Manager Spray Drying Unit / API Production

About the role

We are seeking an experienced Manager for our newly built Spray Drying facility at the Couvet site (STA Pharmaceutical Switzerland, part of WuXi AppTec). The role is responsible for the high‑quality, on‑time delivery of spray‑dried dispersions, overseeing 24‑hour, 5‑day production operations and driving continuous improvement.

Key responsibilities

• Lead daily spray‑drying operations, monitor inlet/outlet temperatures, feed rates and moisture levels, and ensure production schedules are met.
• Verify product specifications, coordinate with QA/QC for sampling and testing, and implement corrective actions when deviations occur.
• Supervise, train and schedule operators and technicians, fostering a safe and collaborative work environment.
• Oversee preventive maintenance, cleaning, and accurate equipment logging for the spray dryer and auxiliary systems.
• Enforce safety, hygiene, environmental and regulatory standards, conduct briefings and incident investigations.
• Analyze process data to improve performance, energy efficiency and support trials for new formulations.
• Prepare daily/weekly production reports, maintain batch records and track key performance indicators.

Required profile

• Proven experience in spray‑drying operations within a pharmaceutical or API manufacturing environment.
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to manage a multi‑shift team.
• Solid understanding of GMP, safety and environmental regulations.
• Analytical mindset for process optimization and continuous improvement.

Required skills

• Spray drying operation
• Process monitoring and control
• Preventive equipment maintenance
• Batch record documentation