Job description
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 Requirements 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 Benefits 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)