Head of Engineering

AstraZeneca is a global, science-led, patient-focused biopharmaceutical company that focuses on the discovery, development and commercialization of prescription medicines for some of the world’s most serious diseases. But we’re more than one of the world’s leading biopharmaceutical companies. We’re also a Great Place to Work.

This is a collaborative environment where people are empowered to push the boundaries of science and unleash their entrepreneurial spirit. Welcome to an inclusive culture that champions diversity and collaboration. Experience the benefits of lifelong learning, growth and development. There’s no better place to make a difference to medicine, patients and society – and there’s no better time to join our exciting journey to pioneer the future of healthcare.

Position Overview:

We are looking for a Head of Engineering for our new ADC Facility in Singapore, a ~$1.5 billion investment to support our broad and rapidly advancing portfolio of ADC’s. This role is crucial in ensuring the successful start-up of our new facility, critical for our innovative oncology therapeutics. This role involves overseeing the design, implementation, and maintenance of engineering systems and processes that ensure efficient, high-quality, and compliant manufacturing operations. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in biopharmaceutical engineering and a proven ability to lead complex projects and teams. S/He will foster effective cross-functional working relationships with site functions such as Manufacturing, MSAT, Supply Chain, HR, Finance and Quality as well as a number of global functions (Capital Engineering, Global Tech Ops, PT&D, Quality, Finance, IT, & Global Supply Chain).

The person in this role is a key member of the Singapore Operations Leadership Team and is responsible for ensuring that the site delivers on all relevant metrics and KPI’s associated with successful plant start up, new product introduction, regulatory approvals and on-going supply activities.

This role reports into the Client Lead, Singapore Operations. The role will be Singapore based, with some travel to Europe required during facility design.

Scope and Deliverables:

• Site Engineering includes Facility, Utilities & Equipment Maintenance, Equipment Validation, Computerised Systems, Metrology and Capital Budget management.

• Strategic Planning: Develop and implement long-term engineering strategies that align with the facility’s objectives and AstraZeneca’s overall business goals. Ensure that infrastructure and systems support current and future ADC production needs.

• Project Management: Lead and manage engineering projects, including the design, installation, and validation of new equipment and processes. Ensure projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the required standards.

• Operational Support: Oversee the maintenance and continuous improvement of all engineering systems, including utilities, equipment, and facility infrastructure. Ensure reliability and efficiency to minimize downtime and maximize production capabilities.

• Team Leadership: Build and lead a high-performing engineering team. Foster a culture of innovation, safety, and continuous improvement. Provide coaching and development opportunities to team members.

• Compliance and Quality: Ensure all engineering activities comply with regulatory requirements and quality standards. Collaborate with Quality Assurance and Regulatory Affairs to support audits and inspections.

• Innovation and Improvement: Drive innovation and process improvements within the engineering function. Implement best practices and new technologies to enhance manufacturing efficiency and capability.

• Collaboration: Work closely with Manufacturing, Quality, Supply Chain, and MSAT teams to ensure seamless integration of engineering solutions into production processes.

• Budget & Resources: Supporting the development of budget and resource plans to ensure that program objectives are met.

• Risk Management: Identifying and mitigating risks that could impact on the successful start up of the facility, and developing contingency plans as needed.

Essential Requirements:

• Extensive experience in a biopharmaceutical or pharmaceutical company in engineering management within the biopharmaceutical or related industry, experience in new facility start up is an advantage.

• Extensive knowledge of engineering principles, project management, and regulatory requirements in a GMP environment.

• Proven track record of leading successful engineering projects and teams.

• Innovative, with strong focus and proven experience in delivering continuous improvement through the use of the latest process excellence tools.

• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills with experience in a matrix environment.

• Proven ability to analyze complex data and make strategic decisions.

• Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.

• Demonstrated ability to manage both tactically and strategically, to prepare contingency plans and ensure execution of plans

• Sound judgment and comfortable operating in a challenging, fast-paced and sometimes ambiguous environment.

• Knowledge of regulatory requirements for clinical and commercial biopharmaceutical facilities.

• Demonstrated leadership skills in developing, motivating, and organizing high performing work groups in the biotechnology / pharmaceutical industry.

• Excellent communication skills—both upwards and downwards and outside the company. Ability to lead and communicate orally, in written documents, and in formal presentations is required

We would like you to have:

• Undergraduate degree in an Engineering discipline.

• Advanced degree (Masters, PhD, MBA) is an advantage.

This role presents a unique opportunity to lead and shape the future of AstraZeneca's ADC ambitions in a dynamic and evolving environment. If you possess the requisite expertise and are eager to take on this challenge, we invite you to apply and join our innovative and ambitious team at AstraZeneca.

Date Posted

Closing Date

AstraZeneca embraces diversity and equality of opportunity.  We are committed to building an inclusive and diverse team representing all backgrounds, with as wide a range of perspectives as possible, and harnessing industry-leading skills.  We believe that the more inclusive we are, the better our work will be.  We welcome and consider applications to join our team from all qualified candidates, regardless of their characteristics.  We comply with all applicable laws and regulations on non-discrimination in employment (and recruitment), as well as work authorization and employment eligibility verification requirements.