Chief Pharmaceutical Compliance Officer Job Vacancy in Gisenyi, Rwanda – Healthcare & Life Sciences

Job Description

Position: Chief Pharmaceutical Compliance Officer

Company: Novartis

Location: Gisenyi, Rwanda

Experience: 10+ years

Education: Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) or PhD in Pharmacology

Employment Type: Full-time

Industry: Healthcare & Life Sciences

Department: Regulatory Affairs & Compliance

Vacancies: 1

Company Overview

Novartis is a global leader in innovative medicines, dedicated to reimagining medicine to improve and extend people’s lives. With a presence in over 140 countries, we combine cutting-edge science with a deep commitment to patient access and healthcare equity. Our operations in Rwanda are focused on expanding the availability of life-saving treatments and ensuring that the highest standards of pharmaceutical safety are maintained across the region. As a company, we foster a culture of curiosity, courage, and collaboration, driving breakthroughs in oncology, immunology, and neuroscience. By integrating advanced data analytics and biotechnology, Novartis continues to set the benchmark for pharmaceutical excellence globally. We are currently expanding our regulatory footprint in East Africa to better serve the growing needs of the local population, making this a pivotal time for professionals seeking high-impact Rwanda Jobs.

Job Overview

The Chief Pharmaceutical Compliance Officer will be responsible for overseeing the entire regulatory framework and quality assurance protocols for our operations in Gisenyi. This executive role ensures that all pharmaceutical distribution, storage, and clinical trial activities adhere strictly to both Rwandan national laws and international Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP). The successful candidate will act as the primary liaison between Novartis and the Rwanda Food and Drugs Authority (RFDA), ensuring seamless certification and audit processes. This is a critical leadership position designed to mitigate risk and ensure that every medication reaching the patient is safe, effective, and compliant. For those exploring Career Opportunities in Rwanda, this role offers a unique blend of strategic oversight and technical expertise. You will lead a multidisciplinary team of pharmacists and auditors to maintain a zero-defect compliance environment.

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Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement comprehensive compliance strategies to align with Rwanda’s pharmaceutical regulations.
• Lead internal and external audits to ensure adherence to international quality standards.
• Manage the licensing and registration process for new pharmaceutical products entering the Rwandan market.
• Oversee the cold-chain logistics compliance to prevent degradation of temperature-sensitive biologics.
• Provide expert guidance to the executive board on evolving healthcare legislation and risk management.
• Coordinate with global headquarters to synchronize local operations with international corporate governance.
• Conduct rigorous training sessions for staff on pharmacovigilance and adverse event reporting.

Required Skills

• Expert knowledge of Rwandan pharmaceutical law and international ICH guidelines.
• Advanced leadership and stakeholder management capabilities.
• Strong analytical skills for risk assessment and mitigation.
• Fluency in English and Kinyarwanda; French is a significant advantage.
• Proficiency in pharmaceutical quality management software (QMS).
• Exceptional attention to detail and a commitment to ethical pharmaceutical practices.

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Education

Candidates must possess a Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) or a PhD in Pharmacology, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or a closely related field from an accredited institution. Professional certification in Regulatory Affairs (RAC) is highly preferred.

Experience

A minimum of 10 years of experience in pharmaceutical compliance, with at least 5 years in a senior management or director-level role. Proven track record of managing successful regulatory submissions and passing high-stakes government audits is essential for this Job Vacancy in Rwanda.

Benefits

• Competitive executive salary package with performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive international health insurance and wellness programs.
• Relocation assistance for candidates moving to Gisenyi.
• Generous retirement contribution plan.
• Paid sabbatical leave every five years of service.

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Training

• Advanced certification in Global Regulatory Strategy.
• Leadership development programs through the Novartis Global Academy.
• Specialized training in emerging biotechnology compliance.
• Annual attendance at international pharmaceutical law conferences.

Working Environment

The role is based in our state-of-the-art facility in Gisenyi, offering a professional and high-energy atmosphere. The environment is a hybrid of corporate office management and on-site inspections of warehouses and clinics. As part of our commitment to Employment in Rwanda, we provide a supportive, inclusive workplace that values diversity and intellectual rigor. The position requires occasional travel to Kigali and other regional hubs to coordinate with government officials.

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit their updated CV and a detailed cover letter outlining their regulatory achievements. Shortlisted applicants will undergo a three-stage interview process, including a technical assessment and a final interview with the Regional Director. We are actively Hiring in Rwanda and look forward to welcoming a visionary leader to our team.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Novartis is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees regardless of race, religion, gender, age, or disability. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment based on merit and business needs.