Are you ready to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of pharmaceutical engineering and manufacturing? The Centre of Excellence in Sustainable Pharmaceutical Engineering & Manufacturing (CESPE) at Ghent University is seeking an Operational Manager to drive our ambitious goals forward.
Our Mission
CESPE, a collaboration between 20 research groups at Ghent University Association and industrial partners, aims to lead the way in sustainable (bio)pharmaceutical manufacturing innovations. As our Operational Manager, you will work closely with the CESPE Director, General Manager, Project Managers, and Communication Officer to support our objectives and diverse range of activities.
Key Responsibilities
- You coordinate the CESPE Academy, proactively developing a range of workshops, webinars, and other offerings that meet the needs of industrial partners. You also interact with both internal and external instructors.
- In close collaboration with the core team, you actively contribute to expanding the project portfolio of involved researchers and partner companies.
- You help engage CESPE researchers when potential opportunities arise (e.g., Flemish & European project calls, bilateral contract research, and services).
- Together with the General Manager, you ensure the financial management of CESPE and the core facilities.
- You share responsibility for interactions with industrial partners and ensure the continuity of partnerships.
- You are responsible for setting up and expanding new strategic research fields, such as mechanochemistry, particle engineering, and automation.
- You contribute to CESPE’s visibility through tasks including:
- Leading the Communication Officer
- Structuring the CESPE Conference and smaller events
- Representing CESPE at (inter)national congresses
- You work with the team to develop a future-proof operational strategy for the daily operations of the research facilities at the CESPE Innovation Accelerator.
Your Profile
- You hold a Master’s or Doctoral degree based on a dissertation in the fields of (bio-)engineering sciences, pharmaceutical sciences, veterinary medicine, or chemistry, or have equivalent experience.
- You have strong knowledge of and interest in the scientific domains within CESPE.
- You possess solid project management skills, are well-organized, and ensure timely delivery within budget.
- Knowledge of the technical requirements of a high-tech pharmaceutical production environment is an asset.
- You are driven and have the ambition to help develop a world-class expertise center in sustainable pharmaceutical production in collaboration with the team.
- You are familiar with or have experience in working with universities and industrial actors, such as (bio)pharmaceutical companies (a relevant network is an advantage).
- Experience in developing public-private project proposals is an asset.
- You have strong communication skills (both verbal and written) in at least English and Dutch.
- You are a team player who can work independently and in a structured manner within a complex organization.
- With a “get things done” attitude, you manage and follow up on your tasks and delegated assignments effectively.
What We Offer
We provide a 2 year contract, offering stability and opportunity for growth within our dynamic team.
Salary is determined according to scales WM1 to WM4 (for Master’s degree holders) or PD1 to PD4 (for Doctoral degree holders). More information about our salary scales is available.
Additionally, all Ghent University employees can benefit from a range of advantages, such as extensive training and development opportunities, 36 vacation days per year (for full-time positions), a bicycle allowance, eco vouchers, and more. A full overview of our employee benefits is available.
Ready to Make an Impact?
If you’re excited about contributing to the forefront of sustainable pharmaceutical engineering and manufacturing, we want to hear from you! Join us at CESPE and be part of a collaborative effort to shape the future of pharmaceutical innovation. Apply now to seize this opportunity to drive meaningful change in the industry.
Interested?
Apply through this link before the application deadline (March 10, 2025): https://jobs.ugent.be/job/Gent-Operational-Manager-9000/813330202/