Dan Jeffery

Interim Head of Quality Location: Europe (On-site, Mediterranean region) Contract Duration: 4–6 months Start Date: ASAP Industry: Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Day Rate: Competitive, dependent on experience The Opportunity We are supporting an established European pharmaceutical manufacturer in the appointment of an experienced Interim Head of Quality during a critical period of business transformation. The organisation is undertaking a significant quality improvement and remediation programme, with multiple workstreams focused on strengthening quality systems, regulatory compliance and operational performance. This is a high-impact leadership opportunity for an experienced interim professional to provide stability, direction and strategic oversight while the business transitions towards a permanent leadership structure. Key Responsibilities Provide interim leadership across a multidisciplinary Quality function encompassing QA, QC, Microbiology, Quality Systems, Validation and Compliance. Lead and oversee a comprehensive quality remediation programme, ensuring effective execution of multiple concurrent improvement initiatives. Manage ongoing product quality issues, including recalls, investigations and associated corrective actions. Work closely with external consultants and internal stakeholders to prioritise remediation activities and deliver sustainable improvements. Strengthen quality governance, operational processes and regulatory compliance across the manufacturing site. Provide leadership, coaching and stability to a large Quality organisation during a period of significant change. Support recruitment and organisational development across senior Quality leadership positions. Collaborate closely with executive leadership to provide visibility on remediation progress, risks and priorities. Establish a culture of accountability, transparency and continuous improvement. Candidate Requirements Essential Experience Extensive senior Quality leadership experience within pharmaceutical manufacturing, ideally in generics or a similarly regulated environment. Proven track record of leading complex quality remediation, turnaround or transformation programmes. Experience managing large, multidisciplinary Quality teams within a manufacturing environment. Strong working knowledge of GMP, regulatory inspections, quality systems and compliance requirements. Demonstrable experience managing product recalls, quality investigations and CAPA programmes. Previous experience operating as an Interim Head of Quality, Quality Director or equivalent senior leadership position. Excellent stakeholder management, communication and decision-making capabilities. Personal Attributes Confident, pragmatic leader capable of establishing credibility quickly. High emotional intelligence and the ability to navigate sensitive organisational challenges. Comfortable operating in complex, fast-moving environments. Hands-on leadership approach with the ability to balance strategic oversight and operational delivery. Strong relationship-building skills across executive, technical and operational teams. Additional Information Significant on-site presence required, typically 3–4 days per week. Candidates must be comfortable with regular travel or temporary relocation. Qualified Person (QP) status is not required. Additional European language skills would be advantageous but are not essential. Competitive contract rates available for candidates with relevant transformation and remediation experience. Why Consider This Opportunity? This assignment offers the opportunity to make a tangible impact within an established pharmaceutical manufacturer undergoing significant operational change. The successful individual will play a central role in restoring confidence, strengthening quality operations and creating a sustainable foundation for long-term regulatory and operational excellence.