Microbiology Team Leader / Manager

We are supporting a growing, global pharmaceutical manufacturer in the appointment of a Microbiology Manager, who will be responsible for microbiological oversight, team leadership, and ensuring compliance within a GMP-regulated environment. The Role You will lead microbiology activities across the site, ensuring environmental monitoring, testing, and quality systems meet regulatory expectations. The role combines technical responsibility with team leadership and cross-functional collaboration. Key responsibilities include: * Leading and developing a microbiology team, including performance management and training * Overseeing environmental monitoring programmes across manufacturing areas and utilities * Supporting batch release through microbiological data assessment (EM, bioburden) * Leading investigations (OOS, deviations, excursions) and implementing corrective actions * Acting as the microbiology SME for site projects, including new methods, equipment, and processes * Reviewing and approving trend reports, technical documentation, and microbiological data * Authoring and reviewing SOPs, validation protocols, and reports * Supporting method development and validation activities * Collaborating with QA, production, and QC teams to ensure operational efficiency and compliance * Driving continuous improvement and quality culture initiatives Requirements * Degree in Microbiology or related scientific discipline * Extensive experience within a GMP pharmaceutical QC environment * Strong knowledge of USP, EU, and ISO regulatory standards * Hands-on experience with microbiological techniques, including environmental monitoring, bioburden, membrane filtration, LAL/endotoxin testing, and microscopy * Experience leading or mentoring teams * Strong technical writing skills (SOPs, investigations, reports) * Analytical mindset with the ability to interpret data and make sound decisions * Effective communicator, comfortable working cross-functionally