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# Plant Manager (Pharma Manufacturing) – Raleigh, NC


Role Overview for Plant Manager (Pharma Manufacturing) – Raleigh, NC
JRG Partners, a premier HR recruiting firm specializing in executive search for the pharmaceutical industry, is actively seeking an accomplished and visionary Plant Manager for a distinguished client in Raleigh, North Carolina. This pivotal leadership role offers an exceptional opportunity to spearhead all manufacturing operations at a state-of-the-art pharmaceutical facility, ensuring the highest standards of quality, efficiency, and regulatory compliance. Our client is a globally recognized leader in pharmaceutical manufacturing, dedicated to producing life-saving medications and innovative therapies that impact millions worldwide. This role is not just about managing a plant; it’s about driving a mission.
As the Plant Manager, you will be entrusted with comprehensive oversight of the Raleigh site’s production, quality assurance, supply chain, engineering, and maintenance functions. Your strategic leadership will be instrumental in fostering a culture of operational excellence, continuous improvement, and unwavering adherence to Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP). This position requires a dynamic leader with a proven track record of success in complex pharmaceutical manufacturing environments, capable of inspiring large teams, optimizing processes, and navigating the intricate landscape of global regulatory requirements. You will be a key contributor to the company’s strategic growth, responsible for maximizing productivity, ensuring product integrity, and maintaining a safe and compliant workplace.
The Raleigh facility is a critical hub in our client’s global network, focusing on the production of a diverse portfolio of pharmaceutical products. This role demands a leader who can balance the daily operational demands with long-term strategic planning, including facility expansion, technology upgrades, and new product introductions.
You will be responsible for managing significant budgets, overseeing capital projects, and implementing innovative solutions to enhance manufacturing capabilities. The ideal candidate will possess an innate ability to lead by example, fostering an environment of accountability, collaboration, and continuous professional development for all employees. This is a chance to make a profound impact on a company that truly makes a difference in global health, leading a team dedicated to precision, quality, and patient safety.
Key Responsibilities of Plant Manager (Pharma Manufacturing) – Raleigh, NC
Strategic Leadership & Operational Management
Provide comprehensive leadership and strategic direction for all aspects of the pharmaceutical manufacturing facility in Raleigh, NC. Oversee production planning, scheduling, execution, and delivery to meet aggressive targets while maintaining the highest quality standards. Develop and implement strategies to optimize plant performance, drive efficiency, and achieve financial objectives.
Quality & Regulatory Compliance
Ensure strict adherence to all national and international regulatory requirements, including FDA (21 CFR Parts 210, 211), EMA, ICH guidelines, and other relevant cGMP standards. Champion a robust Quality Management System (QMS), oversee quality control, quality assurance, and regulatory audit readiness. Lead investigations into deviations, implement effective CAPA (Corrective and Preventive Actions), and promote a culture of quality-first.
Financial Performance & Budget Management
Manage the plant’s profit and loss (P&L) statement, develop and control operational budgets, and oversee capital expenditure projects. Identify and implement cost-saving initiatives without compromising quality or safety. Drive financial accountability across all departments and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) to senior leadership.
Continuous Improvement & Operational Excellence
Implement and champion Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, and other continuous improvement methodologies to enhance efficiency, reduce waste, and optimize manufacturing processes. Foster a proactive problem-solving environment and drive initiatives to improve yield, cycle times, and overall operational effectiveness.
Team Leadership & Talent Development
Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing team across various departments including production, quality, engineering, supply chain, and EHS. Foster a positive work environment that encourages collaboration, innovation, and professional growth. Conduct performance reviews, identify training needs, and build a strong talent pipeline.
Safety, Health & Environment (EHS)
Establish and maintain an exemplary safety culture, ensuring compliance with all EHS regulations and company policies. Implement robust safety programs, conduct risk assessments, and drive initiatives to continuously improve workplace safety and environmental stewardship.
Supply Chain & Inventory Management
Collaborate closely with supply chain and procurement teams to ensure optimal raw material availability, efficient inventory management, and timely delivery of finished products. Mitigate supply chain risks and optimize logistics to support production demands.
Technology & Innovation
Evaluate and implement new manufacturing technologies, automation solutions, and process improvements to enhance capabilities, increase capacity, and improve product quality. Drive innovation within the plant to maintain a competitive edge.
Stakeholder Management
Act as the primary liaison for the Raleigh site with corporate leadership, regulatory agencies, key customers, and external partners. Represent the company with professionalism and integrity.
Requirements for the Plant Manager (Pharma Manufacturing) – Raleigh, NC
Educational Background
Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Chemical, Mechanical, Industrial), Pharmacy, Chemistry, or a related scientific/technical field is required. A Master’s degree (MBA, MS) is highly preferred and will be a significant advantage.
Extensive Experience
Minimum of 15 years of progressive leadership experience within the pharmaceutical manufacturing industry, with at least 7-10 years in a senior leadership role such as Plant Manager, Operations Director, or equivalent. Experience leading large-scale, complex pharmaceutical manufacturing operations is essential.
Pharmaceutical Expertise
Deep and comprehensive understanding of pharmaceutical manufacturing processes, equipment, and technologies. Proven expertise in sterile manufacturing, biologics, API production, or solid dosage forms will be highly valued depending on the facility’s specific focus.
Regulatory Acumen
In-depth knowledge and hands-on experience with global pharmaceutical regulations, including FDA (21 CFR Parts 210, 211), EMA, ICH guidelines, and other relevant international cGMP standards. Demonstrated success in managing regulatory audits and inspections.
Leadership & Management Skills
Exceptional leadership capabilities with a proven track record of building, motivating, and developing high-performing, cross-functional teams. Strong change management, conflict resolution, and decision-making skills are critical.
Operational Excellence
Demonstrated success in implementing and sustaining continuous improvement methodologies such as Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma (certification preferred), or other operational excellence programs. Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
Financial Acumen
Solid understanding of financial management, including P&L responsibility, budget development, cost control, and capital expenditure management. Ability to interpret financial data and make data-driven decisions.
Communication & Interpersonal Skills
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex information clearly and persuasively to diverse audiences, from shop floor personnel to executive leadership and regulatory bodies. Strong negotiation and interpersonal skills.
Strategic Vision
Ability to develop and execute strategic plans that align with corporate objectives and drive long-term growth for the facility.
Location
Must be able to work onsite in Raleigh, NC, with potential for occasional travel as required.
Benefits & Perks Offered
JRG Partners understands the importance of attracting and retaining top-tier talent. Our client offers an extremely competitive compensation package designed to reward your expertise and contributions, including:

