Operations Manager

Key Accountabilities: Manufacturing & Operations Management Direct, plan and control all manufacturing operations to meet production schedules, product quality standards, safety requirements, and cost targets. Lead and develop the Production Management team to ensure reliable day-to-day operational oversight and staff performance. Ensure adherence to aseptic processing standards and sterile facility environmental controls. Manage all service providers and toll manufacturing contracts. Maintenance & Technical Systems Oversee the Maintenance Department and ensure all equipment, utilities and facilities are maintained to required operating and GMP standards. Ensure preventative maintenance programs, equipment validation/calibration plans, and plant reliability systems are executed effectively. Supply Chain & Materials Management Manage raw material sourcing, supplier performance, inventory control, cold chain/storage requirements, and finished goods release in collaboration with QA/QC and SCM teams. Financial & Cost Management Develop, manage, and control departmental operational budgets, including labour, consumables, maintenance, and utilities. Conduct product costing, cost reviews, waste reduction initiatives, and process efficiency improvement projects. Quality, Safety & Compliance Ensure operations comply with ISO 9001, cGMP, veterinary biological standards, biosafety regulations, and SOPs. Drive continuous improvement in aseptic technique, cleanroom behaviour, and process discipline. Strategic & Cross-Functional Collaboration Provide technical and operational input into new product introduction, scale-up, and technology transfer. Contribute operational data and performance reports to the Managing Director as required. Essential Knowledge / Experience (min 5 years): Management experience in sterile/aseptic manufacturing, preferably biopharma, vaccine, veterinary biologicals or biologics production. Demonstrated experience managing both Production and Maintenance teams. Strong technical/mechanical knowledge of facility utilities, cleanroom systems, and production equipment. Financial and budgeting experience including cost control and forecasting. Experience working in a regulated manufacturing environment (ISO 9001, cGMP, HACCP, or similar). Qualifications: Bachelors degree in Operations Management, BPharm, Biotechnology, Microbiology, or a related scientific/technical field. Additional management or business qualifications are advantageous. Key Skills / Attributes / Position Specific Competencies: Strong leadership and people development capability. Operational planning and project management. Critical thinking, troubleshooting and root cause problem-solving. Effective communication and report writing. Negotiation and conflict resolution. Competent in MS Office (Excel, Word) and ERP/MRP systems.

Location: Pretoria, ZA

Posted Date: 11/22/2025