About the RoleThe Head of Science & Technology will be responsible for establishing a new function from the ground up, focused on strengthening product formulations, improving process robustness, and driving scientific excellence across the business. This role requires an experienced, hands-on leader who can diagnose current challenges, set a strategic direction, and build the structure, capabilities, and resources needed for long-term success. It is an exceptional opportunity for a technically strong, strategically minded individual with the ability to influence, collaborate, and lead transformation in an evolving environment.ResponsibilitiesStrategic Leadership & VisionEstablish the Science & Technology function, defining its mission, operating model, and long-term strategy.Conduct a full diagnostic of existing product formulations, manufacturing processes, and technology gaps.Develop a multi-year plan for scientific capability development, talent acquisition, and resource requirements.Act as a key advisor to senior leadership on scientific and technical matters impacting product quality, performance, and operational efficiency.Technical & Scientific ExpertiseLead troubleshooting of formulation challenges to improve product stability, efficacy, and manufacturability.Evaluate and strengthen process robustness across production, identifying root causes of variability and implementing scientifically sound solutions.Support R&D efforts, leveraging pharmaceutical-grade methodologies and best practices.Champion scientific rigor in experimental design, method development, validation, and documentation.Cross-Functional Influence & CollaborationBuild strong relationships with Manufacturing, Quality, Regulatory, Operations, and Commercial teams to ensure alignment and smooth project execution.Provide scientific leadership to project teams, influencing without direct authority in a matrixed environment.Play a key role in shaping the company's technical culture, fostering collaboration, continuous improvement, and evidence-based decision-making.Organisational DevelopmentIdentify critical roles and skill sets needed for the newly established function.Develop job descriptions, lead hiring processes, and onboard new scientific and technical talent.Mentor future team members and establish a high-performance culture rooted in curiosity, accountability, and innovation.QualificationsTechnical & Professional BackgroundDegree in Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chemical Engineering, Formulation Science, or related discipline; advanced degree a strong advantage.Strong track record in troubleshooting formulation issues and improving process robustness.Experience in pharmaceuticals is an advantage.Leadership QualitiesDemonstrated ability to build a function, team, or capability from scratch, ideally in a scaling or rapidly evolving environment.Strong influencing skills with the ability to drive change without formal authority.High emotional intelligence, diplomacy, and interpersonal maturity; able to navigate ambiguity and evolving structures.Strategic thinker capable of balancing big-picture planning with hands-on technical engagement.Excellent communicator with the ability to translate complex technical concepts for diverse stakeholders.Other RequirementsOn-site presence is mandatory due to the hands-on nature of science and engineering activities.Comfortable operating in an environment with minimal existing processes, establishing structure where needed.Passion for innovation, and scientific excellence.