A highly attractive base salary commensurate with experience and industry standards.
Performance-based annual bonus structure tied to individual and company achievements.
Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans for you and your family, effective from day one.
Robust 401(k) retirement savings plan with generous company matching contributions to secure your financial future.
Generous paid time off (PTO) policy, including vacation, sick leave, and company-paid holidays.
Life insurance, short-term and long-term disability coverage.
Relocation assistance package available for eligible candidates moving to the Raleigh, NC area.
Opportunities for continuous professional development, training, and executive education to foster your growth.
A supportive, collaborative, and innovative work environment where your leadership directly impacts patient lives.
Access to cutting-edge technology and resources within a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility.
The chance to be a part of a stable and growing global pharmaceutical company with a strong commitment to quality and ethical practices.

How to Apply
Ready to lead a world-class pharmaceutical manufacturing operation and make a significant impact on global health? If you are a visionary leader with a passion for operational excellence and a deep commitment to quality and compliance within the pharmaceutical industry, JRG Partners invites you to apply for this exceptional opportunity.
Please submit your comprehensive resume and a compelling cover letter detailing your relevant experience and qualifications for this Plant Manager role. Your application will be handled with the utmost confidentiality.
Explore more opportunities in pharmaceutical manufacturing recruitment with JRG Partners and discover how your expertise can drive success.