WuXi AppTec is seeking an experienced and highly motivated Site Head (m/f/d) to lead the planning, delivery, and management of our new drug substance facility in the Warsaw region. This large greenfield investment, covering approximately 200,000 square metres, will be WuXi AppTec’s first large-scale drug substance facility in Poland and a cornerstone of our European manufacturing footprint. The facility is expected to commence production in 2028/2029, with construction and commissioning scheduled to take 18–30 months.

The Site Head will be responsible for the end-to-end management of this complex project, encompassing site selection, permitting, engineering, construction, contractor management, and the transition to operations. The role requires strong leadership across disciplines, the ability to navigate Poland’s regulatory environment, and close coordination with WuXi AppTec’s global technical and business teams, as well as external advisors.

• Project ownership for the planning, delivery, and oversight of new drug substance facility
• Lead site selection, land acquisition, and permitting processes in close coordination with internal teams, external advisors, and relevant authorities. Direct pre-construction activities including feasibility studies, environmental impact assessments, and constructability reviews
• Manage project budgeting, scheduling, and risk control to ensure delivery on time, within budget, and to quality standards. Ensure compliance with all regulatory, environmental, health, and safety requirements
• Liaise with real estate developers, EPC partners, architects, engineers, and infrastructure providers
• Coordinate cross-functional input from senior leadership, technical experts, legal teams, procurement and suppliers, project teams
• Supervise construction, site safety, and quality control across all project phases
• Anticipate and mitigate bottlenecks, including zoning, hazardous materials licensing, building restrictions, and approvals for 24/7 operations
• Report regularly to WuXi AppTec’s global management team on project progress, risks, and solutions
• Prepare the transition of the completed facility to operational leadership
• Build and lead the local project team to ensure the successful delivery of all project phases

• Master’s degree in Construction/Project Management, Engineering, Economics, or Business Administration;
• At least 10-15 years of relevant experience managing large-scale industrial development and construction projects in Poland; experience in biotech, pharma, or chemicals is a strong preference
• Proven track record in complex project management, from planning through to execution and commissioning. Skilled in risk management, problem-solving, and stakeholder engagement
• Strong understanding of Polish regulatory and permitting frameworks; experience with EU and local regulations relevant for pharmaceutical plants as well as GMP standards
• Demonstrated ability to lead interdisciplinary teams and manage external partners
• Knowledge of public funding schemes and EU structural funds is highly desirable
• Fluency in Polish and English (C1 level), with strong written and verbal communication
• Proficient in Microsoft Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and project management tools (e.g. MS Project) 

Location & Duration

The position is based primarily in Poland, with flexibility for remote work during specific project phases by arrangement with leadership. The overall project timeline is 18–30 months, covering planning, permitting, construction, and commissioning.