Upstream Process Director (d/f/m)

Sandoz, of which Lek is also a part, is going through an exciting and transformative period as a global leader and pioneering provider of sustainable Generic and Biosimilar medicines.

Now as an independently listed company, Sandoz aims to increase its strategic focus, operate with greater agility, set clearer business objectives, enhance shareholder returns, and strengthen its culture for us, the Sandoz and Lek associates. This is an exciting time in our history, and by creating a new and ambitious path, it will provide a unique opportunity for us all, both professionally and personally.

As an Upstream Process Director (for upstream production process of biological drug substances) you will be responsible for the leadership, development and management of production processes in order to fulfill the production plans and to provide competitiveness, in accordance with the law, internal regulations, good practices and business objectives.

Join us as a Founder of our ‘new’ Sandoz and Lek!

Your key responsibilities:

Your responsibilities include, but not limited to:

• Responsibility for overseeing Biologics (Biosimilars) upstream production processes to ensure compliance with GMP, HSE and regulatory standards.
• Manage manufacturing staff to ensure strict adherence to safety, quality, and hygiene protocols.
• Implementation process optimization strategies in manufacturing to enhance operational efficiency, reduce costs, and ensure consistent product quality.
• Monitor and control inventory of raw materials and finished drug substances to ensure uninterrupted production and optimal stock levels in line with pharma industry standards.
• Analyze production metrics and QC data in the pharma context to ensure batch-to-batch consistency and identify improvement areas.
• Ensure compliance with pharma regulatory requirements.
• Develop and oversee the budget for pharma manufacturing operations to ensure financial efficiency and resource allocation.
• Integrate digital and smart manufacturing tech in pharma processes to leverage data analytics for predictive maintenance, real-time QC and enhance traceability.
• Promote sustainability in pharma manufacturing to advance the adoption of green chemistry, reduce waste and energy consumption, and support the development of sustainable drug products.
• Hire, onboard, develop and engagement of production team members.
• Translates organizational requirements into training plans.

What you will bring to the role:

• University degree in chemistry, pharmacy, economics or other equivalent degree.
• Fluent in English.
• Knowledge of Microsoft Office.
• Minimum 5 years of working experience (preferably in biologics production processes) and people management skills.

You’ll receive:

Employment at the most reputable employer in Slovenia offers Competitive salary, Annual bonus, Flexible working schedule, tailored to your needs, possibility to work from home, Pension scheme, Employee Recognition Scheme, Expanded program for the promotion of health in the field of physical, mental and social well-being (Energized for Life), Unlimited learning and development opportunities.

Possible job locations: Slovenia (Lendava)

We offer permanent contract with 6-month of probation period. You are kindly invited to submit your application in English language, including CV, by June 30th, 2025.

Why Sandoz?

Generic and Biosimilar medicines are the backbone of the global medicines industry. Sandoz, a leader in this sector, touched the lives of almost 500 million patients last year and while we are proud of this achievement, we have an ambition to do more!

With investments in new development capabilities, state-of-the-art production sites, new acquisitions, and partnerships, we have the opportunity to shape the future of Sandoz and help more patients gain access to low-cost, high-quality medicines, sustainably.

Our momentum and entrepreneurial spirit is powered by an open, collaborative culture driven by our talented and ambitious colleagues, who, in return for applying their skills experience an agile and collegiate environment with impactful, flexible-hybrid careers, where diversity is welcomed and where personal growth is encouraged!

The future is ours to shape!

Commitment to Diversity & Inclusion:

Sandoz is committed to building an outstanding, inclusive work environment and diverse team’s representative of the patients and communities we serve.

Join our Sandoz Network: If this role is not suitable to your experience or career goals but you wish to stay connected to hear more about Sandoz and our career opportunities, join the Network here: https://talentnetwork.novartis.com/sandoztalentpool

#Sandoz