Associate Manager, Pharmaceutical Development

Spherical Search has recently partnered with a well-established Analytical Testing and CRO services organisation specialising in inhalation and nasal drug delivery
. The company works with a broad range of pharmaceutical, biologics, and device organisations on a global scale.

We are currently seeking an Associate Manager to join the team in an on-site role, based within a commutable distance of Cwmbran, Wales.

• Lead and manage a team of Senior Scientists and Pharmaceutical Analysts.
• Provide scientific and technical leadership to project teams and clients.
• Act as a recognised internal point of contact for problem solving within area of technical expertise.

Act as a role model for exemplary performance aligned with the Company’s values:

• Respect and trust people
• Value each individual’s contribution
• Take initiative and develop full potential
• Promote teamwork and collaboration
• Act with openness, honesty, and integrity
• Behave ethically and responsibly, holding accountability to all stakeholders

Job descriptions outline approximately 85% of responsibilities. Additional reasonable duties may be required.

• Promote the Company’s best interests through professional and effective performance.
• Complete timesheets, expenses, training records, and appraisals in a timely manner.
• Maintain compliance with SOPs, QMS requirements, and data integrity standards (ALCOA+).
• Ensure confidentiality of company information.
• Maintain accurate, contemporaneous, and compliant records.

• Lead, manage, and inspire Senior Scientists and Pharmaceutical Analysts.
• Plan and allocate resources to meet project and customer requirements.
• Ensure team members are appropriately trained and competent.
• Conduct performance reviews, objective setting, and development planning.
• Support recruitment, onboarding, and training initiatives.
• Manage absence, wellbeing, and return-to-work plans with care and consistency.
• Support and deputise for the Head of Department as required.
• Foster a positive working environment that supports retention and engagement.

• Provide scientific and technical leadership to internal teams and external clients.
• Deliver specialist training internally or externally as required.
• Act as a technical expert in data analysis, interpretation, and reporting.
• Maintain comprehensive experimental records and author/review formal reports.
• Contribute to publications, including peer-reviewed journals.
• Stay informed on emerging technologies and recommend adoption where appropriate.
• Act as an ambassador within the wider scientific and industrial community.

• Ensure work conducted under GMP meets all regulatory and quality standards.
• Maintain audit-ready training records for self and team members.
• Ensure timely completion of Change Controls, Deviations, and CAPAs.
• Promote a strong culture of compliance and data integrity.
• Lead and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives.
• Identify and address inefficiencies in processes and workflows.
• Deliver improvement projects on time and in full.

• Support project teams as a technical subject matter expert.
• Maintain and enhance client relationships throughout project delivery.
• Communicate project issues promptly and transparently.
• Ensure high-quality data presentation and reporting standards.
• Present technical results clearly to internal and external stakeholders.

• Act as a role model for health, safety, and environmental best practice.
• Ensure risk assessments, COSHH compliance, and safe working practices.
• Ensure incidents are logged, investigated, and corrective actions implemented.
• Promote continuous improvement in safety standards.

• Implement and maintain quality systems and technical procedures.
• Author and review SOPs within area of expertise.
• Ensure effective use of IT systems and prompt issue escalation.
• Support laboratory, equipment, and facility management activities.
• Collaborate cross-functionally on resource planning, training, safety, and facilities.
• Communicate effectively with customers regarding project…