Head of Engineering & Maintenance

This client focuses on diseases where the need for new medicines is high and the cost high. This multinational is known as one of world’s biggest generic drug manufacturers. In the Netherlands, the core focus areas are neurology and pulmonology and the marketing of products for rheumatological conditions.

The Head of Engineering & Maintenance will lead all engineering and maintenance activities at a complex pharmaceutical manufacturing site in Haarlem. This position requires a strategic leader with deep expertise in pharmaceutical production, regulatory compliance, and engineering best practices. The role focuses on ensuring the reliability and efficiency of technical equipment and facilities, driving continuous improvement, and aligning engineering strategies with the company’s long‑term objectives. Collaboration with cross‑functional teams is essential to maintain high standards of quality, safety, and operational excellence.

• Providing vision and direction for the engineering function, fostering innovation, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• Building and retaining a skilled engineering and maintenance team, ensuring strong talent development.
• Defining and implementing engineering strategies aligned with organizational goals.
• Managing departmental budgets, staffing, and project execution.
• Ensuring all production equipment, utilities, and facilities operate effectively and comply with GMP, FDA, and other regulatory standards.
• Driving process optimization, maintenance reliability, and introduction of new technologies.
• Overseeing supplier and contractor activities, safeguarding company standards and agreements.
• Partnering with Quality, Operations, Supply Chain, and EHS teams to deliver integrated engineering solutions.
• Sharing best practices and lessons learned across global sites.
• Implementing advanced technologies and engineering solutions to boost productivity and reduce costs.
• Applying Operational Excellence principles to achieve world‑class manufacturing standards.
• Maintaining strict adherence to regulatory requirements (cGMP, ISO, FDA, EMA).
• Leading audits and inspections, ensuring full compliance.
• Managing engineering projects from planning to execution, meeting timelines, budgets, and KPIs.
• Recruiting, training, and mentoring a high‑performing team.
• Promoting a collaborative, results‑driven culture that supports growth and innovation.

• At least 10 years of leadership experience in engineering within a highly regulated industry.
• Proven track record in managing capital and operational budgets.
• Strong background in maintenance within pharmaceutical or chemical production environments, with knowledge of GMP and EH&S regulations.
• Expertise in maintenance, facilities, and utility systems.
• Familiarity with continuous improvement methodologies and good engineering practices.
• Solid financial acumen and project management capabilities.
• Excellent leadership and people management skills.
• Strong understanding of regulatory standards and compliance requirements.
• Outstanding communication and stakeholder management abilities.
• Fluent in English; Dutch an advantage.

Apply to our vacancy for more information. Looking forward to getting in touch!