Senior Quality Assurance Manager Job Vacancy in Dire Dawa, Ethiopia – Pharmaceuticals

Job Description

Position: Senior Quality Assurance Manager

Company: Novartis Ethiopia

Location: Dire Dawa, Ethiopia

Experience: 8+ years in pharmaceutical quality assurance

Education: Bachelor’s degree in Pharmacy, Chemistry, or related field; Master’s preferred

Employment Type: Full-time

Industry: Pharmaceuticals

Department: Quality Assurance

Salary: 250,000 – 350,000 SSP per month

Vacancies:1

Company Overview

Novartis Ethiopia is a leading global healthcare company dedicated to improving patient outcomes through innovative medicines, vaccines, and health solutions. With a strong presence across Africa, Novartis Ethiopia operates state‑of‑the‑art manufacturing facilities, research collaborations, and a robust distribution network that reaches hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies throughout the country. The company’s commitment to scientific excellence, ethical standards, and community engagement makes it a top employer for professionals seeking impactful careers in the pharmaceutical sector. As part of Novartis’ global mission, the Ethiopian branch focuses on delivering high‑quality products that address local health challenges while adhering to international regulatory requirements.

Located in Dire Dawa, a vibrant commercial hub, Novartis Ethiopia benefits from strategic logistics connections, a skilled workforce, and a supportive business environment. The organization actively participates in national health initiatives, collaborates with the Ministry of Health, and invests in capacity‑building programs that enhance the overall healthcare ecosystem. Employees enjoy a collaborative culture that encourages continuous learning, cross‑functional teamwork, and a shared passion for advancing health outcomes across Ethiopia and the broader region.

Job Overview

The Senior Quality Assurance (QA) Manager will lead the QA department, ensuring that all pharmaceutical products manufactured and distributed by Novartis Ethiopia meet the highest standards of safety, efficacy, and regulatory compliance. This role is pivotal in driving quality culture, overseeing validation activities, and managing audits across the entire product lifecycle. The successful candidate will work closely with cross‑functional teams, including Production, R&D, Regulatory Affairs, and Supply Chain, to implement robust quality systems that support Novartis’ commitment to excellence. For more information about Novartis Ethiopia and its career opportunities, visit https://ethiopiajobssearch.com/.

The position offers a unique opportunity to influence the quality strategy of a multinational pharmaceutical leader while contributing to the health and well‑being of millions of Ethiopians. It is an ideal role for seasoned professionals who thrive in dynamic, regulated environments and are eager to make a tangible impact on public health.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and maintain the Quality Management System (QMS) in alignment with GMP, ISO 9001, and local regulatory requirements.
• Lead internal and external audits, including FDA, EMA, and Ethiopian Food and Drug Authority (EFDA) inspections, ensuring timely corrective actions.
• Oversee validation of manufacturing processes, equipment qualification, and analytical methods.
• Manage deviation investigations, root‑cause analysis, and CAPA implementation to prevent recurrence.
• Collaborate with R&D to ensure new product introductions meet quality standards from development through commercial launch.
• Provide mentorship and training to QA staff, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and compliance.
• Prepare and present quality performance metrics to senior leadership and stakeholders.
• Ensure proper documentation control, change management, and release procedures for all products.

Required Skills

• In‑depth knowledge of GMP, GCP, and relevant international pharmaceutical regulations.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving abilities with a data‑driven approach.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
• Proficiency in quality risk management tools such as FMEA, HACCP, and Ishikawa diagrams.
• Experience with electronic document management systems (eDMS) and quality software platforms.
• Ability to work effectively in cross‑functional, multicultural teams.

Education

A Bachelor’s degree in Pharmacy, Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or a related discipline is required. A Master’s degree or relevant professional certifications (e.g., CQE, CQA) are highly preferred and demonstrate a commitment to advanced quality expertise.

Experience

Minimum of eight (8) years of progressive experience in pharmaceutical quality assurance, with at least three (3) years in a supervisory or managerial capacity. Experience in a multinational environment and familiarity with both local (EFDA) and international regulatory frameworks are essential.

Salary

The role offers a competitive salary range of 250,000 – 350,000 SSP per month, commensurate with experience and qualifications, along with performance‑based incentives and comprehensive benefits.

Benefits

• Health insurance covering employee and dependents.
• Retirement savings plan.
• Paid annual leave and public holidays.
• Professional development allowance.
• Employee assistance program.

Training

• On‑boarding program covering Novartis quality systems and Ethiopian regulatory landscape.
• Continuous learning opportunities through internal workshops, external conferences, and e‑learning platforms.
• Leadership development courses to enhance managerial competencies.

Working Environment

Novartis Ethiopia provides a modern, safety‑focused workplace equipped with advanced laboratory and manufacturing facilities. The company promotes a collaborative atmosphere where innovation, integrity, and respect are core values. Employees benefit from flexible work arrangements, a supportive HR team, and a commitment to work‑life balance.

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit their updated CV and a cover letter outlining their relevant experience through the Novartis Careers portal. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews. Please ensure all documents are in PDF format.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Novartis Ethiopia is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees, regardless of gender, ethnicity, religion, disability, or sexual orientation. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without discrimination.