A leading global organisation is seeking a Director of ASEAN External Manufacturing Operations (x1 vacancy) to oversee and elevate the end-to-end supply chain and manufacturing activities across the ASEAN region. This pivotal role offers you the opportunity to shape operational strategy, drive process improvements, and ensure seamless product delivery in a highly regulated industry.
What You'll Do
As Director of ASEAN External Manufacturing Operations, your primary focus will be on orchestrating seamless supply chain activities across multiple countries including Thailand while upholding rigorous quality standards. You will be at the forefront of managing contract manufacturers, optimising productivity, and fostering a culture of excellence within a diverse, multi-cultural environment. By nurturing your team's capabilities and collaborating closely with both regional colleagues and global partners, you will play a key role in achieving ambitious business goals. Your ability to analyse complex situations, develop actionable solutions, and maintain strong relationships will be essential for success in this multifaceted position. The role promises variety each dayranging from high-level strategic planning sessions to hands-on problem-solving with suppliersmaking it ideal for someone who thrives in an interconnected international environment.
The package includes base salary + guaranteed bonus + performance bonus + flexible working arrangement
- Oversee day-to-day external manufacturing operations throughout the ASEAN region to deliver on business plans, financial targets, and supply commitments.
- Manage the complete product supply lifecycle from production through distribution to local and regional markets, ensuring timely delivery and regulatory compliance.
- Drive initiatives focused on productivity enhancement, continuous improvement, and cost reduction across all aspects of purchasing, planning, manufacturing, importation, and distribution.
- Supervise contract manufacturers by monitoring their performance, ensuring adherence to quality standards (GMP), regulatory requirements, and maintaining robust supply continuity.
- Develop and mentor the ASEAN Operations team by fostering a collaborative culture that prioritises operational excellence and professional growth.
- Lead operational improvement projects with external partners to achieve measurable gains in efficiency and effectiveness.
- Coordinate new product introductions (NPI) and technology transfer processes within external manufacturing environments to support business expansion.
- Build strong relationships with Contract Manufacturing Organisations (CMOs) as well as internal stakeholders to facilitate smooth operations and shared objectives.
- Utilise data-driven analysis to identify root causes of operational challenges and implement practical solutions that align with broader business strategies.
- Ensure effective project management by balancing multiple priorities and deadlines in a dynamic international setting.
What You Bring
To excel as Director of ASEAN External Manufacturing Operations you will bring extensive experience from regulated industries where precision in supply chain management is paramount. Your background should include not only technical expertise but also proven interpersonal skills that enable you to build trust-based relationships with both internal teams and external partners. A history of successfully delivering operational improvementsparticularly those involving cost savings or enhanced productivityis crucial. You should feel comfortable navigating complex regulatory landscapes while remaining sensitive to cultural nuances across different markets. Your approach should reflect a commitment to collaboration: supporting your team's development while engaging constructively with stakeholders at every level. Familiarity with ERP systems like SAP as well as advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite will help you manage information flows efficiently. Above all else your strategic mindset will allow you to connect day-to-day operational details with overarching business objectives ensuring long-term success for the organisation.
- Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Operations Management, Engineering, Chemistry, Pharmacy, Veterinary Science or another relevant scientific or technical field is required; a Master's degree or professional certifications such as Lean Six Sigma, PMP, APICS or GMP are preferred.
- At least 10 years progressive experience in external manufacturing operations or contract manufacturing within pharmaceutical, animal health or similarly regulated industries is essential for this role.
- Demonstrated ability to manage relationships with Contract Manufacturing Organisations (CMOs), including overseeing their performance against contractual obligations.
- Proven track record of leading successful operational improvement projects that deliver cost efficiencies when working with external partners.
- Experience handling New Product Introduction (NPI) processes as well as technology transfers within an external manufacturing context is highly desirable.
- Familiarity with working in international or multi-cultural environmentsespecially within Emerging Marketswill give you an advantage in this position.
- Comprehensive understanding of contract manufacturing processes along with deep knowledge of quality systems (GMP) and regulatory frameworks is necessary.
- Solid grasp of supply chain principles including production planning, inventory management, logistics coordination and import/export regulations is expected.
- Exceptional analytical skills enabling you to interpret complex data sets, identify underlying issues quickly and propose effective solutions for operational challenges.
- Outstanding verbal and written communication abilities in English are required; proficiency in local languages such as Thai, Vietnamese or Bahasa would be beneficial. Strong negotiation skills are also important for managing external partnerships effectively.
What Sets This Company Apart
This organisation stands out for its unwavering commitment to operational excellence within the life sciences sector. With a reputation for fostering inclusive teamwork across borders it offers employees the chance to collaborate on meaningful projects that have real-world impact throughout Asia-Pacific. The company places great emphasis on professional development providing access to training opportunities designed to enhance both technical skills and leadership capabilities. Employees benefit from flexible working arrangements which support work-life balance while encouraging knowledge sharing among diverse teams. The leadership style here is notably supportiveprioritising open communication mutual respect and shared achievement over hierarchymaking it an ideal environment for those who value personal growth alongside collective success. As part of a global network you'll enjoy exposure to best practices from around the world while contributing directly to innovative solutions that advance healthcare outcomes across emerging markets.
Apply today by clicking on the link providedyour expertise could shape the future of supply chain excellence across Asia-Pacific.
Due to the high volume of applications, our team will only be in touch if your application is shortlisted.
Robert Walters Recruitment (Thailand) Limited
Recruitment License No.: . 1188 / 2551
