Associate Director - MES Architect & Technical Lead

Role Summary

Associate Director – MES Architect & Technical Lead. This role is part of Tech@Lilly MQ, driving manufacturing operational excellence and productivity through advanced technology in new state-of-the-art API manufacturing sites.

Responsibilities

• Lead the architectural and technical components of the Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) solution using Syncade modules.
• Establish and maintain direction for Syncade Solution Architecture in collaboration with the global Syncade Group; define standards, best practices, and technical frameworks for consistency, scalability, and reliability across sites.
• Provide expert guidance and oversight in the design, implementation, and optimization of MES architecture to meet strategic objectives and operational requirements.
• Collaborate with global Architects, Enterprise Architects, local IT teams, and other groups to identify solutions for MES-related challenges.
• FormStrategic roadmap and evolve site design for API MES solutions and interfaces to MES; define global IT support and delivery processes.
• Review solution delivery projects for compliance with reference architecture; facilitate proofs-of-concept for future-state direction.
• Research, test, certify, select, and introduce innovative technology products required for MES development and delivery.
• Collaborate with Data Management to align with Data Architecture Standards; work with Cybersecurity/Protect Lilly to establish operating principles for MQ IDS MES systems and interfaces.
• Ensure IT vendors translate cybersecurity requirements into implementation specifications; act as interface between IT and Business Partners on large projects from a technical perspective.
• Identify new trends/opportunities; maintain industry relationships to keep Lilly aligned with trends; coach/mentor MES team members on technologies and design.
• Lead or support development of business cases related to MES; influence business to drive value through appropriate technical solutions; find innovative ways to leverage Syncade to drive business value.

Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering or related field
• Experience: Minimum 10 years of experience in MES
• Knowledge: Strong knowledge with distributed S95 Level 3 solutions, COTS software suppliers, and business intelligence; strong technical skills including infrastructure, interfaces and configuration capabilities
• Skills: Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, risk assessment, decision-making, and excellent communication and leadership skills
• Experience in Pharma and GMP Manufacturing

Additional Preferences

• Experience managing programs/projects in the pharmaceutical industry; startup experience for a new facility or clinical development manufacturing site
• Proven leadership in managing cross-functional teams
• Active participation in industry forums and standards organizations

Other Information

• Role is on-site, Monday through Friday; may require flexibility to support production schedules and occasional extended hours.
• Multiple positions; roles based in Indianapolis IN, Houston TX or Goochland, VA
• Approximately 5–10% travel