Head of Quality | Pharmaceutical Manufacturing

Lead the Future of Pharmaceutical Excellence in Riyadh

We are seeking a visionary Head of Quality to spearhead our pharmaceutical manufacturing operations in Riyadh, ensuring the highest standards of quality, compliance, and regulatory excellence. This pivotal role demands a strategic leader with deep expertise in pharmaceutical quality assurance, control, and validation to drive operational efficiency, mitigate risks, and foster a culture of continuous improvement. If you thrive in a dynamic, high-stakes environment and are passionate about shaping industry-leading quality systems, we invite you to join our team and make an impact.

As the Head of Quality, you will oversee all facets of our Quality Assurance (QA), Quality Control (QC), and Validation functions, ensuring seamless alignment with global regulatory standards and local SFDA (Saudi Food & Drug Authority) requirements. Your leadership will be instrumental in maintaining cGMP (Current Good Manufacturing Practices) compliance while fostering innovation and operational excellence. This role is not just about adherence to protocols—it’s about setting the benchmark for quality in pharmaceutical manufacturing.

Key Responsibilities

In this dynamic and influential position, your responsibilities will include:

• Strategic Quality Leadership: Lead and mentor a high-performing team across QA, QC, and Validation, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and regulatory expectations. Foster a culture of accountability, transparency, and continuous improvement.
• Regulatory Compliance and Risk Management: Ensure full compliance with SFDA regulations and cGMP guidelines, while proactively managing risks through robust quality systems and risk-based approaches. Oversee all regulatory inspections, internal audits, and external assessments to maintain operational integrity.
• Quality System Excellence: Develop, implement, and continuously refine the Quality Management System (QMS) to enhance efficiency, reduce variability, and drive operational excellence. Lead the creation and maintenance of SOPs (Standard Operating Procedures), quality documents, and records to ensure accuracy, accessibility, and compliance.
• Validation and Process Optimization: Oversee comprehensive validation activities, including IQ (Installation Qualification), OQ (Operational Qualification), and PQ (Performance Qualification), to ensure processes meet predefined standards. Monitor and optimize laboratory testing, stability programs, and calibration activities to maintain product integrity and reliability.
• Deviation and Corrective Action Management: Lead the investigation and resolution of deviations, customer complaints, and OOS (Out of Specification) and OOT (Out of Trend) results through structured CAPA (Corrective and Preventive Action) processes. Ensure timely and effective responses to maintain product quality and regulatory compliance.
• Product Lifecycle Management: Oversee product release, rejection, and rework processes to ensure only high-quality products reach the market. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to address quality concerns and implement corrective measures.
• Performance and Metrics: Drive data-driven decision-making by monitoring key quality metrics, performance indicators, and trends. Utilize analytical tools to identify opportunities for improvement and implement actionable strategies.
• Employee Development and Training: Cultivate a skilled and engaged workforce by leading training programs, performance evaluations, and career development initiatives. Foster a collaborative environment that encourages innovation and professional growth.
• Continuous Improvement: Champion a culture of continuous improvement by identifying inefficiencies, implementing best practices, and driving operational enhancements across quality and manufacturing processes.

Qualifications and Experience

We are seeking a distinguished professional with a proven track record in pharmaceutical quality leadership. Ideal candidates will possess:

• Advanced Educational Background: A Bachelor’s degree or higher in Pharmacy, Chemistry, Biology, Chemical Engineering, or a related field. Advanced degrees or certifications in quality management (e.g., RAC (Regulatory Affairs Certification), CQA (Certified Quality Auditor), or equivalent) are a significant advantage.
• Extensive Industry Experience: Minimum 10 years of experience in pharmaceutical quality, with a strong focus on QA, QC, and Validation. Prior experience in a senior quality leadership role is essential, demonstrating a history of driving regulatory compliance, process optimization, and team development.
• Regulatory Expertise: In-depth knowledge of SFDA regulations, cGMP guidelines, and international quality standards such as ICH (International Council for Harmonisation). Familiarity with FDA (U.S. Food and Drug Administration) or EMA (European Medicines Agency) regulations is a plus.
• Quality Management Systems: Proven experience in designing, implementing, and maintaining Quality Management Systems, including ISO 9001, ISO 13485, or similar frameworks. Strong understanding of risk management principles and methodologies.
• Leadership and Communication: Exceptional leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills with the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels. Strong interpersonal skills to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams, including manufacturing, R&D, and regulatory affairs.
• Technical Proficiency: Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and ERP systems, with experience in quality-related software such as LIMS (Laboratory Information Management Systems), SAP QM, or similar platforms.
• Language Skills: Fluency in English, with the ability to communicate clearly in both written and verbal formats. Additional proficiency in Arabic is considered a strong asset.

This is an exciting opportunity to lead a critical function in a growing pharmaceutical organization. If you are a results-driven professional with a passion for quality, innovation, and regulatory excellence, we encourage you to apply and help us redefine standards in pharmaceutical manufacturing.