Head of External Sterile Operations

About the role

The Head of External Sterile Operations will lead the strategy, governance and performance of an external sterile manufacturing network for a highly regulated healthcare organization based in Switzerland. Reporting to senior leadership, the role ensures reliable supply, operational excellence and long‑term value from third‑party manufacturers.

Key responsibilities

• Define and execute the strategy, governance model and performance expectations for external sterile manufacturing partners.
• Lead a team of External Operations Managers and oversee senior‑level supplier relationship management across supply, quality, cost and compliance.
• Conduct executive business reviews, governance meetings and strategic discussions with external partners.
• Drive commercial, contractual and capacity negotiations and align capacity planning with supply‑chain and business leaders.
• Manage escalations related to supply disruptions, quality issues or performance risks.
• Collaborate with Quality, Technical Services, Procurement, Legal, Manufacturing and Supply Chain to ensure cross‑functional alignment.
• Support product transfers, launches, lifecycle changes and network optimisation initiatives involving external manufacturers.

Required profile

• Extensive experience in sterile operations, external manufacturing and supplier management within the pharmaceutical, biotechnology or similarly regulated environment.
• Proven strategic thinking combined with strong operational execution capabilities.
• Demonstrated ability to lead cross‑functional teams and manage complex negotiations.
• Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills at senior level.

Required skills

• Sterile manufacturing processes
• Supplier relationship management
• Regulatory compliance in pharma/biotech