Overview
A global pharmaceutical CDMO is conducting a search for a Site QA Head to lead quality operations at a key manufacturing site in Japan. This role reports into senior site leadership and oversees multiple QA and QC managers across manufacturing and quality functions.
The mandate is clear: elevate leadership capability, strengthen people strategy execution, and drive a high\-accountability quality culture within a regulated, complex production environment.
Key Responsibilities
Lead site\-level Quality Assurance across pharmaceutical and chemical manufacturing operations
Direct and develop multiple QA and QC managers and their teams
Strengthen people management, succession planning, and leadership capability within QA and QC
Ensure compliance with GMP and global quality standards while navigating operational realities
Partner with site leadership to balance regulatory rigor with practical execution
Drive continuous improvement across quality systems and manufacturing support
Serve as key contact for audits, inspections, and corporate stakeholders
Required Experience
Extensive QA leadership experience within pharmaceutical manufacturing or CDMO environments
Proven track record as Site Quality Head or senior QA leader in a regulated production site
Strong people leadership and team development capability
Experience operating in complex or evolving regulatory environments
Background in pharma and/or chemical manufacturing
Preferred Profile
Experience in CDMO environments highly valued
Comfortable working within structured systems while exercising judgment in gray areas
Strong execution mindset with ability to drive cultural and organizational change
Fluent Japanese; English communication ability for global interaction
Location & Work Style
Shizuoka
Primarily on\-site (remote flexibility limited)
Housing support available
Selection Process
HR screening interview
Site leadership interview
Final discussions with senior stakeholders
Compensation
Competitive executive\-level package (details shared confidentially)
