Job Description
We are seeking a dedicated and sustainability-focused Production Manager to oversee operations in a dynamic environment.
The key responsibilities of this role include:
* Leading a team of technicians
* Coordinating all fermentation activities (upstream and downstream), encompassing troubleshooting, quality control, and assurance.
* Ensuring timely preparation of media for supply demands.
* Procuring and managing outsourced microbiological agents.
* Managing Health & Safety activities, including COSHH assessments and risk evaluations.
* Overseeing inventory management and developing strong supplier relationships.
* Implementing and maintaining a Quality Management System (QMS) to ISO standards.
* Conducting internal and external laboratory audits, identifying root causes of non-conformances, and implementing corrective actions.
* Cultivating existing customer relationships and establishing new connections.
* Managing budgets and billing activities.
This position requires the successful candidate to possess:
* A deep commitment to sustainability.
* Strong teamwork and collaboration skills.
* Excellent communication skills, including interpersonal and presentation abilities.
Qualifications and Experience
Candidates should hold:
* An MSc in Microbiology or a related field, accompanied by 2+ years of industrial experience in pilot-scale bacterial, yeast, and fungal fermentation.
* OR a BSc in Microbiology or a related field, coupled with 5+ years of industrial experience in pilot-scale bacterial, yeast, and fungal fermentation.
The ideal candidate will have:
* Proven expertise in coordinating pilot-scale fermentation activities.
* Direct experience in laboratory and people management.
* Strong customer relationship management skills.
* Proficiency in computer software, including databases, Excel, Word, and statistical packages.
* Excellent written and verbal communication skills, as well as strong interpersonal and presentation abilities.
* A proven track record of attention to detail, ability to work under pressure, and impartiality.
Additional Requirements
Candidates should have:
* Practical experience in fermentation (bacterial, yeast, and fungal) within an industrial or commercial setting.
* Strong microbiology skills.
* Hands-on experience with bench-top and pilot-scale bioreactors, with a focus on process optimization.
* Good communication and documentation skills.
* Experience working with SOPs and lab quality management systems.
* Experience collaborating with sub-contracted suppliers of microbiological materials.
* A strong focus on quality control and procedures for consistent material release.
* Ability to troubleshoot issues and think creatively.
* A collaborative mindset, comfortable working in a fast-paced environment.