Director, Operational Excellence – EU & NA

This is a fully remote position, open to applicants in Ireland.

📋 Description

• Oversee the comprehensive deployment and ongoing support of the Lean 4.0 initiative across EU and NA locations.

• Propel the integration of Lean principles with automation, data analytics, and AI-driven insights.

• Take ownership of regional Lean 4.0 governance, roadmap execution, and phased deployment.

• Ensure the implementation of Lean 4.0 standards, frameworks, and maturity models across various sites.

• Provide site diagnostics, establish baselines, and create three-year transformation roadmaps.

• Convert global OE and Lean 4.0 strategies into actionable transformation roadmaps at the site level.

• Spearhead the deployment of standardized work, lean systems, and performance management frameworks.

• Institutionalize tier management, KPI systems, and structured problem-solving approaches.

• Enhance and replicate successful practices and transformation case studies.

• Drive the strategic cost-reduction framework across the network, identify savings opportunities, and monitor value delivery.

• Foster harmonization among sites and implement best practices to achieve cost savings.

• Encourage the adoption of digital foundations such as paperless systems, digital logs, and data integration.

• Lead Lean 4.0 workstreams that encompass Flow & Performance Excellence, Smart Quality, Lab of the Future, and Engineering & Energy Excellence.

• Facilitate real-time, data-driven decision-making across multiple sites.

• Build Lean 4.0 capabilities within site leadership and teams.

• Oversee training, leadership development, and capability certification initiatives.

• Mentor site leaders to incorporate continuous improvement and digital adoption practices.

• Cultivate a sustainable pipeline of leaders in Operational Excellence and transformation.

⛳️ Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in engineering, Operations, or Business; MBA is preferred.

• A combination of relevant experience and/or education will be taken into account.

• 12–18 years of experience in pharmaceutical manufacturing, operational excellence, or transformation roles.

• Strong expertise in Lean and Six Sigma (minimum Green Belt; Black Belt preferred).

• Demonstrated success in implementing large-scale transformation programs across multiple sites or regions.

• Experience with digital transformation and Industry 4.0 initiatives in manufacturing settings.

• Solid understanding of cGMP and regulatory standards.

• Proficiency in speaking, understanding, reading, and writing in English is required.

🏝️ Benefits

• Competitive salaries

• Comprehensive benefits

• Inclusive workplace culture

• Equal Opportunity Employer