Director, Global Automation Engineering

Role: The Director of Global Automation Engineering leads AbbVie's enterprise-wide automation architecture, process control systems, and digital infrastructure, with full financial accountability for approximately $100 million annually. Main objectives include developing and executing the Factory of the Future automation strategy, ensuring enterprise standards, and supporting the global manufacturing network. Responsibilities encompass strategic automation leadership, overseeing automation scope and capital projects (with a portfolio exceeding $3 billion and automation spend of about $200 million), and governing automation systems across sites. The role involves defining technical specifications, vendor management, ensuring GxP compliance, data integrity, and cybersecurity, and integrating automation with enterprise digital platforms. It also includes building and leading a high-performing, globally distributed automation team, fostering a culture of excellence, and ensuring regulatory audit readiness. Qualifications required include a bachelor’s degree in Electrical, Chemical, or related engineering, with 20+ years of progressive automation experience in biopharma or pharma manufacturing, particularly biologics and small molecules. Extensive knowledge of process control technologies (DCS, PLC, SCADA), GxP regulations, and digital transformation initiatives is essential. Key stakeholders involve senior engineering leadership, manufacturing operations, regulatory bodies, and external vendors. The role is based in a global, enterprise context, with collaboration across multiple functions and external partners to drive automation innovation, compliance, and operational excellence.