Director, Operational Excellence

Role Summary

The Director of Operational Excellence plays a pivotal role in shaping how the Technical Operations organization executes its work—through structured project delivery, standardized methodologies, and consistent operating mechanisms. This role drives operational effectiveness across global Tech Ops teams by implementing frameworks, governance models, and tools that ensure efficient execution of initiatives. Must have strong leadership in project portfolio management, cross-functional coordination, and operational frameworks.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership and oversight of the Technical Operations project portfolio, ensuring initiatives are effectively scoped, resourced, and executed in alignment with organizational priorities and long-term objectives.
• Establish and maintain operational governance frameworks that bring clarity to roles, responsibilities (e.g. RACI), and decision-making processes.
• Drive adoption of standardized methodologies and tools to ensure consistent execution across global teams.
• Serve as the central point of coordination for Technical Operations initiatives, driving progress, removing roadblocks, escalating critical issues, and ensuring on-time delivery of key commitments.
• Drive cross-functional collaboration across manufacturing, supply chain, quality, and other Tech Ops functions to ensure seamless execution and alignment.
• Monitor and report on key operational metrics, identifying risk areas and leading structured problem solving to ensure accountability for performance outcomes.
• Lead continuous improvement efforts by analyzing performance data, identifying bottlenecks, and recommending process enhancements.
• Support the development of operating rhythms that drive accountability and visibility into project progress and resource utilization.
• Prepare leadership meeting agendas suggesting topics, governance over resources, KPIs, and decision making.
• Collaborate closely with the PMO, Finance, and functional leaders to align on project planning, execution, and resource allocation.

Education

• Bachelor‚Äôs degree required; advanced degree (MBA, MS) preferred.

Experience

• 10+ years of experience in life sciences, biotech, or pharmaceutical operations, preferably in manufacturing, supply chain, or quality environments.

Skills

• Project or portfolio management, operational governance, and driving process consistency across large, matrixed organizations.
• Understanding of execution methodologies, project lifecycle management, performance tracking, and risk mitigation.
• Experience implementing governance structures (e.g., RACI, stage gates) and standardized delivery models.
• Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills, with ability to influence across levels and functions.
• Strong organizational and analytical skills, with ability to structure work, manage multiple priorities, and deliver under tight timelines.
• High attention to detail, operational discipline, and proactive problem-solving mindset.

Travel

• Up to 20% travel expected.