Manufacturing Operations Manager Big Pharma – Raleigh, NC

Are you a strategic leader with a passion for advancing manufacturing excellence in the pharmaceutical industry? We are seeking a Manufacturing Operations Manager to lead and optimize manufacturing processes at a leading Big Pharma company based in Raleigh, NC. This role offers a unique opportunity to drive operational efficiency, ensure compliance with stringent regulatory standards, and lead a high-performing team in a fast-evolving sector.

Lead Manufacturing Operations in a Growing Pharma Hub

Join a cutting-edge pharmaceutical company in Raleigh, NC, as the Manufacturing Operations Manager, where your expertise in manufacturing leadership, process improvement, and quality assurance will be pivotal to scaling production and meeting market demands. The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of GMP regulations, a proven track record managing large-scale pharma manufacturing, and the ability to foster a culture of continuous improvement. If you are ready to lead impactful operational initiatives and contribute to the future of medicine manufacturing, this is the role for you.

Key Responsibilities of the Manufacturing Operations Manager – Big Pharma

Operational Leadership: Lead daily manufacturing operations to ensure efficient, safe, and compliant production processes. Develop and implement strategies to optimize workflows, reduce downtime, and improve overall equipment effectiveness (OEE) within a regulated pharmaceutical environment.

Quality & Compliance Management: Maintain strict adherence to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and FDA regulations. Oversee quality assurance and quality control processes, ensuring all products meet or exceed regulatory and company standards.

Process Improvement & Innovation: Drive continuous improvement initiatives across manufacturing lines. Identify bottlenecks, implement lean manufacturing principles, and deploy automation or technology upgrades to increase productivity and reduce costs.

Team Leadership & Development: Manage, mentor, and develop a diverse team of manufacturing professionals. Foster a culture of accountability, safety, collaboration, and high performance, aligning team efforts with organizational goals.

Production Planning & Scheduling: Collaborate with supply chain, procurement, and planning teams to ensure on-time delivery of pharmaceutical products. Optimize capacity utilization and balance production schedules with inventory requirements.

Safety & Risk Management: Champion a proactive safety culture by enforcing rigorous health and safety protocols. Conduct risk assessments and implement corrective actions to minimize hazards and ensure workplace safety.

Budget & Resource Management: Manage manufacturing budgets, control operational costs, and allocate resources effectively to support production targets while maintaining financial discipline.

Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work closely with R&D, Quality, Regulatory Affairs, and Supply Chain departments to support new product introductions, scale-up activities, and process validations.

Regulatory & Audit Readiness: Prepare for and support internal and external audits and inspections. Ensure documentation accuracy and readiness to comply with regulatory scrutiny and certification requirements.

What the Client is Looking for in You

As the Manufacturing Operations Manager in Big Pharma, the client is seeking a highly skilled and results-oriented leader with a strong background in pharmaceutical manufacturing. You should be a strategic operator who excels in managing complex production environments while ensuring strict regulatory compliance and operational efficiency.

Proven Expertise in Pharmaceutical Manufacturing

The ideal candidate will have substantial experience managing manufacturing operations within the pharmaceutical or biotech industry. You should have a track record of driving process improvements, ensuring product quality, and meeting stringent GMP and FDA standards. Experience scaling production in a regulated environment is highly valued.

Strategic and Operational Excellence

You must be capable of developing and executing manufacturing strategies that optimize production capacity, reduce costs, and improve product throughput without compromising quality. The client values leaders who can anticipate challenges, implement lean manufacturing principles, and foster a culture of continuous improvement.

Strong Compliance and Quality Focus

Regulatory compliance is paramount in pharma manufacturing. The client seeks a professional with deep knowledge of GMP, cGMP, and other relevant regulations, with the ability to lead teams in maintaining audit readiness and ensuring all operations adhere to the highest quality standards.

Effective Team Leadership and Development

You should be a hands-on manager who inspires, mentors, and builds strong manufacturing teams. The ability to cultivate collaboration, accountability, and safety awareness across all levels of the production floor is critical to success in this role.

Data-Driven Decision Maker with Financial Acumen

Managing budgets, controlling operational costs, and utilizing data analytics to drive improvements are essential. The client seeks a leader who can translate performance metrics into actionable insights that enhance efficiency and profitability.

Collaborative Cross-Functional Partner

You will need to work closely with Quality Assurance, Supply Chain, Engineering, and Regulatory Affairs to support new product launches, technology transfers, and compliance initiatives. Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to navigate complex organizational structures are important.

Commitment to Safety and Risk Management

The client values a leader dedicated to fostering a safe working environment. Proactive risk identification, mitigation strategies, and adherence to health and safety standards are key attributes expected from the successful candidate.

