Pharmaceutical Quality Assurance Manager Job Vacancy in Thika, Kenya – Healthcare / Pharmaceuticals

Job Description

Position: Pharmaceutical Quality Assurance Manager

Company: GlaxoSmithKline Kenya

Location: Thika, Kenya

Experience: Minimum 5 years in pharmaceutical quality assurance

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

Employment Type: Full-time

Industry: Healthcare / Pharmaceuticals

Department: Quality Assurance

Salary: SSP 200,000 – 300,000 per month

Vacancies:1

Company Overview

GlaxoSmithKline Kenya (GSK Kenya) is a leading global healthcare company dedicated to improving the health and well‑being of people worldwide. With a strong presence in Kenya, GSK Kenya operates state‑of‑the‑art manufacturing facilities, research laboratories, and a robust distribution network that reaches every corner of the country. The company’s commitment to innovation, ethical standards, and community engagement makes it a top employer for professionals seeking meaningful career opportunities. As part of GSK’s global family, employees in Kenya benefit from world‑class training, competitive compensation, and a culture that values diversity, inclusion, and continuous improvement. This role contributes directly to GSK’s mission of delivering high‑quality medicines and vaccines to patients across Kenya and the wider East African region.

Job Overview

The Pharmaceutical Quality Assurance (QA) Manager will lead the QA function for GSK Kenya’s manufacturing site in Thika, ensuring that all products meet the highest standards of safety, efficacy, and regulatory compliance. Reporting to the Head of Operations, the manager will oversee a team of QA specialists, coordinate with production, R&D, and regulatory affairs, and drive continuous improvement initiatives. This position offers a unique opportunity to shape quality culture, implement cutting‑edge quality systems, and support GSK’s strategic goals in the African market. For more information about GSK Kenya’s career portal, visit https://kenyajobsearch.com.

Explore similar opportunities across East Africa at https://tanzaniajobsearch.com/job-vacancy-tanzania/.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and maintain the Quality Management System (QMS) in accordance with GMP, ISO 9001, and local regulatory requirements.
• Lead internal and external audits, ensuring timely closure of CAPA (Corrective and Preventive Actions).
• Supervise release of finished products, batch records review, and deviation investigations.
• Collaborate with Production, Engineering, and R&D to embed quality by design principles into all processes.
• Provide training and mentorship to QA staff, fostering a culture of continuous learning and compliance.
• Monitor key quality metrics, generate performance reports, and present findings to senior leadership.
• Manage relationships with the Kenya Pharmacy and Poisons Board and other regulatory bodies.
• Drive implementation of risk‑based approaches, including FMEA and HACCP, to proactively mitigate quality issues.

Required Skills

• In‑depth knowledge of GMP, ICH guidelines, and local pharmaceutical regulations.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving abilities with a data‑driven mindset.
• Excellent leadership and people‑management skills.
• Effective communication skills, both written and verbal, for cross‑functional collaboration.
• Proficiency in QMS software (e.g., MasterControl, Veeva) and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously while meeting strict deadlines.

Education

A Bachelor’s degree in Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chemistry, or a related discipline is required. A Master’s degree or professional certifications such as Certified Quality Auditor (CQA) or Certified Pharmaceutical GMP Professional (CPGP) are highly desirable.

Experience

Minimum of five (5) years of progressive experience in pharmaceutical quality assurance, with at least two (2) years in a supervisory or managerial role. Experience in a multinational pharmaceutical environment is preferred.

Salary

The successful candidate will receive a competitive salary ranging from SSP 200,000 to SSP 300,000 per month, commensurate with experience and qualifications. Additional performance‑based bonuses and benefits are part of the total compensation package.

Benefits

• Comprehensive health insurance for employee and dependents.
• Retirement savings plan with company matching contributions.
• Paid annual leave, sick leave, and maternity/paternity leave.
• Employee assistance program and wellness initiatives.
• Transportation allowance and meal vouchers.

Training

• Access to GSK Global Learning Academy for continuous professional development.
• On‑the‑job training in advanced quality systems and regulatory affairs.
• Leadership development programs to prepare for future senior roles.
• Opportunities to attend international conferences and workshops.

Working Environment

GSK Kenya offers a modern, safety‑focused manufacturing campus in Thika equipped with cutting‑edge technology and collaborative workspaces. The organization promotes a respectful, inclusive atmosphere where diverse perspectives are valued. Employees enjoy flexible working arrangements, a strong emphasis on work‑life balance, and a supportive community that celebrates achievements.

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit their updated CV and a cover letter outlining their relevant experience through the GSK Kenya careers portal. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and shortlisted candidates will be contacted for a virtual interview followed by an on‑site assessment.

Equal Opportunity Statement

GlaxoSmithKline Kenya is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees, regardless of gender, race, religion, age, disability, sexual orientation, or any other protected characteristic. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without discrimination.