AVP VP Plant Head

We are seeking an accomplished Plant Head to lead Ajanta Pharma's largest US FDA-approved facility. This role involves overseeing end-to-end plant operations, managing a workforce of approximately 1,100 employees (600 on-roll and 500 contractual), and ensuring the highest standards of productivity, quality, cost optimization, and regulatory compliance. The position requires exceptional strategic and operational leadership with a strong background in pharmaceutical manufacturing under global regulatory frameworks.

Key Responsibilities:

• Strategic Leadership: Define and execute the plant's operational strategy aligned with corporate objectives and global regulatory standards.
• Operational Management: Oversee daily manufacturing operations, ensuring productivity, quality, and timely delivery of production targets.
• Regulatory Compliance: Ensure continual readiness for US FDA, WHO, and other international audits; maintain strict adherence to cGMP and safety norms.
• People Leadership: Manage a workforce of 1,100 employees, promoting a culture of safety, discipline, and performance excellence.
• Cross-functional Oversight: Lead enabling functions such as HR, IT, Purchase, and Commercial to ensure seamless and efficient operations.
• Financial Management: Oversee plant budgets (approx. ₹90 lakh annually), ensuring cost optimization and financial efficiency.
• Continuous Improvement: Drive initiatives in lean manufacturing, process automation, and digital transformation to enhance productivity and competitiveness.
• Stakeholder Management: Collaborate with senior leadership, regulatory agencies, suppliers, and external partners for operational excellence.
• Quality and Safety: Uphold best-in-class standards in quality, environment, health, and safety management systems.

Skills Required:

• Strong leadership and people management capabilities.
• In-depth knowledge of US FDA and international pharmaceutical regulatory standards.
• Proven experience in cost optimization, productivity improvement, and plant operations management.
• Strong financial and commercial acumen.
• Excellent communication, strategic planning, and stakeholder management skills.
• Demonstrated commitment to continuous improvement, automation, and operational excellence.

Qualification:

Graduate/Post-graduate in Engineering, Pharmacy, or related discipline.

MBA / PGDM preferred.