Chief Operating Officer

Job Overview

Reporting directly to the CEO, the Chief Operating Officer (COO) will be a key member of the leadership team, responsible for overseeing essential functions such as Operations, Supply Chain and IT which collectively represent over 60% of the workforce. The COO will provide strong leadership, ownership, and strategic direction to drive performance, exceed business objectives, and lead initiatives focused on achieving sustainable growth.

By collaborating closely with various teams, the COO will ensure that manufacturing targets are consistently met, while maintaining the highest quality standards. The role will also involve fostering effective cross-departmental collaboration to ensure production processes align with the company’s strategic goals. Health and safety will remain a top priority, with rigorous measures in place to protect staff wellbeing and reduce risks. Through effective leadership, the COO will balance operational excellence with a safe and supportive work environment

The role requires a strong strategic mindset to develop, shape, and drive accountability in executing the company’s rolling 5-year business strategy.
The goal is to build on existing successes and elevate the company to new levels of achievement, fuelled by an enterprising spirit and a deep commitment to advancing a better future for both animals and people.

Essential Criteria:

• Minimum of 15 years of experience in senior operational roles, with at least 10 years in a leadership capacity overseeing cross functional teams within sterile operations within the life sciences industry.
• Demonstrated success managing large teams in a complex, highly regulated environment, driving performance and compliance.
• Deep knowledge and understanding of regulatory authority expectations (MHRA, FDA, EU GMP) for aseptic manufacturing.
• Demonstrated success in developing and executing long-term business strategies in a large and complex Organisation, with a strong track record of driving growth, operational excellence, and financial performance.
• Experience in leading and managing transformational change initiatives that drive continuous improvement, efficiency, and innovation.
• Strong background in building, mentoring, and leading high-performance teams.
• Ability to develop leadership potential within the organization and drive a culture of collaboration and accountability.
• Strong understanding of financial management, budgeting, and resource allocation to achieve business objectives while ensuring cost efficiency and profitability.
• Proven ability to optimize operational processes, enhance productivity, and implement best practices across departments and functions.

Duration: Full Time, Permanent
Location: Newry

Additional Information:

• Applicants should be able to provide proof that they have a right to work in the UK at the time of their application. Applicants who are unable to provide this proof will not be considered.
• We regret that applications received after the closing date and time will not be accepted.
• We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of a Visa.

Contact: recruitment@norbrook.co.uk