The Associate Director, RMS Quality (Small Animal and Non-Human Primate) provides strategic leadership and oversight of quality systems, regulatory compliance, and continuous improvement initiatives across small animal and non-human primate operations. This role ensures adherence to applicable regulatory requirements, animal welfare standards, company policies, and quality management systems while partnering with operational, veterinary, and scientific teams to promote a culture of quality, compliance, and operational excellence. The Associate Director is responsible for leading quality personnel, driving risk-based decision-making, supporting internal and external audits, and ensuring consistent quality practices that protect animal welfare, support customer expectations, and advance organizational objectives.
- Lead and oversee quality assurance programs and quality management systems for Small Animal and Non-Human Primate operations.
- Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, animal welfare standards, company policies, and customer expectations.
- Direct internal audits, regulatory inspections, customer audits, and corrective action initiatives.
- Monitor quality metrics and trends to identify risks and drive continuous improvement.
- Partner with Operations, Veterinary Services, and Animal Welfare teams to promote quality, compliance, and operational excellence.
- Lead investigations and resolution of quality events, non-conformances, and compliance issues.
- Develop, implement, and maintain quality policies, procedures, and standards.
- Manage and develop quality personnel while fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.
- Provide strategic guidance and reporting to senior leadership on quality performance, compliance status, and improvement opportunities.
- Support business growth initiatives, risk management activities, and quality integration for new programs or operational changes.
- Deliver consistent, ongoing recording and management of organizational risks and mitigation activities
- Accountability for all licenses being in place to enable compliant operations, and appropriate records are held and renewals maintained; either directly or through partnerships with relevant departments
- Other duties as assigned
- Education: Bachelor's degree in life sciences preferred; equivalent experience may be considered.
- 10+ years of experience in quality assurance, regulatory compliance, or quality systems within life sciences, laboratory animal, pharmaceutical, biotechnology, CRO, or related industries, including leadership of quality programs and teams.
- Expert knowledge of animal welfare regulations, AAALAC standards, USDA requirements, and quality management systems.
- Experience with Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) and using data to drive quality and compliance strategy.
- Demonstrated ability to develop and execute quality strategies, influence senior leaders, and lead organizational change.
- Strong leadership, communication, and decision-making skills with the ability to manage competing priorities across multiple functions or locations.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, including Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.
Working Conditions & Physical Requirements:
- Prolonged periods of computer and display screen use.
- Ability to read, interpret, and communicate information effectively.
- Ability to multi-task and produce quality analysis while working under the pressure of strict deadlines.
- Proficient in time management and resource planning.
- Ability to perform duties with minimal supervision.
- Ability to initiate and implement self-development efforts.
- Advanced ability to effectively interact with clients and regulatory personnel.
- Ability to work effectively across state / geographical boundaries
- Ability to travel to international locations (25% to 30%)
- Overtime, weekend, and holiday work as required.
Salary Range: The salary range for this role is $101,800 to $142,000 adjusted according to the level of the role and the candidate’s relevant experience and/or education. Salary will be commensurate with experience and responsibilities.
Benefits: Health and dental coverage, short- and long-term disability, paid time off, paid parental leave, 401(k), and more.
Position Status: Open until filled.
*This position could be offered at different levels for candidates who qualify with a combination of advanced levels of education and/or years of experience. The salary range will adjust along with the level of the role to match the person’s relevant experience and/or education level.
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*This position could be offered at different levels for candidates who qualify with a combination of advanced levels of education and/or years of experience. The salary range will adjust along with the level of the role to match the person’s relevant experience and/or education level.
Salary will be commensurate with experience and responsibilities. Benefits include health and dental coverage, short- and long-term disability, paid time off, paid parental leave, 401K, and more!
