Director Scientific

• Full-time

We are SGS – the world’s leading testing, inspection and certification company. We are recognized as the global benchmark for sustainability, quality and integrity. Our 99,600 employees operate a network of 2,600 offices and laboratories around the world.

GLOBAL SCIENTIFIC & TECHNICAL CAPABILITY EXCELLENCE

• This is a Global Expert position overseeing the analytical service portfolio globally (including chemistry, microbiology, protein characterization, biosafety, and bioanalysis – for both pharmaceutical small and large molecules) to ensure that analytical capabilities are adequate to support the Business strategy.
• Provide scientific and technical guidance to Local, Regional and Global Teams to ensure that analytical capabilities are adequate across SGS Health Science operations to support the Business strategy – including:
  • Replication and harmonization of analytical capabilities.
  • Implementation of new analytical methods.
  • CAPEX proposals.
• As a member of the Health Science Management Team, contribute to the strategy and business development plan for the Business Unit by identifying and assessing new business opportunities (including innovative services, new segments, new customers, M&A targets).
• Provide end-to-end scientific and technical support for M&A activities in the analytical service industry (target identification, assessment, due diligence).
• Actively monitor market trends and keep abreast of scientific, technological and competitive developments to translate them into the business strategy and concrete business opportunities.
• Strengthen SGS visibility and position by participating in industry working groups and conferences.

TECHNICAL SUPPORT TO SALES & BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

• Coordinate technical exchanges and analytical capability transfers across the global Health Science Network to maximize cross-sales and promote continuous analytical capability development.
• Provide scientific and technical guidance to Local, Regional and Global Teams to assist Marketing, Sales and Business Development activities – specifically to promote SGS brand awareness and sale of analytical services.

Specific responsibilities:

• Provide expert guidance to internal (SGS Management, Health Science Network) and external stakeholders (Customers, Health Authorities) on all aspects of Health Science Analytical Testing services.
• Provide scientific and technical support to Local, Regional and Global Teams to assist in:
  • Evaluation of market and client needs.
  • Preparation of Business Case/CAPEX and subsequent implementation (method transfer/replication, validation/harmonization).
  • Key client requests and/or complex projects.
  • Content development for Sales & Marketing activities (presentations, brochures, articles and scientific publications).
• Deliver customer presentations and consultations when required.
• In collaboration with Global Quality Management, promote Quality Culture and Quality of operational service execution.
• At all times, adopt a safe behavior by exercising due regard for the health and safety of SGS employees and clients, in line with SGS policies and procedures.
• At all times, comply with SGS Code of Integrity and Professional Conduct.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Minimum 10 years’ experience in the Analytical Testing and/or Contract Research services to the (bio-)pharmaceutical industry.
• Solid understanding of CMC Drug Development (in Analytical Development, Quality Assurance/Quality Control, Manufacturing).
• Scientific background (PhD or equivalent level) in a discipline relevant for the Health Science business segment (pharmaceutical sciences, biotechnology, biochemistry, biology, chemistry, etc.).
• Additional degree in business is an asset.
• In-depth experience of Pharma GMP environment, drug development and CMC regulatory requirements.
• Ability to drive technical sales and new service development.
• Existing relationships with industry customers an asset.
• A self-starter able to mobilize and inspire teams with a ‘can-do’ attitude.
• Experience in project-oriented, multidisciplinary and multicultural environments.
• Fluent in English (written and verbal) – other language(s) would be an asset.

Required skills:

• COMMUNICATION SKILLS: Excellent communication skills and ability to explain complex topics effectively at all levels of the organization (especially Senior Leadership, Authority Officials, Key Opinion Leaders).
• INNOVATION & BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT SKILLS: Ability to think strategically and translate scientific and technological developments into business opportunities and new service innovations.
• LEADERSHIP SKILLS: Outstanding ability to foster collaboration and work effectively with multidisciplinary and multicultural teams.
• Hands-on, open-minded, and proactive team player.
• Ability to work under pressure.
• Flexibility to travel internationally (20%) is required.