Head of Microbiology

Life changing therapies. Global impact. Bridge to thousands of biopharma companies and their patients.

We are PCI. 

Our investment is in People who make an impact, drive progress and create a better tomorrow. Our strategy includes building teams across our global network to pioneer and shape the future of PCI.

Main purpose of the role

The holder of this role is responsible for leading the QC Microbiology team, managing all routine and non-routine activities with efficiency and compliance to Company, Regulatory, and Client requirements. They will oversee environmental monitoring across the site and drive best practices within this critical function. This position is based on-site.

Responsibilities

• Resource Management: Organise departmental resources to meet customer demand, monitor performance, and address potential shortfalls by proposing solutions to managers.

• Continuing Professional Development: Stay updated on the latest techniques, regulatory changes, and industry trends to maintain expertise and regulatory awareness.

• Microbiological Expertise: Provide expert guidance on microbiological activities within the laboratory and across site functions.

• Monitoring and Trending: Ensure all monitoring activities are completed on schedule, with timely trending and actionable trend reports that include up-to-date guidance.

• Team Leadership: Manage recruitment, training, appraisals, and disciplinary actions while fostering team morale and addressing issues proactively.

• Performance and KPI Management: Ensure the team consistently meets KPIs, deadlines, and targets through effective tracking, action planning, and cross-departmental support.

• Operational Training: Deliver Team Leader training and spend 50% of the time performing this accountability.

• Quality Delivery: Oversee accurate and timely completion of team activities, including analytical testing, data, documentation, and trending.

• Compliance and Investigations: Manage and approve investigations, DR/OOS resolutions, CAPA plans, and laboratory quality items.

• Documentation and Data Review: Prepare, review, and authorise technical documents and analytical data for accuracy and procedural compliance.

• Training and Development: Conduct team training, maintain training records, and manage development needs for both self and team members.

• Quality Systems and Continuous Improvement: Ensure adherence to quality procedures, promote a culture of improvement, and lead CI projects while mentoring the team.

• Client and Regulatory Engagement: Act as a technical expert during client interactions, audits, and regulatory engagements while assisting with new project introductions.

Requirements

• Proven supervisory experience in a pharmaceutical laboratory environment.

• Demonstrated ability to work effectively with external customers and clients.

• Strong understanding and application of cGMP.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

• Takes ownership of responsibilities and actions.

• Promotes collaboration and a supportive team environment.

• Shows initiative and forward-thinking in solving problems.

• Prioritises client satisfaction and maintains positive relationships.

• Effectively manages competing priorities in a dynamic work environment.

Benefits

At PCI, we believe that our employees are our most valuable asset. That's why we are committed to providing a benefits package designed to support your well-being and enhance your overall quality of life. Here's what we offer:

• Employer Pension: secure your future with our employer pension scheme (above statutory pension).

• Competitive Salaries: we offer competitive salaries that reflect your dedication and contributions.

• Generous Annual Leave: enjoy 25 days of annual leave, plus bank holidays.

• Family Friendly Benefits: enjoy a range of benefits designed to support your family life.

• Employee Referral Scheme: know someone perfect for our team? Refer them and receive £500 as our way of saying thank you!

• Staff Engagement: we value your dedication with recognition schemes and long-service awards.

• Health and Well-being: your health matters. Count on our support with generous sick pay, access to a 24/7 GP through our employee assistance program, mental health support, and life assurance up to 4 times your annual salary.

• On-Site Subsidized Canteen.

• Cycle to Work Scheme.

• Development Opportunities: invest in your future with our training programs, coaching opportunities, LinkedIn Learning, and further education options.

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Join us and be part of building the bridge between life changing therapies and patients. Let’s talk future

Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Statement:
PCI Pharma Services is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. We do not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, age, sex, creed, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, marital or domestic or civil union status, familial status, affectional or sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetics, disability, military eligibility or veteran status, or any other protected status.

At PCI, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) are at the core of our company’s purpose: Together, delivering life-changing therapies. We are committed to cultivating an inclusive workplace by holding ourselves accountable to the highest standards of understanding, fairness, respect, and equal opportunity – at every level. We envision a PCI community where everyone can belong and grow, and we strive to bring this vision to reality by continuously and intentionally assessing our people practices, policies and programs, marketing approach, and workplace culture.