Head of Site Engineering

We are seeking an experienced and driven Head of Site Engineering to lead the full scope of engineering activities at our largest global manufacturing site. The site hosts around 1,000 employees across Drug Substance, Drug Product, Warehouse, QC, and QA operations.This role is pivotal in ensuring robust, compliant, and reliable engineering support for a facility that makes a global impact on public health.Reporting directly to the Site Head (VP) and being a part of the Site leadership team, you will lead a team of :50 employees, including managers, engineers, and compliance specialists.The role encompasses site engineering operations, maintenance, utilities, facilities, capital investments, automation, and facilities for Denmark. This is a key leadership position during a period of transformation, as the site evolves from a standalone entity to an integrated part of a global engineering organization.The successful candidate will combine strategic leadership with hands-on operational engagement, ensuring GMP compliance, driving continuous improvement, and fostering a culture of responsibility, safety, and quality across all engineering activities.Key ResponsibilitiesLead and develop the Site Engineering team (:50 employees), foster accountability, safety, and excellenceEnsure compliant, reliable, and cost-effective facilities, utilities, and engineering services for GMP manufacturingDrive validation, regulatory compliance, and continuous improvement/lean initiativesPartner with Global Engineering on capital projects, expansions, and modernizationProvide technical leadership and cross-functional collaboration to support site transformation into a globally integrated operationQualifications & ExperienceThe ideal candidate holds a degree in Engineering (or equivalent experience) with 5–10 years of leadership in engineering, facilities, or technical operations—preferably within sterile manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, biologics, or other GMP-regulated industries.They bring deep expertise in pharmaceutical engineering, GMP compliance, validation, and technical quality, with familiarity in modern engineering practices (e.g., ISPE) and evolving GMP standards such as Annex 11.A proven track record in leading multifunctional teams, driving continuous improvement, embedding safety and quality, and managing change in complex environments is essential. Experience with capital project delivery is an advantage, though the primary focus lies in operations and compliance.Key strengths include:Strong background in GMP compliance and regulatory standardsDemonstrated success in continuous improvement and lean practicesAbility to inspire and deliver results through cross-functional teamsKey CompetenciesThis role requires strong change in leadership, balancing strategic vision with hands-on problem-solving. The successful candidate will demonstrate cross-functional collaboration, build strong partnerships across the business, and ensure safety and quality remain central to all activities. They will also be a people-focused leader, inspiring and developing managers, engineers, and technical professionals to deliver excellence.Why Join Us?Shape the future of engineering in Denmark by leading facilities, automation, and capital investment projects that directly impact GMP manufacturingDrive site modernization and integration into a global engineering organization, influencing both local operations and global strategyBalance strategic leadership with hands-on impact, ensuring compliance, efficiency, and operational excellenceLeave a lasting mark by building a culture of responsibility, safety, and quality while steering continuous improvementDirect impact on the production of life-saving vaccines and public health worldwideJoin a growing site with significant investment, global visibility, and opportunities for professional growthCaught your interest?If you are ready to take on a pivotal role in a growing organization and drive meaningful change in healthcare, apply now and join Bavarian Nordic in our mission to improve health outcomes and foster sustainable growth.Please contact Talent Acquisition Partner Charlotte Kehlet Godt at +45 3137 2437 if you have any questions regarding the position.We kindly request that headhunters or recruitment agencies refrain from contacting us regarding this position.Founded in 1994, we have +30 years of experience developing life-saving vaccines. We are a global leader in smallpox and mpox vaccines. Our commercial product portfolio contains market-leading vaccines against rabies, tick-borne encephalitis, cholera, typhoid, and Ebola. We are headquartered in Denmark and have manufacturing, research, and sales offices across Europe and North America. Our values – our Bavarian Nordic DNA, as we like to call it – are what guide our actions every day. We act as persistent pioneers, embrace change, value being boosted by the team, and believe in protecting lives every day. If that is also a part of your DNA, we invite you to join us in Bavarian Nordic! Bavarian Nordic is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applications will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against based on race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.www.bavarian-nordic.com