Associate Director, RMS Quality (Small Animal and NHP)

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.

• 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.