Director Operational Excellence & PMO Microbial Operations

Responsibilities

• Define and execute the Operational Excellence strategy across Microbial Operations to drive performance and competitiveness
• Lead continuous improvement initiatives using Lean Six Sigma, delivering measurable business impact across assets
• Establish and run a robust PMO framework, ensuring strong governance, prioritization, and execution of strategic initiatives
• Oversee the full project portfolio, ensuring clarity of scope, milestones, risks, resources, and benefits realization
• Partner with senior leadership to enable alignment, decision-making, and execution of cross-functional priorities
• Drive governance and planning processes including OE roadmaps, business reviews, and business continuity planning
• Build organizational capability by coaching leaders and embedding a culture of continuous improvement and accountability

Requirements

• Significant experience in manufacturing operations, operational excellence, or project/program management in a complex environment
• Strong expertise in Lean Six Sigma methodologies (Black Belt certification preferred)
• Proven ability to lead cross-functional initiatives and influence without formal authority
• Excellent project portfolio management and governance capabilities
• Strong strategic thinking combined with hands-on execution mindset
• Advanced communication and stakeholder management skills across senior leadership levels
• Degree in a relevant field (e.g., engineering, life sciences); postgraduate qualification preferred
• About Lonza
• Ready to shape the future of life sciences?

Additional Information

Director Operational Excellence & PMO - Microbial Operations The actual location of this job is in Visp, Switzerland. Relocation assistance is available for eligible candidates and their families, if needed. This role is based at our Visp manufacturing site and plays a critical role in driving operational excellence and strategic project delivery across the Microbial Operations network, directly impacting performance, innovation, and scalability. This role is primarily based on site. Working together in person supports close, real-time collaboration and the technical precision needed to manufacture medicines to the highest quality and safety standards. What you will get An agile career and dynamic working culture An inclusive and ethical workplace Compensation programs that recognize high performance A variety of benefits dependent on role and location The full list of our global benefits can be found here: https://www.lonza.com/careers/benefits

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