FAQs About the Role – Manufacturing Operations Manager – Big Pharma

1. What are the key responsibilities of the Manufacturing Operations Manager in this role?

You will oversee all aspects of pharmaceutical manufacturing operations, ensuring efficient, compliant, and high-quality production. Responsibilities include managing teams, optimizing processes, maintaining GMP compliance, driving continuous improvement initiatives, and collaborating cross-functionally to support product launches and supply chain demands.

2. What qualifications and experience are required for this position?

The ideal candidate will have significant experience in pharmaceutical or biotech manufacturing operations, with a strong understanding of GMP and FDA regulations. Proven leadership skills in managing production teams, driving operational excellence, and implementing process improvements are essential. A degree in engineering, life sciences, or a related field is typically required, and advanced certifications or training in pharma manufacturing are a plus.

3. What leadership qualities are essential for this role?

The client seeks a hands-on, proactive leader who can motivate and develop teams while fostering a culture of safety, quality, and accountability. Strong problem-solving skills, effective communication, and the ability to lead change in a highly regulated environment are critical. You should be adaptable, detail-oriented, and focused on continuous improvement.

4. What challenges can I expect in this role?

Key challenges include maintaining strict regulatory compliance, managing production schedules to meet demand, minimizing downtime, and balancing quality with efficiency. You will also need to lead initiatives to adopt new technologies or processes while ensuring audit readiness and risk mitigation.

5. How will this role impact the company’s success?

Your leadership will directly influence manufacturing efficiency, product quality, and regulatory compliance, which are vital to the company’s ability to deliver life-saving pharmaceuticals on time. Effective operations management will support business growth, enhance market competitiveness, and uphold the company’s reputation for excellence.

6. What is the company’s culture and work environment like?

The company promotes a collaborative, safety-first, and innovation-driven culture. They value leaders who empower their teams, embrace continuous learning, and maintain the highest standards of quality and compliance. You will work in a dynamic environment focused on advancing healthcare through manufacturing excellence.

What Remuneration Can You Expect from This Job?

As a Manufacturing Operations Manager in the Big Pharma industry based in Raleigh, NC, you can expect a competitive and comprehensive compensation package designed to attract experienced operations leaders. The remuneration typically includes:

1. Base Salary

The base salary for a Manufacturing Operations Manager in pharmaceutical manufacturing varies depending on company size, experience, and the complexity of operations managed. Typically, annual salaries range from $100,000 to $160,000, with opportunities for higher pay in larger organizations or those with significant manufacturing scale.

2. Performance-Based Bonuses

In addition to the base salary, you may receive annual performance bonuses tied to key operational metrics such as production efficiency, quality compliance, cost control, and team leadership. These bonuses often range from 10% to 25% of the base salary, rewarding your contribution to the company’s operational success.

3. Long-Term Incentives

Some pharmaceutical companies offer long-term incentives such as stock options, restricted stock units (RSUs), or profit-sharing plans, which align your rewards with the company’s sustained performance and growth. These can significantly enhance your total compensation over time.

4. Benefits and Perks

You will likely have access to a robust benefits package including:

Health, dental, and vision insurance
Retirement savings plans with company match (401(k) or equivalent)
Paid time off and holidays
Employee wellness programs
Tuition reimbursement and professional development support
Relocation assistance (if applicable)

5. Signing Bonuses and Relocation Assistance

For highly qualified candidates, some companies provide signing bonuses or relocation packages to ease your transition to Raleigh, NC. These incentives can vary widely based on the candidate profile and company policies.

Total Compensation Potential

Combining base salary, bonuses, long-term incentives, and benefits, total compensation for a Manufacturing Operations Manager in Big Pharma can range from $120,000 to over $180,000 annually, with potential for growth as you demonstrate impact in the role.

How to Apply

If you are an experienced operations leader with a strong background in pharmaceutical manufacturing and a passion for driving operational excellence, we invite you to apply for the Manufacturing Operations Manager role in Raleigh, NC. This is a significant opportunity to lead manufacturing operations, ensure regulatory compliance, and optimize production processes within a leading Big Pharma company.

To apply, please submit your resume along with a cover letter highlighting your experience in pharmaceutical manufacturing management, process optimization, team leadership, and compliance with industry regulations. Emphasize your success in improving operational efficiency, managing cross-functional teams, and delivering quality products in a regulated environment.

This role offers a rewarding career path where you will play a critical role in shaping manufacturing strategies, enhancing operational performance, and supporting the company’s growth in a highly competitive and regulated market. Apply today to take the next step in your career as a Manufacturing Operations Manager in Big Pharma!

For more information or to explore similar opportunities, visit our Big Pharma Recruiting Experts Page.

Job Category: Big Pharma

Job Type: Full Time

Job Location: Raleigh

Manufacturing Operations Manager Big Pharma – Raleigh, NC