Head of Maintenance

About the role

We are partnering with a global pharmaceutical manufacturer to find a Head of Maintenance who will define and execute the maintenance strategy for a large production site. The role oversees equipment reliability, technical operations, and continuous improvement across production, packaging, utilities and site infrastructure.

Key responsibilities

• Lead the maintenance function across production, packaging, utilities and site infrastructure.
• Manage preventive, corrective and predictive maintenance activities.
• Improve reliability, availability and performance of critical production equipment.
• Plan shutdowns, technical prioritisation and support equipment upgrades, line improvements and capacity expansions.
• Ensure all maintenance work complies with GMP, EHS and quality standards.
• Handle deviations, CAPAs, change controls and maintenance‑related investigations.
• Lead technicians, supervisors, planners and external maintenance partners.
• Develop spare‑parts strategy, maintenance KPIs, asset lifecycle planning and obsolescence management.
• Collaborate closely with Production, Engineering, Quality, EHS, Validation and Supply Chain.
• Support audits, inspections and customer technical reviews.
• Manage maintenance budgets, vendor contracts and contractor performance.

Required profile

• Strong leadership experience in maintenance within pharmaceutical, healthcare, FMCG, chemical or other regulated manufacturing environments.
• Proven ability to lead large maintenance teams in complex production settings.
• Deep understanding of GMP documentation, deviations, CAPAs and change control processes.
• Track record of improving equipment reliability, uptime and overall maintenance performance.
• Solid EHS mindset with experience managing contractors safely.
• Professional fluency in German and English.

Required skills

• Experience with CMMS (Computerised Maintenance Management System) platforms.
• Expertise in preventive, corrective and predictive maintenance planning.
• Asset lifecycle management and spare‑parts strategy development.
• Knowledge of GMP compliance and EHS regulations.