Microbiology Manager

We are seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Microbiology Manager to lead microbiological quality control activities within a veterinary pharmaceutical environment. The successful candidate will oversee sterility assurance programs, environmental monitoring, and microbiological testing while leading the microbiology team and ensuring full regulatory compliance.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage and oversee all microbiological testing activities, including:
  • Sterility testing of pharmaceutical products
  • Bioburden testing of raw materials and finished products
  • Environmental monitoring of cleanrooms (air, surfaces, personnel)
  • Settle plates and active air sampling programs
• Ensure timely and compliant execution of media preparation and growth promotion testing (GPT)
• Review and approve microbiological data, trend reports, and laboratory results
• Maintain and continuously improve quality documentation, including SOPs, protocols, and test records
• Lead investigations related to out-of-specification (OOS) results and contamination events
• Ensure compliance with GMP, EU/HPRA/FDA regulatory requirements, and internal quality standards

People Management

• Lead, coach, and develop the microbiology team to ensure high performance and engagement
• Allocate workload, manage resources, and ensure appropriate staffing levels
• Conduct training, performance reviews, and competency assessments
• Foster a culture of quality, accountability, and continuous improvement

Regulatory & Audit Responsibilities

• Act as SME for microbiology during regulatory inspections and customer audits
• Prepare and deliver responses to regulatory and customer audit observations
• Lead audit readiness activities and ensure timely closure of CAPAs
• Ensure inspection readiness of the microbiology laboratory at all times
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives within the microbiology function

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree (or higher) in Microbiology, Biological Sciences, or related discipline
• 3-5 years' experience in a microbiology role within the pharmaceutical or veterinary pharmaceutical industry
• Strong hands on experience with:
  • Sterility testing
  • Environmental monitoring (including settle plates)
  • Bioburden testing
  • Media preparation and growth promotion testing
• Solid understanding of GMP and regulatory guidelines
• Experience in quality documentation and data review
• Proven people management or supervisory experience
• Strong IT skills, including experience with laboratory systems (e.g., LIMS), data trending, and electronic quality systems
• Demonstrated knowledge and experience in responding to regulatory and customer audits
• Strong analytical, organisational, and communication skills
• Experience in sterile manufacturing environments
• Knowledge of contamination control strategies
• Experience with audit management systems or digital quality platforms

What We Offer

• Competitive salary and benefits package
• Opportunity to work in a growing veterinary pharmaceutical company
• Supportive and collaborative team environment
• Career development and progression opportunities