Site Production Manager (Chemical / Pharmaceutical Manufacturing) (f/m/d), Calais

Our passion for science and technology drives our approximately 62,000 employees in 65 countries to address some of today’s toughest challenges and develop more sustainable ways of living.

In our rapidly changing and uncertain world, factors such as an aging population, chronic diseases, AI, climate change, and other megatrends have created an appetite for scientific breakthroughs that can make a positive difference across our global society. The pace of change will increase over coming decades as technologies evolve and converge in ways that fundamentally transform how we live and work. For us at Merck, change is not a threat but an opportunity as we have proven for over more than 350 years.

Tasks

• As part of a replacement following an internal promotion and within the context of a site transformation aimed at strengthening industrial performance, modernizing practices, and supporting skills development, the Calais Production Site (130 employees, Healthcare division) is seeking a Site Production Manager (f/m).
• Reporting directly to the Site Director, you will oversee all production activities (chemical processes) and be responsible for the site's industrial performance. You are a hands-on leader who brings teams together and motivates them to achieve objectives while driving the transformation of practices and ways of working. Managing an organization of approximately 75 employees, including 3 Production Managers, you will foster a demanding yet empowering work environment focused on safety, quality, and sustainable performance.
• You will drive departmental performance through rigorous KPI analysis and the implementation of appropriate action plans. You will lead the site's key strategic projects, ranging from continuous improvement initiatives and digitalization to CAPEX management, ensuring their successful operational deployment. You will actively champion change management to evolve organizational structures and working methods, enhancing operational effectiveness.
• As a member of the Site Leadership Team (CODIR), you will play an active role in shaping the strategic direction and roadmap of the Calais site, covering human, organizational, and technical aspects. You will ensure compliance with GMP quality requirements, EHS standards, and all regulations applicable to an industrial manufacturing site. Your team spirit, communication skills, and curiosity will be key assets for success in this role.
• You will join a dynamic international organization offering numerous career development opportunities and fostering stimulating collaborations with stakeholders across the globe, as well as within the France Cluster, alongside the Healthcare teams based in Semoy (45) and Meyzieu (69).

Profile

• Master’s degree or Engineering degree in Process Engineering or Production Engineering.
• Proven industrial experience of at least 10 years in functions such as Production, Engineering, Quality or Operational Excellence.
• Solid track record of at least 5 years as a Production Manager within an industrial manufacturing environment, ideally in fine chemicals, pharmaceuticals or other highly regulated and demanding process industries.
• Demonstrated ability to drive operational performance while successfully leading transformation initiatives.
• Sound knowledge of GMP requirements, EHS regulations and safety standards applicable to chemical manufacturing sites.
• Fluent in both French and English, with excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong interest in digital tools and Operational Excellence methodologies (certification would be an advantage).
• Autonomous and rigorous leader with a strong sense of accountability and governance.
• Strong team player with excellent interpersonal skills and a collaborative mindset.