Automation Manager

Automation Manager (Industrial Automation & Systems Leadership)

Contract: Full-time / Permanent

Start: Immediately

Environment: Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Site

Overview

We are supporting a leading pharmaceutical manufacturing site in the search for an experienced Automation Manager. This position sits within the Technical Department and combines team leadership, operational automation oversight, investment project involvement, and compliance responsibility within a regulated industrial environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and coordinate all Process and Infrastructure automation activities
• Manage a team of 5 internal and external automation technicians
• Oversee maintenance, troubleshooting, upgrades, recording, and backup of AIS (Computerized and Automated Systems)
• Provide high-level technical support to Production and Maintenance, particularly for complex automated systems
• Drive equipment availability in collaboration with the Reliability Engineer
• Plan and supervise AIS maintenance operations and ensure proper reporting in SAP PM
• Develop functional architectures for automated systems and define subsystem interconnections
• Select automation components (PLCs, supervision systems, field networks)
• Lead automation activities across project phases — from concept through qualification and commissioning
• Contribute to investment and site improvement projects as automation subject matter expert
• Define and monitor the automation operating budget
• Create and update technical specifications
• Maintain and apply global automation standards
• Ensure compliance with HSE requirements and pharmaceutical regulations
• Ensure local integration of global automation and IT architectures

Required Profile

• Engineering degree or equivalent qualification in automated systems, industrial networks, or industrial IT
• Minimum 5 years of experience in industrial automation

Technical Expertise

• Strong expertise in industrial automation and industrial networks
• Advanced technical knowledge in:
• Automation systems
• Supervision systems
• Industrial IT and IT infrastructures
• BMS
• Ability to interpret P&ID (PIO) diagrams and conduct functional analysis
• Experience with project management tools and operational budget management
• Professional fluency in English
• Proven ability to lead and coordinate technical teams
• Autonomous, rigorous, and proactive
• Able to react effectively in urgent situations and make decisions
• Comfortable working cross-functionally with Engineering, Quality, HSE, and Purchasing

Working Conditions & Benefits

• RTT and 31 days of paid leave (pro-rated)
• Salary paid over 14 months
• Profit-sharing agreement
• Company restaurant, employee benefits scheme, transport support, parking
• Possibility of one remote working day per week

If this opportunity aligns with your background, please apply directly or send your CV to and I will contact you to discuss next steps.