Head of Pharmacy Manufacturing(UK Visa Sponsorship)

Job Description

About the Role

Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust is seeking an experienced pharmacy professional to lead its aseptic manufacturing service. The Head of Pharmacy Manufacturing will oversee the preparation and supply of sterile medicines, ensuring that production meets the highest clinical, regulatory, and safety standards.

This role is an opportunity to take strategic leadership of an advanced pharmacy manufacturing unit that supports the treatment of children through NHS services, international patients, and clinical research programs.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership and Service Management

The successful candidate will lead a multidisciplinary team of pharmacists, technicians, and production staff responsible for aseptic medicine preparation. The role involves guiding operational processes, promoting innovation, and maintaining a high-quality pharmaceutical manufacturing environment.

Manufacturing Oversight

The pharmacy manufacturing department operates under a Manufactured Specials licence, producing more than 10,000 aseptic doses annually. These medicines include chemotherapy treatments, CIVAS preparations, and other patient-specific sterile products.

Regulatory and Quality Assurance

You will ensure all processes follow national and international pharmaceutical manufacturing standards, including compliance with Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) and healthcare regulations. Close collaboration with regulators such as the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency is required to maintain quality and safety.

Strategic Development

The role will contribute to the development of the upcoming Children’s Cancer Centre, which will include a modern cytotoxic manufacturing facility. This expansion will require input into planning, service development, and future workforce capability.

Innovation and Digital Integration

You will support the implementation of digital systems such as closed-loop medication management and electronic prescribing initiatives aligned with national healthcare strategies promoted by NHS England.

Research and Development

Another aspect of the role includes participation in pharmaceutical research initiatives, clinical trials, and innovative dose design strategies that enhance paediatric treatment outcomes.

Working Environment

Working at Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust means joining one of the world’s leading specialist children’s hospitals. The pharmacy department is currently undergoing a transformation programme aimed at modernising infrastructure, improving patient care pathways, and expanding clinical research capacity.

Inclusive Workplace

The hospital is committed to building a workforce that reflects the diversity of the communities it serves. Staff are encouraged to participate in several internal networks that support inclusion and equality, including groups focused on ethnicity, disability, gender equality, and LGBTQ+ representation.

This commitment aligns with equality guidance from the UK Government Equalities Office and national public sector inclusion standards.

Essential Qualifications

Applicants should meet the following requirements:

• Registration with the General Pharmaceutical Council
• Postgraduate qualification such as MSc in Pharmacy Practice, PTQA, or equivalent experience
• Strong knowledge of Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) and Good Clinical Practice (GCP)
• Demonstrated experience in aseptic manufacturing including chemotherapy, CIVAS, and parenteral nutrition

Desirable Qualifications

Candidates with the following will have an advantage:

• Certificate in Clinical Pharmacy Practice or equivalent training
• Experience designing or commissioning pharmaceutical manufacturing facilities
• Project management experience

Key Skills

Applicants should demonstrate:

• Leadership and team development capabilities
• Effective communication with healthcare professionals and stakeholders
• Ability to manage organisational change
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Good presentation and reporting abilities
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office tools such as Word and Excel

Compliance and Regulation

All pharmaceutical manufacturing activities must comply with UK regulatory standards and quality assurance frameworks overseen by organisations such as the UK Visas and Immigration and the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency.

Applicants requiring Skilled Worker visa sponsorship are welcome to apply, and their applications will be assessed in line with immigration requirements.

Important Notes for Applicants

• Applications will be shortlisted based on how well candidates meet the person specification criteria.
• Vacancies may close earlier than the advertised date if a high number of applications are received.
• Candidates are encouraged to apply as soon as possible.