Soft Services Manager - Cleaning & cGMP

A leading facilities services organisation is seeking an experienced Soft Services Manager to oversee cleaning operations within a highly regulated pharmaceutical environment. This is a senior operational role that goes well beyond conventional cleaning management. The successful candidate will have responsibility for cGMP cleaning, cleanroom cleaning, general facility cleaning and specialist cleaning services , ensuring that all activities are delivered safely, efficiently and to consistently high standards.

The role will involve managing an operational cleaning team, coordinating specialist contractors where required, overseeing resources and staffing levels, and working closely with the client to ensure agreed service requirements and performance standards are achieved. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced Cleaning Manager or Soft Services Manager looking to develop their career within a highly regulated pharmaceutical environment .

Key Responsibilities Take overall responsibility for the delivery of cleaning and soft services across the site. Oversee cGMP cleaning, cleanroom cleaning, general cleaning and specialist cleaning activities . Ensure all services are delivered in line with agreed service specifications, procedures and performance standards. Manage and allocate cleaning personnel to ensure appropriate staffing levels and effective service delivery. Develop and manage cleaning schedules, ensuring all planned activities are completed within required timescales.

Lead, motivate and develop a team of cleaning operatives. Coordinate and oversee external specialist cleaning contractors where required. Conduct regular quality inspections and audits to ensure consistently high standards. Identify service issues and ensure appropriate corrective actions are implemented. Ensure all team members receive appropriate training and understand their responsibilities and performance expectations. Maintain accurate records relating to training, cleaning activities, inspections, audits and compliance.

Ensure health and safety documentation, procedures and protocols are maintained and readily available. Ensure compliance with relevant health and safety legislation, including COSHH and risk assessment requirements . Support the development and implementation of risk assessments, method statements and safe systems of work. Assist with the procurement and management of cleaning materials, equipment and other operational resources. Monitor service performance against agreed standards and identify opportunities for continuous improvement.

Maintain effective communication with client representatives, contractors and internal management. Work as part of the wider management team, supporting associated facilities, services and maintenance operations . Maintain a strong focus on quality, compliance, customer satisfaction and continuous improvement. Pharmaceutical & cGMP Environment The successful candidate will be working within a highly regulated pharmaceutical environment , where cleaning standards and procedures are critical to site operations.

Previous experience of cGMP, cleanroom or pharmaceutical cleaning would be advantageous but is not essential. Candidates from other highly regulated environments who have strong cleaning management, quality and compliance experience will also be considered. Essential Requirements Minimum 2 years' experience in cleaning management or a comparable operational management position. Strong understanding of health and safety legislation . Good knowledge of COSHH .

Experience with risk assessments and safe systems of work . Working knowledge of ISO 9001 principles . Strong leadership and people-management skills. Excellent organisational and time-management abilities. Strong communication and interpersonal skills. Ability to manage multiple priorities within a demanding operational environment. A strong commitment to quality and compliance. Full UK driving licence .

Desirable Experience Previous experience within a pharmaceutical, life sciences, healthcare or other regulated environment . cGMP cleaning experience. Cleanroom cleaning experience. Experience managing specialist cleaning services or contractors. Relevant facilities management, cleaning, health & safety or quality qualifications. Personal Attributes The successful candidate will be: A confident and effective people leader . Highly organised and commercially aware. Quality and compliance focused.

Customer focused with…