Group Leader Analytical Development (Small Molecules)

Group Leader Analytical Development (Small Molecules)

Lonza

Visp, Switzerland

In this senior leadership role, you will lead an interdisciplinary Analytical Development team responsible for the implementation, development, optimization, and validation of analytical methods for small‑molecule products in a GMP‑regulated environment. In addition, the team provides analytical expertise and measurement support to process development and manufacturing teams, advising on analytical techniques, data interpretation, and method selection.

You will ensure that people, capabilities, and assets consistently deliver high‑quality analytical services, particularly chromatography techniques to internal and external customers, in line with agreed timelines, cost targets, and safety standards.

What you will do:

• Provide scientific and disciplinary leadership for a team of approximately 30 development scientists, project leaders, and laboratory technicians;
• Coordinates and optimizes the allocation of resources (e.g. personnel, equipment, laboratories, etc.) to meet project needs and customer expectations;
• Oversee the development, validation, transfer of analytical methods, and support of process development and manufacturing teams with a strong focus on chromatographic technique;
• Ensure full compliance with GMP, quality standards, and safety regulations across all development and production support activities;
• Manage project portfolios, budgets, timelines, and resource allocation to meet customer and business objectives;
• Act as a technical expert and key interface for internal stakeholders and external customers, including participation in audits and inspections;
• Drive continuous improvement, innovation, and operational excellence in analytical and chemical development processes.

What we are looking for:

• PhD or MSc in Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry, Pharmacy, or Chemical Engineering;
• More than 10 years of industrial experience in chemical and/or analytical development within a GMP environment;
• Strong expertise in chromatographic methods (e.g. HPLC/UPLC, LC‑MS, GC) applied to process understanding and optimization;
• You demonstrate creative problem‑solving, active listening, and strong communication skills, enabling effective cross‑functional collaboration and interdisciplinary teamwork;
• Demonstrated leadership experience managing and developing multidisciplinary teams in an industrial setting;
• Solid understanding of business processes, cost control, and customer‑focused project execution;
• Fluency in English; German proficiency or strong willingness to learn German.