Microbial Fermentation Operations Lead

MSN Labs is the fastest growing research-based pharmaceutical company based out of India. Founded in 2003 with a mission to make health care affordable, this Hyderabad-based venture has 17 API and 8 finished dosage facilities established across India USA, Indonesia & UAE.

MSN Labs is an equal opportunity employer. Website : msnlabs.Com

Position Description :

The incumbent is responsible for the entire operations of our microbial fermentation plant. The primary objective of this position is to ensure maximum productivity, consistent quality, cost efficiency, and strict adherence to all safety and regulatory standards (cGMP, ISO, HSE). This role requires a dynamic leader with deep technical expertise in fermentation technology and a proven track record in managing large-scale manufacturing operations.

Responsibilities

Oversee all daily plant operations, including upstream processing (media prep, fermentation), downstream processing, quality control, maintenance, and logistics.

Plan and execute production schedules to meet targets and ensure timely delivery to internal and external customers.

Work closely with the Process Development and Engineering teams to scale up new products, optimize existing processes for cost-effectiveness and yield, and troubleshoot complex fermentation issues.

Champion a strong quality culture, ensuring all operations comply with relevant regulatory bodies and maintaining robust quality management systems.

Hire, train, supervise, and mentor a cross-functional team, fostering a high-performance culture, compliance and ensuring effective staff management.

Broad Specifications

Ph.D / M.Sc / MTech in Biochemical Engineering, Microbiology, Biotechnology or a related technical field.

Experience in manufacturing microbial fermentation based API's / Intermediaries / Recombinant proteins, peptides, enzyme catalysts for domestic and regulated markets is essential

15+ years managerial experience in a manufacturing plant with significant experience in industrial scale microbial fermentation (Eg 10KL+ vessel capacity)

Expert knowledge of fermentation engineering principles, microbial physiology, and aseptic techniques.

Proficiency in plant automation systems and data analysis for process monitoring and optimization.

Strong understanding of downstream processing techniques (e.G., filtration systems) is an advantage.

Ability to troubleshoot complex process, equipment, and performance deviations effectively.

Good written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across departments and with external partners.

A results-driven mind-set with a commitment to quality and continuous improvement.