Chief Operating Officer (COO)

.Job Title: Chief Operating Officer (COO) Location: United Kingdom Reporting To: Board of Directors

About the Company:
A specialty pharmaceutical company focused on the development and commercialization of innovative liquid dosage forms designed to address unmet medical needs in patients with Medical Dysphagia. The company operates in high-impact therapeutic areas such as Cardiovascular, Metabolic, Neuropsychiatric, and Oncology.
The organization follows a partner-led commercial model, working with distribution partners in the United States (~80% of revenue) and across the UK/EU (~20%). Product development is executed through partnerships with CDMOs based in India. It operates a GMP-compliant manufacturing facility in the UK (approx. 110 employees) and a technical support center in India (approx. 30 employees). Positioned for strong growth, the company is expanding its global footprint and deepening its presence in current markets.

Job Purpose:
The Chief Operating Officer (COO) will oversee all operational, technical, and commercial aspects of the business. This senior executive role is responsible for ensuring smooth execution of strategy, driving operational efficiency, leading supply chain and manufacturing functions, and supporting commercial growth through external partnerships and internal excellence.

Key Responsibilities:
1. Strategic Leadership & Growth
Define and execute the company's growth strategy, including identification of new product opportunities in Medical Dysphagia and related liquid dosage segments.
Lead partnerships with commercial distributors in core and emerging markets to maximize market penetration.
Oversee new product development (NPD) through collaboration with CDMOs and R&D teams.
Evaluate and drive strategic initiatives such as in-licensing, co-development, and acquisitions to enhance the product pipeline.

2. Operational & Manufacturing Leadership
Manage manufacturing operations at the UK facility to ensure GMP compliance, cost control, and scalability.
Optimize procurement and supply chain strategies in collaboration with global and local partners.
Drive continuous improvement through lean principles, automation, and operational excellence programs.
Ensure successful product launches via effective technology transfers, regulatory filings (USFDA, MHRA, EMA), and coordination with partners.

3. Financial & Commercial Oversight
Collaborate with finance teams to manage P&L, budgeting, and cost optimization.
Expand commercial reach in key markets by strengthening distributor relationships and entering new geographies.
Monitor pricing strategies, commercial agreements, and profitability metrics.

4. Regulatory, Quality & Compliance
Ensure full compliance with global regulatory standards including cGMP, FDA, MHRA, and EMA.
Lead quality management systems, audits, and inspection preparedness across the supply chain.
Manage risks related to product quality, regulatory inspections, and pharmacovigilance.

5. Leadership & Team Management
Lead multi-functional teams across Operations, Manufacturing, Quality, Supply Chain, and Commercial functions in the UK and India.
Build and maintain strong working relationships with CDMOs, distribution partners, and other external stakeholders.
Foster a culture of ownership, accountability, innovation, and continuous improvement.

Qualifications & Experience:
Advanced degree in Pharmacy, Chemical Engineering, Business Administration, or a related field.
Minimum 15 years of leadership experience in pharmaceutical operations, manufacturing, and commercial strategy - with a focus on liquid dosage forms (e.g., oral solutions, suspensions).
Strong expertise in GMP manufacturing, international regulatory requirements, and supply chain management.
Demonstrated success in business development, CDMO oversight, and managing P&L.
Strategic mindset with excellent leadership, negotiation, and problem-solving skills.