Chemistry Operations Manager | Early Research | Pharma
đź“ŤWalloon Brabant, Belgium
Introduction
Nalys is a Belgian recruitment and consultancy firm specialised in the pharmaceutical and life sciences industries. With deep expertise across projects management, manufacturing, process engineering and quality, we support both large international groups and innovative scale-ups in building the teams that drive their projects forward. When we place a professional, we stay by their side — before, during and after the mission.
Today, we're looking for an experienced Chemistry Operations Manager to provide operational support within an early research chemistry hub in the Brabant wallon area. This is a high-responsibility, fully on-site role at the heart of a demanding technical environment — where chemical risk, infrastructure projects and research continuity all converge on a daily basis.
Your Responsibilities
As the new Chemistry Operations Manager, you will :
* Provide day-to-day operational support across chemistry research buildings, ensuring smooth continuity for research teams
* Coordinate infrastructure and facility projects — managing interfaces, following up on planning and ensuring research activities are never disrupted
* Manage incidents and technical issues on-site with speed, calm and sound judgement
* Conduct risk analyses and manage work permits prior to any technical intervention, using established internal frameworks
* Act as the key interface between researchers, Engineering, Facilities, IT and external contractors and suppliers
* Actively contribute to the reduction of the safety backlog — actions arising from incidents, audits, CPPT visits and risk assessments
* Participate in continuous improvement and process optimisation initiatives
* Navigate a high-risk chemical environment daily — solvents, CMR substances, pressure systems, exothermic reactions, PED, HVAC and gas detection systems.
Your Profile
* You hold a Master's degree in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry or equivalent
* You have minimum 7 years of experience in a chemical, pharmaceutical, CMC, development or production environment
* Strong chemical risk knowledge is non-negotiable — this is the foundation of the role
* You have solid understanding of building infrastructure in chemistry environments: HVAC systems, pressure cascades, air renewal rates, PED, piping, gas detection, electrical and utilities systems
* And proven ability to manage critical and emergency situations with composure
* You feel comfortable interacting with researchers, engineers, contractors and suppliers simultaneously
* You are fluent in French is mandatory — approximately 80% of daily interactions are conducted in French
* With a strong technical English for documentation and procedures
* Exposure to Seveso-type environments or previous experience in a chemistry research building is a genuine asset
* You have a continuous improvement mindset is a plus
* This role is operational, coordination-heavy and field-oriented.
What We Offer
* A human‑scaled consulting company focused on expertise, partnership, and career development
* Long‑term assignments with leading pharmaceutical players
* Continuous learning through technical coaching, training, and knowledge sharing
* A supportive culture that values autonomy, trust, and impact
* An attractive salary package with additional benefits.
Our Recruitment Process
When applying for this position at Nalys, you can expect a clear and engaging recruitment journey:
* Talent Acquisition Call
A first discussion with our Talent Acquisition Specialist, Olivia Braszko, to understand your background, motivations, and career goals
* Technical Interview
A meeting with one of our Technical Referent to evaluate your expertise and fit for the mission
* Business Interview
* A conversation with the Business Unit Director, Jimmy Rousseaux, to discuss the project context and your future within Nalys.
Interested?
👉 Apply directly via this post and let's discuss your motivation through a first teams meeting!