Project QA Expert

The Project QA expert is responsible for providing end to end Quality Assurance support for the design, construction, qualification, and start up of strategic projects at site. This role ensures that the new building, utilities, equipment and processes are designed and implemented in full compliance with Novartis global QMS, CGMP and local regulations, and that the facility is inspection‑ready at start‑up.

Project Quality OversightAct as the QA expert and key quality contact for the project, providing quality support from concept design through qualification and handover to operations. Ensure appropriate application of GMP, data integrity and contamination control principles across all project phases.Design & Engineering PhaseReview and challenge URS, design concepts, layouts and technical specifications for facility, equipment and utilities. Ensure that flows of personnel, materials, waste, and equipment support contamination control, segregation and cross‑contamination prevention.Contribute to contamination control strategy (CCS) development for the new sterile facility. Construction, Commissioning & Vendor ManagementProvide QA oversight during construction, installation and commissioning activities to ensure alignment with approved design and GMP requirements.Participate in or review FAT/SAT activities for critical equipment and systems (e.g. filling lines, isolators/RABS, autoclaves, lyophilizers, HVAC, water systems, clean utilities).Review quality aspects of vendor documentation, and support supplier qualification where relevant.Qualification & ValidationReview and approve qualification/validation master plans related to the sterile project (facility, HVAC, utilities, equipment, cleaning, sterilization, aseptic processes).Review and approve IQ/OQ/PQ protocols and reports for critical equipment and systems to ensure compliance with internal standards and regulatory expectations.Ensure data integrity controls are built into computerized systems and automation relevant to the sterile area.Quality Systems & DocumentationEnsure appropriate change control, deviation management, CAPA and risk management processes are applied within the project.Support creation and review of SOPs, master batch records, forms, and other GMP documents necessary for sterile operations.Ensure project documentation is complete, traceable, and inspection‑ready.GMP Readiness & Inspection PreparationSupport GMP readiness assessments and self inspections for the new sterile facility and associated systems.Prepare and support the site for regulatory inspections and internal audits related to the sterile project, including participation in facility tours, document review and responses.Coordinate with Operations QA to ensure a smooth transition from project to routine quality oversight.Cross Functional CollaborationWork closely with Engineering, Project Management, Validation, Production, QC, HSE, Procurement, and external contractors/vendors to ensure quality requirements are understood and implemented.Share relevant GMP, aseptic processing requirements and project quality processes with project team members as needed.Background:University degree in Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Science, Biotechnology, Chemistry, Engineering or related scientific/technical discipline.Strong written and verbal communication skills in Chinese and English; able to read, interpret, and apply English regulations and guidelines. Experience in supporting inspections/audits in English is a plus.Minimum 5 years of experience in the pharmaceutical industry in Quality‑related roles (QA/QC/Validation/Production), with a3 years of experience in sterile/aseptic manufacturing is preferable.Proven experience playing a leading or core role in projects such as new/modified sterile production lines, new product introduction, technology transfer, or large-scale validation programs is preferable.Experience in multinational pharmaceutical companies or at sites that have undergone inspections by multiple health authorities (e.g. NMPA / FDA / EMA / PIC/S) is strongly preferred.Experience as a core contributor in cross-functional projects is an advantage.Strong professional judgment and problem-solving skills, with the ability to provide sound quality input in complex situations.Good interpersonal and cross-functional communication skills, with the ability to work effectively with different stakeholders.Solid project management skills; able to manage multiple priorities and deliver under time pressure.Strong sense of accountability, attention to detail, and continuous improvement mindset.