Senior Quality Supplier Manager

Hays Specialist Recruitment is now looking for a Senior Quality Supplier Manager to join the Global Supplier Quality Team for a 6-12 month contract assignment at AstraZeneca in Södertälje.


At AstraZeneca when we see an opportunity for change, we seize it and make it happen, because an opportunity no matter how small, can be the start of something big. Delivering life-changing medicines is about being entrepreneurial - finding those moments and recognising their potential.
The Global Supplier Quality (GSQ) organisation leads Supplier Quality oversight for externally sourced materials to ensure that they align with the AstraZeneca Quality Standard, are safe and effective and meet the required regulatory standards. We do this through execution of the key Pharmaceutical Quality System (PQS) and supplier management business processes, by experienced and qualified Quality Professionals.
This is a diverse and interesting role working with Suppliers, Contractors and a broad range of AstraZeneca sites and functions. You will collaborate with colleagues and customers across many countries and interact cross-functionally with supply chain, supplier relationship, technical and project roles. Some travel may be required along with a high level of independence for the role.


Key accountabilities


GSQ provides Quality oversight globally for approximately 1,600 supplier sites in AstraZeneca Operations. The scope of the organization includes outsourced API, Biologics CMOs, Direct Materials including Devices, Formulation and Packing CMOs, Critical General Services, Contract Laboratories, Certification of Materials and the global IT System for Supplier Management.
In this role, you will be responsible for assuring the quality of materials received by AstraZeneca from the designated supplier portfolio and will proactively ensure GMP and regulatory compliance during supplier related projects. You will be responsible for the Quality System oversight of Supplier related product quality complaints, change controls, deviation investigations, issue management and escalation, and Quality Agreements between AstraZeneca and External Suppliers; and the preparation and submission of Supplier Quality Risk Assessments, and support to Regulatory Agency inspections of supplier sites and site transfers. You will drive quality improvements at the supplier as part of a cross functional team
This role will also include the quality review and approval of Chemistry and Manufacturing Control (CMC) documents associated with changes or product establishment at suppliers.
Key to this role will be maintaining a high level of understanding of relevant production processes and quality systems.


Essential skills
Degree in a science / technical field such as Pharmacy, Biology, Chemistry, Engineering or equivalent experience
Broad experience with a minimum of 5 years relevant work experience in either the pharmaceutical operations environment or a pharmaceutical Quality Assurance role
Excellent oral and written communication skills
Strong demonstrated knowledge of cGMPs, Quality Systems and the pharmaceutical supply chain environment. Also, strong understanding of industry standards such as Pharmacopeia, ISO standards, etc.
Demonstrated experience working cross-functionally and leading significant improvement initiatives (e.g. project management skills)
Strong problem-solving skills
Strong negotiating/influencing skills
Ability to work independently under your own initiative.
Ability to travel nationally and internationally as required up to approximately 10% of their time.



Desirable skills
Experience working in a PCO/PET organization or Lean/Six Sigma training.
Multi-site / multi-functional experience - particularly within a manufacturing site environment.
Proven experience in Quality Assurance or combination of Quality and Technical.



AstraZeneca is an equal opportunity employer. AstraZeneca will consider all qualified applicants for employment without discrimination on grounds of disability, sex or sexual orientation, pregnancy or maternity leave status, race or national or ethnic origin, age, religion or belief, gender identity or re-assignment, marital or civil partnership status, protected veteran status (if applicable) or any other characteristic protected by law. AstraZeneca only employs individuals with the right to work in the country/ies where the role is advertised.