Director, Operational Excellenc [Remote]

This position is listed on behalf of a partner company, who manages all applications and next steps. Our partner is looking for a Director, Operational Excellence based in the United States United States.

This senior leadership role drives enterprise-wide operational transformation across manufacturing sites in Europe and North America, with a strong focus on Lean 4.0, digital manufacturing, and continuous improvement. You will shape and execute multi-site operational excellence strategies that integrate Lean methodologies with advanced digital technologies, analytics, and automation. The role is pivotal in building a modern, data-driven operating model that improves efficiency, quality, and cost performance at scale. You will lead the deployment of standardized systems, governance frameworks, and performance management practices across a global manufacturing network. Acting as a transformation leader, you will partner with site leaders to embed a culture of continuous improvement and digital adoption. The environment is fast-paced, highly regulated, and deeply mission-driven, with direct impact on global patient access to medicines. This is a strategic role with significant visibility and influence across regional and global leadership teams.

Accountabilities:

• Lead the end-to-end deployment and sustainment of Lean 4.0 transformation programs across manufacturing sites in Europe and North America.
• Integrate Lean methodologies with digital technologies such as automation, AI-enabled insights, and advanced analytics to build a modern operating model.
• Translate global operational excellence strategy into actionable site-level transformation roadmaps and execution plans.
• Deploy standardized work systems, KPI frameworks, tiered management, and structured problem-solving methodologies across sites.
• Drive cost optimization initiatives, identifying and tracking savings opportunities while ensuring value delivery against targets.
• Oversee digital transformation initiatives including paperless systems, smart quality, predictive maintenance, and performance optimization tools.
• Establish governance frameworks, diagnostics, and maturity models to ensure consistent Lean 4.0 adoption across all locations.
• Build organizational capability through Lean training, coaching, leadership development, and certification programs.

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Operations, Business, or related field; MBA preferred or equivalent experience.
• 12–18 years of experience in pharmaceutical manufacturing, operational excellence, or large-scale transformation programs.
• Strong expertise in Lean methodologies and Six Sigma (Green Belt required, Black Belt preferred).
• Proven experience leading multi-site or regional transformation initiatives in complex manufacturing environments.
• Hands-on experience with digital transformation, Industry 4.0, or smart manufacturing initiatives.
• Strong understanding of cGMP regulations and pharmaceutical manufacturing compliance requirements.
• Ability to lead cross-functional teams and influence senior stakeholders across global organizations.
• Excellent communication, coaching, and leadership skills with a focus on capability building and cultural transformation.

Benefits:

• Competitive salary range: $112,000 – $236,000 USD annually, depending on experience and location
• Performance-based incentives aligned with operational and transformation outcomes
• Comprehensive healthcare coverage including medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Fully remote work flexibility within the United States
• Retirement savings plans and financial wellbeing programs
• Paid time off, holidays, and wellness support programs
• Leadership development, Lean certification, and continuous learning opportunities
• Opportunity to impact global healthcare access and large-scale manufacturing transformation.

How Jobgether works:

We use an AI-powered matching process to ensure your application is reviewed quickly, objectively, and fairly against the role's core requirements. Our system identifies the top-fitting candidates, and this shortlist is then shared directly with the hiring company. The final decision and next steps (interviews, assessments) are managed by their internal team.

We appreciate your interest and wish you the best!

Data Privacy Notice: By submitting your application, you acknowledge that Jobgether will process your personal data to evaluate your candidacy and share relevant information with the hiring employer. This processing is based on legitimate interest and pre-contractual measures under applicable data protection laws (including GDPR). You may exercise your rights (access, rectification, erasure, objection) at any time.

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We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.