Operations Manager – Manufacturing Scale‑Up (Biotech)

About the role

We are seeking an experienced Operations Manager to lead the scale‑up of a highly specialised manufacturing operation that serves the global life‑sciences and vaccine sectors. This senior leadership position will shape operational strategy, drive growth and support international expansion within a regulated biotech environment.

Key responsibilities

• Lead the expansion of manufacturing capacity to meet rising global demand.
• Build, develop and manage a high‑performing production operations team.
• Ensure compliance with best‑practice standards and all relevant regulatory requirements.
• Oversee production planning, scheduling and delivery to meet customer, budget and quality expectations.
• Maintain stringent quality standards in a contamination‑free environment.
• Drive continuous improvement in efficiency, cost and overall operational performance.
• Provide operational and strategic input for business planning and international expansion initiatives.
• Support grant applications, reporting and financial management activities.
• Represent the organisation at international conferences, partner engagements and client meetings.

Required profile

• Minimum of 5 years senior operational management experience in a regulated environment.
• Degree‑level qualification in engineering, science or a business‑related discipline.
• Proven ability to manage end‑to‑end operations from shop‑floor execution to board‑level reporting.
• Strong leadership, people‑management and stakeholder‑engagement capabilities.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal and influencing skills.
• Strategic planning experience with strong commercial awareness.
• Experience in life‑sciences, biotechnology, pharmaceutical or medical‑device manufacturing is advantageous.

Required skills