Strategic Initiatives Manager

Strategic Initiatives Manager

Bachem is a leading, innovation-driven company specializing in the development and manufacture of peptides and oligonucleotides. With over 50 years of experience and expertise Bachem provides products for research, clinical development and commercial application to pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies worldwide and offers a comprehensive range of services. Bachem operates internationally with headquarters in Switzerland and locations in Europe, the US and Asia. The company is listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange. For further information, see www.bachem.com.

A brief overview

The Strategic Initiatives Manager operates within the President's Office and leads cross‑functional strategic initiatives and enterprise projects within Bachem Americas. This role partners closely with the President, Site Leaders, Executive Leadership Team, and key stakeholders to plan and implement high‑priority initiatives that drive operational performance, growth, and organizational effectiveness. The position combines hands-on project/program leadership with analytical and decision support, including preparation of business cases, leadership briefings, and recommendations. The Strategic Initiatives Manager also supports regional project portfolio oversight in alignment with the Global EPMO, ensuring visibility, prioritization input, and alignment of initiatives across Bachem Americas. Operating in a matrix environment, the Strategic Initiatives Manager drives alignment and implementation through structured planning, collaboration, and disciplined follow‑through rather than formal authority.

What you will do

• Lead cross-functional strategic initiatives from initiation through completion, including defining scope, timelines, milestones, KPIs, governance, deliverables, and coordination across functions and sites.
• Support the President in translating strategic priorities into actionable, measurable initiatives; prepares business cases, leadership briefings, analyses, and recommendations.
• Support regional project portfolio management in alignment with the Global EPMO, including project intake, prioritization input, progress tracking, dependency mapping, risk identification, and implementation of PM standards
• Prepare executive-level materials, reports, and dashboards to support leadership decision-making. Cascade strategies, decisions, and priorities through clear communication and structured cross-functional engagement.
• Design and facilitate BAM Project Portfolio Management board meetings, planning workshops, and performance reviews that support effective decision-making and enterprise alignment.
• Conduct financial, operational, and scenario analysis to evaluate strategic options and quantify business impact.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in business administration, life sciences, or related field
• Master's degree (preferred)
• 6+ years’ experience in business strategy and program/project management
• 3+ years’ experience in biotech, pharmaceutical, or regulated environments Pref
• Certification Project Management Professional (PMP) or equivalent (preferred)
• Strong project and program management capabilities, including governance frameworks, reporting standards, resource planning, risk management, and execution tracking.
• Experience implementing PMO governance frameworks, reporting standards, and operational best practices
• Ability to translate strategy into structured execution plans
• Executive communication and presentation skills
• Strong analytical and financial modeling capability
• Ability to influence stakeholders in a matrix organization.
• Comfortable navigating ambiguity, shifting priorities, and fast-moving environments.
• Problem-solving and structured thinking
• Proficiency in MS Office (Excel, PowerPoint, Power BI)
• Expertise in Project management tools and ability to utilize project and portfolio management systems.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality, discretion, tact and diplomacy in all aspects of work.
• 20 - 30 % Regular travel between Torrance and Vista sites; occasional travel for leadership meetings or strategic initiatives

Base salary range: $112,000 - $154,000

Placement of new hires in this wage range is based on several factors including education, skill sets, experience, and training.

Total Rewards

We offer all Team Members a total rewards package including competitive pay, annual performance bonus, a generous benefit package with comprehensive Medical/Dental/Vision coverage, 401(k) plan with employer contribution, and paid vacation, personal and sick days.

Corporate Social Responsibility

Bachem takes responsibility for future generations by a careful handling of resources and avoiding environmental risks. We continually improve our ecological performance and develop and implement new approaches for enhancing employees’ environmental awareness.  EcoVadis has awarded Bachem Gold Medal status in their assessment of Bachem.

Bachem Americas is an Equal Opportunity Employer

As an equal opportunity employer, we celebrate the diversity of our team and are committed to building an inclusive workplace where individuals are hired and advanced based on merit, skills, and qualifications. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, veteran status, or other legally protected status.

At Bachem, you’ll find a diverse, multicultural team. The (a)in the job title stands for all. We welcome applications from all candidates. What matters are your skills and motivation—regardless of age, gender, background, religion, or sexual orientation.

Please note: unsolicited resumes from recruitment agencies will not be considered.