Team Lead Downstream Processing

About the role

Lonza is hiring a Team Lead Downstream Processing for its Visp site in Switzerland. This is a fully site-based role where close, real-time collaboration is needed to manufacture medicines to the highest quality and safety standards. Relocation assistance is available for eligible candidates and their families.

Key responsibilities

• Lead the planning, execution and documentation of DSP manufacturing campaigns, ensuring safe, compliant and efficient delivery of production objectives.
• Provide technical expertise for DSP operations, including chromatography, filtration, UF/DF, bulk filling, process monitoring, technology transfers, validation and lifecycle management.
• Drive operational excellence through investigations, CAPAs, change controls, risk assessments and continuous improvement.
• Act as the DSP subject matter expert during customer audits, regulatory inspections, customer visits, capital projects, commissioning, qualification and start-up.
• Ensure manufacturing follows cGMP requirements, approved procedures and SHE, environmental monitoring and quality standards.
• Lead, coach and develop a team of Bioprocess Engineers, set objectives, manage performance and support talent development.
• Partner with DSP leadership and Shift Team Leads to optimise resource allocation, capacity planning and manufacturing support.

Required profile

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Biotechnology, Biochemical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Life Sciences or a related discipline.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in biotechnology, preferably in DSP operations.
• Previous leadership and people management experience preferred.
• Fluent English required; German highly desirable.

Required skills

• Strong technical expertise in downstream processing technologies: chromatography, filtration, UF/DF, viral clearance processes and GMP-regulated manufacturing.
• Demonstrated experience in technology transfers, process validation, investigations and continuous improvement.
• Strong communication, stakeholder management and problem-solving skills.

What we offer

• A competitive salary plus lifestyle, family and leisure benefits.
• An agile career and a dynamic, inclusive and ethical workplace.
• Compensation programs that recognise high performance.