Operations Director, Drug Product, Substance - Dundalk

Merck & Co IRL - Louth County - Dundalk Updated 24 August 2026
Pharma

Job description

Job Description Are you ready to lead at the forefront of Vaccine manufacturing? We have an exciting opportunity for an Operations Lead – Drug Substance & Drug Product to join our Site Leadership Team in Dundalk . This is a unique opportunity to play a critical role in the journey to commerciali s ation of a state-of-the-art Vaccine manufacturing facility—driving technology transfer, operational readiness, and cultural transformation while delivering high-quality vaccine products to people worldwide. In this role, you will lead end-to-end manufacturing across Drug Substance and Drug Product, partnering across the site and global network to shape strategy, build capability, and deliver operational excellence. Bring energy, knowledge, innovation to carry out the following: Serve as a key member of the Site Leadership Team , contributing to site strategy and execution Lead and develop cross-functional manufacturing teams across Drug Substance & Drug Product Drive technology transfer and commercial readiness for vaccine production Champion a culture of Safety First, Quality Always, and Inclusion for All Ensure consistent delivery across EHS, Quality, Supply, Cost, and People metrics Drive operational performance , including schedule adherence, release timelines, and product lead times Lead continuous improvement initiatives , embedding lean principles and right-first-time culture Own financial performance, including budget management and cost optimization Build and develop a high-performing, engaged workforce , supporting talent and career development Partner with global stakeholders to deliver on strategic priorities and site goals What skills you will need: Degree (Level 8 or higher) in Science, Engineering, or related discipline 1 0+ years’ experience in Pharma, Biotech, or Vaccine operational manufacturing 8+ years of leadership experience , managing high-performing teams particularly in Operations. Strong experience in technology transfer and operational readiness Proven experience leading cultural and operational transformation initiatives, embedding new ways of working Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams at site leadership level Deep understanding of cGMP, EHS, and regulatory environments Experience driving continuous improvement and operational excellence Strong financial acumen with experience managing budgets and performance metrics Experience engaging with regulatory agencies during inspections Preferred Experience Experience across Drug Product and/or Aseptic Manufacturing (highly desirable) Background in Virus Manufacturing Knowledge of viral containment and biosafety requirements Required Skills: Cost Optimization, Culture Strategy, Drug Product Manufacturing, Launch Excellence, Operational Excellence, People Leadership, Project Commissioning, Technology Transfer Preferred Skills: Vaccine Manufacturing Current Employees apply HERE Current Contingent Workers apply HERE Secondary Language(s) Job Description: We keep the patient at the very heart of all that we do and strive to find solutions and treatments for some of the world's most challenging healthcare needs. As an equal opportunity employer, we are proud to be a company that embraces the value of bringing inclusive , talented, and committed people together. Please don't hesitate to contact the Talent Acquisition Advisor assigned to this role should you need any support during our recruitment process. We are committed to flexible working where p

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