMOs, CDMOs and cross‑functional stakeholders.

Required skills

• GMP compliance
• GDP compliance
• Quality Management Systems (QMS)
• Batch review and disposition
• Product release processes
• Audit management
• CAPA handling
• Change control management