Head of Downstream Processing at Visp

Head of Downstream Processing - 6 month Contract

Location: Valais, Switzerland

On-site: 5 days per week

Contract: 6-month assignment

About the Role

We are currently seeking an experienced Head of Downstream Processing (DSP) Manufacturing Operations to join a leading biopharmaceutical manufacturing site in Valais Canton.

In this leadership role, you will be responsible for overseeing DSP manufacturing operations and leading a multidisciplinary team of process engineers, manufacturing specialists, shift leaders, and biotechnologists. As a key member of the Manufacturing Leadership Team, you will drive operational performance, GMP compliance, continuous improvement initiatives, and the successful delivery of manufacturing campaigns.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead, coach, and develop a multidisciplinary manufacturing team, fostering a culture of accountability, engagement, and continuous development.
• Ensure safe, compliant, and efficient execution of DSP manufacturing operations while meeting quality, regulatory, customer, and delivery objectives.
• Drive operational excellence through KPI management, process optimization, problem-solving, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Manage manufacturing performance, resource allocation, workforce planning, and capacity requirements to support business needs.
• Develop and implement training strategies to ensure operational readiness and sustainable performance.
• Collaborate closely with cross-functional stakeholders, including MSAT, QA, USP Operations, Production Support, and Supply Chain teams.
• Act as the manufacturing representative during customer visits, audits, and regulatory inspections, ensuring a constant state of inspection readiness.
• Provide technical and quality oversight through change controls, risk assessments, GMP documentation, and compliance activities.
• Contribute to site-wide initiatives as a member of the Manufacturing Leadership Team, supporting overall operational and business objectives.
• Support facility expansion and capital investment projects, including commissioning, qualification, automation, and operational readiness activities.
• Serve as Deputy Head of Operations when required, ensuring leadership continuity and effective decision-making.

Required Qualifications & Experience

• MSc or equivalent degree in Biotechnology, Chemical Engineering, Bioengineering, Chemistry, or a related scientific discipline.
• Fluency in English and German.
• Minimum 10 years of experience within biopharmaceutical manufacturing environments.
• Strong expertise in GMP-regulated manufacturing operations and operational excellence.
• Proven experience leading multidisciplinary teams in a manufacturing setting.
• Experience managing KPIs, production performance, resource planning, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Excellent communication, leadership, coaching, and decision-making abilities.